Recent advances in Co-based catalysts for enhanced hydrogen storage performance of MgH2: Mechanisms and strategies

Magnesium hydride (MgH₂) has emerged as a promising candidate for solid-state hydrogen storage due to its high theoretical capacity, reversibility, and abundance. However, its practical application is hindered by thermodynamic stability and slow kinetics. This review comprehensively examines the recent progress in Co-based catalysts for improving the hydrogen storage properties of MgH₂. We systematically analyze the effects of various Co-based catalysts, including Co monomers, oxides, alloys, and novel composites, on the dehydrogenation/rehydrogenation behavior of MgH₂. The underlying mechanisms of catalytic enhancement are explored through experimental observations and theoretical calculations. We highlight the synergistic effects of multi-component catalysts and the role of nanostructuring in optimizing catalyst performance. Furthermore, we discuss the challenges and prospects for future development of Co-based catalysts in MgH₂ systems, emphasizing the need for deeper mechanistic understanding and long-term cycling stability. This review provides valuable insights for rational design of highly efficient catalysts to advance MgH₂-based hydrogen storage technologies towards practical applications.