Volcano Plot for Bimetallic Catalysts in Hydrogen Generation by Hydrolysis of Sodium Borohydride

摘要

In the field of "hydrogen energy", sodium borohydride (NaBH4) is a potential hydrogen carrier able to release H-2 by hydrolysis in the presence of a metal catalyst. Our laboratory experiment focuses on this. It is intended for third year undergraduate students in order to have hands-on laboratory experience through the synthesis of Co-Cu catalysts, X-ray characterization, and catalytic tests to qualitatively illustrate the Sabatier principle (volcano plot). The experiments require minimal preparation and are simple and instructive. Students gain experience in handling H-2 and a better understanding of the current issues hindering the development of the "hydrogen economy".