Issue 8, 2025

High-performance hydrogen generation via activated Al–Bi2Se3 composite materials

Abstract

Al-based composites have emerged as promising hydrogen generation materials due to their high yield and low cost, yet slow hydrogen generation kinetics have impeded their widespread application. In this study, a series of novel Al–BixMy composites were synthesized via high-energy ball milling, with the Al–15 wt% Bi2Se3 composite demonstrating superior hydrogen generation performance. Achieving an unprecedented catalytic efficiency at ambient conditions, this composite reached a maximum hydrogen generation (MHG) rate of 1139 mL g−1 min−1 and completed hydrogen generation within 5 min with a 97.6% conversion yield. Through comprehensive characterization using X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), in situ Se and Bi were found on the fresh Al surface. Density functional theory calculations (DFT) elucidated the mechanism by which Bi doping enhances water adsorption and the cleavage of O–H bonds. These findings provide important insights for the design of high-performance Al-based hydrogen generation materials with improved kinetics and efficiency.

Graphical abstract: High-performance hydrogen generation via activated Al–Bi2Se3 composite materials

Supplementary files

Article information

Article type
Paper
Submitted
27 nóv. 2024
Accepted
20 jan. 2025
First published
03 feb. 2025

New J. Chem., 2025,49, 3140-3146

High-performance hydrogen generation via activated Al–Bi2Se3 composite materials

H. Li, L. Liao, T. Zhou, K. Ren, S. Han and T. Zhu, New J. Chem., 2025, 49, 3140 DOI: 10.1039/D4NJ05117C

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