A cost-effective NiMoB–La(OH)3catalyst for hydrogen generation from decomposition of alkaline hydrous hydrazine solution

Abstract

The synthesis of low-cost catalysts with favorable properties of both catalytic activity and hydrogen selectivity is highly desirable for developing a hydrous hydrazine-based hydrogen generation system. In this paper, we report the synthesis of a series of Ni-based catalysts using a simple chemical reduction method and their performance in promoting the decomposition reaction of hydrazine monohydrate (N₂H₄·H₂O). Our study found that the NiB catalyst possesses poor catalytic activity towards the decomposition of N₂H₄·H₂O. But upon incorporation of Mo and La elements, the catalytic performance of the resulting catalysts was remarkably improved for both catalytic activity and hydrogen selectivity. A combination of phase/microstructure/chemical state analyses was conducted to gain insight into the property improvement arising upon incorporation of a Mo or La element. The NiMoB–La(OH)₃ catalyst with an optimal composition enables rapid and complete decomposition of N₂H₄·H₂O with 100% H₂ selectivity in an alkaline solution at mild temperatures. The development of high-performance and noble-metal-free catalysts may promote the application of N₂H₄·H₂O as a promising hydrogen storage material.