The hydrogen cycle with the hydrolysis of sodium borohydride: A statistical approach for highlighting the scientific/technical issues to prioritize in the field

• Statistical analysis of the 2000–2013 literature on NaBH4 hydrolysis is proposed.
• There is an imbalance of efforts dedicated to different aspects of this reaction.
• Catalysis is not a critical issue anymore and there are already viable solutions.
• Recycling of borates merits more interest, particularly to address the cost issue.
• Scale-up is imperative to validate the technological potential of NaBH4 hydrolysis.

The 2000–2013 literature (through 260 research articles) dedicated to the field of “the hydrogen cycle with hydrolysis of sodium borohydride” was statistically analyzed. The objectives were (i) to emphasize the imbalance of the efforts dedicated to different aspects of the hydrogen cycle, (ii) to highlight the scientific/technical issues to prioritize from now on, and (iii) to revive an image tarnished since 2007. The statistical analysis was performed in terms of form and content. With respect to the form, it stands out for example that: the principal journal in the field is International Journal of Hydrogen Energy; the Chinese institutions are the most active; Turkey is also much involved while the most abundant reserves of boron can be found in this country. In terms of content, it is shown that there is unequivocal imbalance in the efforts dedicated to e.g. catalysis, borates recycling and scale-up. Huge attention has been focused on catalysis. The other topics were somehow neglected. Catalysis is not a critical issue anymore. Hence, recycling definitely merits much more interest, particularly to address the cost issue. A potential solution to explore is suggested herein. Scale-up is also imperative as it is the only way to demonstrate the technological potential of “the hydrogen cycle with hydrolysis of sodium borohydride”, to which one can optimistically believe. All of these aspects, among others, are discussed herein.

Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slide