Nanoengineering-Enabled Solid-State Hydrogen Uptake and Release in the LiBH4 Plus MgH2 System

LiBH4, as a potential material with the highest reversible hydrogen storage capacity for hydrogen vehicle applications, has always been hydrogenated and dehydrogenated in the liquid state. In this study, we demonstrate, for the first time, that 8.3 wt% hydrogen uptake can be obtained from the LiBH4 + MgH2 system in the solid state through nanoengineering and mechanical activation. Hydrogen release, although slower than uptake, can also be attained in the solid state. All of these enhancements are achieved without any catalysts, which underscores the effectiveness of nanoengineering and mechanical activation as well as the opportunity for further improvements in the future.