Preparation of Co0.5Cu0.5/CNR catalyst and its performance in hydrogen production by hydrolysis of ammonia borane

Abstract

Cobalt nitrate and copper nitrate was mixed to prepare solution A. Phenyldicarboxylic acid and N,N-dimethylformamide was mixed to prepare solution B. Co/Cu Lavashield skeleton series materials (Co/Cu-MIL precursors) was then synthesized by mixing the above two solution via solvothermal method. The precursor was further carbonized to produce the MOFs derivatives, i.e. bimetallic carbon nanorods (Co_xCu_1–x/CNR) catalysts. The morphology and composition of the catalysts were explored by SEM, TEM, XRD, XPS and other characterization means. The results showed that Co_xCu_1–x/CNR was successfully obtained after calcination of Co/Cu-MIL at high temperature. The activity of the catalyst was optimal when x=0.5, the solvothermal temperature of 120 °C and the calcination temperature of 650 °C. The TOF value of the Co_0.5Cu_0.5/CNR catalyst for the hydrolysis of ammonia borane for the production of hydrogen was 2718.21 h^–1 with activation energy of 51.64 kJ/mol. The catalyst had good cyclic stability. Although the activity decreased, the conversion of AB still maintained 100% after 10 cycles.