Extraordinary catalytic effect of Laves phase Cr and Mn alloys on hydrogen dissociation and absorption

Certain Cr-Mn Laves phases show extraordinary catalytic effect on H2 dissociation. These alloys can rapidly absorb hydrogen at ambient pressure and temperature. These alloys can achieve absorption performance of those Pd surface-modified alloys. The activation of these alloys involves a hydrogen induced cracking mechanism. Cr and Mn upon alloying with lower valence metals benefit highly to H2 dissociation.