Microwave-assisted synthesis of MgH2 nanoparticles for hydrogen storage applications
Robinson Aguirre Ocampo, Julian Arias-Velandia, J.A. Lenis, Alejandro Zuleta, Sindy Bello, Esteban Correa, Carlos E. Arrieta, F.J. Bolívar, Félix Echeverría
Abstract
Abstract Magnesium’s high storage capacity, with a theoretical value of about 7.6 wt.%, makes it a viable candidate for hydrogen storage. However, slow kinetics and strong thermodynamic stability lead to a rather high desorption temperature, usually above 350 °C. It has been demonstrated that nanosizing magnesium-based materials is a successful strategy for simultaneously improving the kinetic and thermodynamic characteristics of MgH 2 during hydrogen absorption and desorption. MgH 2 nanoparticles were obtained by microwave assisted synthesis. To the best of our knowledge, synthesis of MgH 2 nanoparticles by this method has not been reported. It was possible to produce MgH 2 nanoparticles smaller than 20 nm. MgO and Mg(OH) 2 were also present in the produced nanoparticles, although these compounds may enhance the processes involved in the release and absorption of hydrogen.