One-compartment electrochemical H2 generator from borohydride

A one-compartment membrane-less electrochemical H2 generator from borohydride was realized using a Rh porphyrin and RuO2 as the anode and cathode, respectively. H2 generation from this cell was successfully controlled electrochemically by varying the potential applied. The regulation of H2 generation was based on the selectivity of the anode and cathode. We found that RuO2 exhibits H2O electro-reduction activity without electro-oxidation or chemical decomposition of borohydride, and used the catalyst as a selective cathode in the electrochemical H2 generator. Anode and cathode potentials of the electrochemical H2 generator were measured separately. The both potentials were discussed in terms of the catalytic activities of a Rh porphyrin and RuO2.