MnCo2O4 film composed of nanoplates: synthesis, characterization and its superior catalytic performance in the hydrolytic dehydrogenation of ammonia borane

Abstract

Catalytic hydrolysis of ammonia borane is regarded as a safe and efficient way to produce hydrogen, which has received much attention in the fields of energy and catalysis. However, the development of heterogeneous catalysts with both high catalytic performance and low cost for this hydrolytic reaction is still a great challenge. In this work, we have developed a novel catalyst for the hydrolysis of ammonia borane, viz. a Ti-supported nanostructured MnCo₂O₄ film composed of nanoplates with a thickness of 10–20 nm, which is then characterized using an X-ray powder diffractometer, field emission scanning electron microscope, elemental mapping and X-ray photoelectron spectrometer. In the hydrolysis of ammonia borane catalyzed by the as-prepared nanostructured MnCo₂O₄ film, the turnover frequency can reach 24.3 mol_hydrogen min⁻¹ mol_cat⁻¹, which is much higher than those of most noble-metal-free catalysts reported in the literature. More importantly, the film catalyst can retain 96% of its original activity after 7 cycles, demonstrating its high stability and good reusability. Considering its high activity, good reusability and low cost, the nanostructured MnCo₂O₄ film can be a promising catalyst towards the hydrolytic dehydrogenation of ammonia borane for hydrogen production.