FCH JU Bor4Store

Populærvitenskapelig rapport BOR4STORE follows an integrated, multidisciplinary approach for the development and testing of novel, optimised and cost-efficient boron hydride based H2storage materials with superior performance (capacity more than 8 wt.% a nd 80 kg H2/m3). The technical objectives of the project reflect an innovative and carefully designed strategy involving: i) new methods for the synthesis and modification of stable and unstable boron hydrides, ii) systematic and rationalized investigatio n of the effect of special catalysts and additives, and iii) adaptation of scaffolding concepts. In the 2nd part of the project, BOR4STORE will focus on integration of tanks based on these materials with a high temperature fuel cell, providing the necessa ry heat. Such a type of integrated system is targeted at stationary power supplies, e.g. for net independent telecommunication stations or island power supplies. During the first reporting period, various types of boron based hydrogen storage materials, ranging from novel pure boron hydrides like Mn(BH4)2 or Y(BH4)3 over bi- and trimetal boron hydrides and unstable compounds like Al(BH4)3 to Reactive Hydride (RHC) or Eutectically Melting Composites (EMC) have been synthesized. Furthermore, reaction steps during dehydrogenation and rehydrogenation of gamma-Mg(BH4)2 could be identified. By carefully controlling operating conditions, reversible H-sorption (2.5 wt.%) was achieved for gamma-Mg(BH4)2 for 3 desorption/absorption cycles. Finally, some EMC infilt rated in nanoporous materials exhibit, compared to the non-infiltrated material, significantly improved hydrogen capacity and cycling stability.