Understanding the Problem of Hydrogen Storage Using a Demonstration: Coupling a Hydrogen Generator Based on the Hydrolysis of Sodium Borohydride to a Fuel-Cell Kit

Abstract

In the context of a green global energy paradigm, hydrogen (H 2 ) is a very promising energy carrier. In fuel cells, hydrogen can be used to generate electricity to drive an electric motor, producing water as its only byproduct. However, to implement hydrogen as an energy vector, developing methods for its production, storage, distribution, and use is essential. Sodium borohydride is a potential hydrogen source capable of releasing H 2 through catalytic hydrolysis. Herein, we present a demonstration that couples a hydrogen generator based on the hydrolysis of sodium borohydride to a commercial fuel-cell kit. The commercial fuel-cell kit operates using the hydrogen generated by an electrolyzer and includes a small fan to prove the successful generation of electricity. The performance of the fuel cell coupled with the borohydride-based reactor is compared to the performance achieved using the hydrogen produced by the electrolyzer. The borohydride-based reactor is designed to power the fan for 300 s and demonstrates efficient and safe hydrogen storage within a small volume of sodium borohydride. This study showcases the hydrogen cycle, the hydrogen storage problem, and the potential of sodium borohydride as a hydrogen storage material in a simple and useful way, contributing to science education and dissemination in the field of energy sustainability.