Hydrogen release from ammonia borane and derivatives in the presence of a ruthenium complex incorporating cooperative PNP ligands

► A Ru-complex bearing cooperative PNP ligands shows unprecedented catalysis in the reversible dehydrogenation of BH3NH3. ► The barrier for H2 formation from NH3BH3 is strongly reduced by Ru-complex, and one additional H2 is produced. ► The Ru-catalyst can be used for H2 release from chemical hydrogen storage materials such as hydrazine and ammonia alane.