Hydrogen Generation from Catalytic Hydrolysis of Sodium Borohydride Solution

Hydrogen generation (HG) from catalytic hydrolysis of sodium borohydride (NaBH4) solution is a promising integrated technology for on-board hydrogen storage/generation. In this paper, we present the principle of HG from NaBH4 solution, and review the current progresses in catalysts, reaction kinetics, reaction mechanism, design of reaction generator and recycle of hydrolysis production, and then discuss some remaining problems in the development of NaBH4-based HG system. Supported catalyst with high-activity and durability is desirable in developing the HG system for practical application. The design of hydrogen generator focuses on the utilization of reaction heat to preheat fuel, the recycle of water from the fuel cells and the technology of separation by the membrane. The highly efficient regeneration of NaBH4 can reduce its cost, thus promoting the commercial applications of the NaBH4-based HG system.