A stable Ni–B catalyst in hydrogen generation via NaBH4 hydrolysis

We provided a more stable and physically adhesive Ni–B catalyst onto a porous Ni support via a simple dipping-chemical reduction process without additional heat treatment. The morphology and the crystalline of the catalyst were found to be strongly dependent on the concentrations of Ni precursor and reductant. A steady-state production rate of hydrogen from NaBH4 is observed in the absence of mass loss of Ni–B catalyst and the activation energy of Ni–B for hydrogen production is comparable to that of other Ni composites.

Graphical abstractFigure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► Optimization of active Ni-B catalyst for hydrogen generation via NaBH4 hydrolysis. ► Highly adhesive Ni-B catalyst deposited onto a porous Ni foam support by simple dip-coating and chemical reduction processes. ► Unlike Co-B/Ni, no additional heat treatment needed. ► Much more stable than Co-B/Ni foam in an long-term operation.