Spatially resolved hydrogen desorption from aluminum hydride observed by magnetic resonance imaging

Light metal hydrides represent a promising class of materials for hydrogen storage. However, there are several technical challenges to overcome before their potential can be realized. Key among these is the often adverse absorption and desorption kinetics, which are a function of intrinsic reaction rates and practical operating temperatures. Modifying and controlling these kinetics require a thorough understanding of the hydrogen absorption and desorption processes. In this study, we have investigated the thermal decomposition of aluminum hydride, AlH3, with Magnetic Resonance Imaging in order to visualize spatially the progress and extent of the reaction.