Hydrogen fuel is often heralded as the key to a clean-energy future, offering high energy density and zero carbon emissions when consumed. Despite these advantages, one of the major obstacles in the commercialization of hydrogen-powered technologies remains the challenge of efficient storage and controlled release of hydrogen. SBH has attracted attention for its impressive hydrogen content and ease of hydrogen release upon hydrolysis, but current catalytic methods typically depend on platinum and other precious metals, whose high cost and limited availability hinder widespread adoption.

The team at MANA, led by Dr. Yusuke Ide, targeted this crucial bottleneck by revisiting and refining green rust, an iron hydroxide mineral characterized by its mixed-valence iron states. Historically, green rust’s intrinsic instability and reactivity had precluded its practical application in catalysis, yet these very properties prompted a reevaluation under the hypothesis that such behavior could be harnessed beneficially. The scientists synthesized green rust particles and treated them with a copper chloride solution, leading to the formation of nanoscale copper oxide clusters precisely at particle edges.

This strategic modification is pivotal, as the copper oxide clusters introduce highly active catalytic sites that dramatically enhance the material’s ability to dehydrogenate SBH efficiently. What makes this catalyst exceptional is the synergistic effect between the green rust’s innate properties and the copper oxide clusters — green rust’s layered structure not only facilitates electron transfer but also actively absorbs sunlight, which it channels via the copper centers to substantially elevate catalytic performance under light irradiation.

Rigorous experimental studies verified the catalyst’s exceptional turnover frequency, matching or surpassing traditional precious metal-based catalysts. Its robustness was equally impressive, demonstrating stability and sustained catalytic efficiency across multiple reaction cycles. Such durability addresses one of the critical industrial requirements for catalysts to withstand continuous operation without degradation, thereby supporting scalability.

Notably, the catalyst operates effectively at ambient conditions, which simplifies integration into practical hydrogen generation systems and reduces the energy input required compared to high-temperature or high-pressure catalytic approaches. Because the green rust–copper oxide catalyst system is simple to produce and based on earth-abundant materials, it could deliver substantial cost savings and environmental benefits compared to conventional precious metal catalysts.

The research also intersects with ongoing developments in SBH production technologies that aim to generate this promising hydrogen storage chemical via energy-efficient, low-cost pathways. The combined improvements in storage medium production and catalytic hydrogen liberation hence hold great potential for real-world applications, such as hydrogen fuel cells aboard ships and vehicles.

Dr. Ide highlighted the transformative potential of this approach, emphasizing its alignment with emission-free mobility goals. “We expect that our catalyst will be used for hydrogen fuel cells in many onboard applications like cars and ships. This will hopefully lead to various forms of emission-free mobility,” he stated, underscoring the broader impact that scalable hydrogen technology could have on decarbonizing transportation sectors reliant on fossil fuels.

Beyond catalysis, this work exemplifies the innovative spirit of nanoarchitectonics—the deliberate design of functional materials on the nanoscale to achieve properties tuned for specific applications. MANA’s focus on nanoarchitectonics as a research paradigm has enabled multidisciplinary exploration and breakthroughs such as this, advancing the frontiers of materials science with significant societal implications.

As the global energy landscape shifts towards sustainability and reduced environmental impact, breakthroughs like the green rust–copper oxide catalyst ideally position hydrogen as an accessible and practical energy vector. The ability to generate hydrogen on demand from stable storage materials like SBH, using catalysts free of precious metals, represents a crucial step towards the establishment of a robust hydrogen economy.

Moreover, this research was published in the esteemed journal ACS Catalysis on July 18, 2025. The article titled “A Catalyst for Sodium Borohydride Dehydrogenation Based on a Mixed-Valent Iron Hydroxide Platform” presents detailed experimental findings and mechanistic insights into the catalytic process, affirming the catalyst’s promise for widespread adoption.

This discovery not only advances fundamental understanding of mixed-valent iron hydroxides as catalytically active platforms but also sets a precedent for future exploration of abundant mineral-based catalysts in energy applications. As hydrogen continues to attract investment and innovation, such transformative catalysts will be central to overcoming economic and operational barriers to hydrogen fuel technologies.

Looking ahead, integration of this catalyst into existing hydrogen storage and fuel cell technologies could accelerate deployment timelines, especially in sectors like maritime transport where onboard hydrogen generation reduces dependence on high-pressure storage infrastructure. Continued interdisciplinary research combining material chemistry, nanotechnology, and catalysis will be vital to optimize performance and ensure compatibility with commercial hydrogen systems.

In conclusion, the green rust–modified copper oxide catalyst stands as a beacon of hope in the global endeavor to harness hydrogen’s potential. By democratizing and economizing hydrogen generation, this advancement steers us closer to a future where clean, efficient, and sustainable energy is accessible to all.

Subject of Research: Not applicable

Article Title: A Catalyst for Sodium Borohydride Dehydrogenation Based on a Mixed-Valent Iron Hydroxide Platform

News Publication Date: 18-Jul-2025

References: DOI: 10.1021/acscatal.5c01894

Image Credits: Credit: Dr. Yusuke Ide from Research Center for Materials Nanoarchitectonics

Keywords

Hydrogen storage, Chemical engineering, Chemistry, Physical sciences, Applied sciences and engineering, Materials science, Physics, Materials engineering, Material properties, Environmental chemistry, Industrial chemistry

Turquoise hydrogen, a relatively new form of hydrogen, is produced through methane pyrolysis, a process that not only generates hydrogen but also yields solid carbon as a byproduct. Unlike conventional methods that emit carbon dioxide (CO₂), this green technology stands at the forefront of sustainable energy solutions, aligning seamlessly with global carbon neutrality goals. By focusing on hydrogen production without CO₂ emissions, this breakthrough addresses the pressing need for cleaner energy sources in an era increasingly defined by climate change and environmental degradation.

The research conducted by the KRICT team revealed that selenium-doped molten metal catalysts, specifically Nickel-Bismuth (NiBi) and Copper-Bismuth (CuBi), exhibit remarkable improvements in methane pyrolysis efficiency. These catalysts demonstrate high methane conversion rates, ensuring not only the production of hydrogen but also the stability needed for long-term sustainable reactions. By overcoming challenges associated with traditional solid catalysts—like requiring high temperatures or frequent catalyst deactivation—this new approach has the potential to accelerate the adoption of clean hydrogen technologies.

One of the pivotal advancements in this research is the development of a ternary molten metal catalyst that includes selenium. This integration not only heightens catalyst activity but also optimizes bubble formation during the chemical reaction. The distinct advantage of molten metal catalysts lies in their liquid state, which facilitates efficient separation of solid carbon byproducts and maintains stable reactions over prolonged periods. This liquid form also allows for enhanced performance because the continuous movement and interaction of the molten state prevent carbon deposition, a common issue that leads to solid catalyst failure.

Selenium plays a critical role in this innovative approach. It reduces the surface tension of the molten metal catalysts, significantly increasing the contact area between reactant gases and the catalyst itself. This amplification in contact enhances the efficiency of the methane conversion process, thereby facilitating a higher yield of hydrogen. More pertinently, selenium lowers the activation energy needed for methane conversion, enhancing the overall catalytic performance. The results show a marked increase in the availability of nickel active sites on the catalyst’s surface, which are crucial for effective methane decomposition.

The findings revealed that the addition of selenium reduces the surface tension of NiBi-based catalysts by approximately 19%. As a result, the formation of smaller bubbles is achieved, which in turn increases the contact area between the catalyst and reactant gases. The innovative selenium-promoted ternary catalysts, namely NiBiSe and CuBiSe, exhibited methane-to-hydrogen conversion efficiencies that surpassed traditional catalysts, with improvements of 36.3% and 20.5%, respectively. Such substantial enhancements promise a more effective method for hydrogen production that could potentially meet the growing global demand for clean energy solutions.

Another significant achievement of this research is the exceptional long-term stability demonstrated by the NiBiSe catalyst, maintaining consistent performance for over 100 hours. This stability is crucial for commercial applications, as it alleviates concerns related to catalyst longevity and operational efficiency during industrial processes. Being able to maintain stable catalytic performance over extended periods not only enhances the attractiveness of this technology but also provides a reliable foundation for future commercial applications.

The implications of this research extend beyond laboratory results; the team anticipates that this breakthrough could dramatically expedite the commercialization of clean hydrogen production methodologies. Planning for the future, further research will aim to enhance process efficiency and target commercial deployment by the year 2030. Such advancements are vital in transitioning from conceptual research to actual implementation in the fight against climate change and global warming.

The researchers’ optimism stems from their belief that the integration of selenium into molten metal catalysts effectively addresses the critical limitations of existing turquoise hydrogen production technologies. Their innovative work is expected to play a substantial role in contributing to global carbon neutrality efforts, aligning with international objectives to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. As governments and industries worldwide seek sustainable solutions, this technology stands out as a core innovation capable of reshaping the hydrogen production landscape.

Dr. Yeong-Kuk Lee, President of KRICT, emphasized the significance of this technology, characterizing it as a fundamental breakthrough for achieving carbon-free turquoise hydrogen production. The strategic implications of incorporating selenium into molten metal catalysts could indeed facilitate a transition towards a more sustainable energy paradigm, aligning research efforts with the pressing global need for clean energy solutions.

Conducting diligent research with government support, KRICT remains a driving force in advancing chemical technologies since its inception in 1976. The institute’s forward-thinking vision is dedicated to addressing some of the most pressing challenges in chemistry and engineering, furthering the development of innovative solutions that benefit not just South Korea but the global community. This pioneering research on selenium-promoted catalysts exemplifies KRICT’s commitment to contributing to the development of efficient and sustainable chemical technologies.

This significant study has been published in the esteemed journal Applied Catalysis B: Environmental and Energy, underscoring its scientific relevance and potential impact on the field. Led by Dr. Seung Ju Han in collaboration with Dr. Jeong-Cheol Seo of the Korea Institute of Industrial Technology, this research exemplifies a collective effort towards advancing technology that supports ecological and industrial advancements. The findings highlight the crucial integration of interdisciplinary approaches in addressing energy challenges that are critical in our pursuit of sustainability.

The research attracted support from KRICT’s core research program and the National Research Foundation of Korea’s Carbon Upcycling Platform Compounds Research Project, illustrating a national commitment to fostering innovation within the realm of chemistry and energy. As the urgency for clean energy alternatives grows, the importance of research efforts such as these cannot be overstated, as they pave the way for future solutions that promise efficiency and sustainability in hydrogen production.

As the world grapples with climate issues, technologies like the selenium-promoted molten metal catalysts developed by KRICT may emerge as key players. The strides made in this field showcase not only the potential for advancements in hydrogen production but also the broader implication of integrating innovative materials into established processes to create more sustainable systems.

In a climate-conscious world, the research conducted by KRICT stands as a beacon of hope, demonstrating that science and technology can unite for the greater good, spearheading initiatives aimed at achieving environmental sustainability. Such pioneering work will inspire further inquiry and development, potentially leading to a future where clean hydrogen production is not just an ideal but a reality.

Subject of Research: Selenium-promoted molten metal catalysts for turquoise hydrogen production
Article Title: Selenium-promoted molten metal catalysts for methane pyrolysis: Modulating surface tension and catalytic activity
News Publication Date: 31-Dec-2024
Web References: DOI link to the published article
References: N/A
Image Credits: Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology (KRICT)

Keywords

Selenium, molten metal catalysts, turquoise hydrogen, methane pyrolysis, clean energy, KRICT, hydrogen production, sustainability.