Recent progress in porous catalysts for dehydrogenation of ammonia borane

Abstract

Hydrogen emerges as an alternative green energy carrier, replacing fossil fuels due to its high gravimetric energy density, pollution free nature, efficiency, and renewability. Ammonia borane (AB) possessing high hydrogen density (19.6 wt%) and excellent stability has been demonstrated to be efficient for hydrogen production through a solvolysis reaction using active catalysts. As efficient catalysts, porous materials enriched with high surface areas, abundant pore structures, and favorable transport properties have been used for AB solvolysis. Herein, we present a detailed review of the recent progress in porous materials applied as catalysts in AB solvolysis. The thorough analysis is summarized as unsupported porous metal catalysts—single-metal, bi-metal, and metal-based compounds and their composites and porous materials supported with metal catalysts—carbonaceous materials and noncarbon materials. A particular emphasis is placed on the synthesis strategies, structure/morphology, composition, catalytic performance, and reaction mechanisms underlying AB solvolysis. We figured out major challenges and future developments in advanced porous materials to be used as catalysts for efficient AB solvolysis. This review will provide constructive suggestions and strong inspiration for developing porous catalysts for energy-related applications.