Unlocking the potential of borophene nanoribbons for efficient hydrogen storage

This research explores the structural, electronic, optical, and hydrogen storage properties of borophene nanoribbons (BNRs) with armchair (ANR-B-H) and zigzag (ZNR B-H) edges. Computational simulations optimized these structures, revealing that 7ZNR-B-H has a superior binding energy. Chemical modifications, such as fluorine passivation and functionalization, influenced bond parameters and quantum properties. Bilayer BNRs showed increased stability and enhanced electrical conductivity. Our study demonstrated promising hydrogen storage capabilities, with passivated and functionalized BNRs achieving suitable adsorption energies and a significant gravimetric storage capacity of 20.32 wt%, exceeding DOE standards. NH₂ functionalization notably improved adsorption energy, enhancing potential for efficient hydrogen storage. Changes in absorption spectra post-H₂ adsorption further highlight BNRs’ potential for hydrogen storage applications. These findings provide valuable insights into BNRs, paving the way for their use in electronic devices and hydrogen storage systems.