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Nano-enhanced solid-state hydrogen storage: Balancing discovery and pragmatism for future energy solutions

Journal Article · · Nano Research
 [1];  [2];  [1];  [3];  [2];  [1]
  1. Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (LBNL), Berkeley, CA (United States). Molecular Foundry
  2. Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (LBNL), Berkeley, CA (United States)
  3. Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL), Livermore, CA (United States)
Nanomaterials have revolutionized the battery industry by enhancing energy storage capacities and charging speeds, and their application in hydrogen (H2) storage likewise holds strong potential, though with distinct challenges and mechanisms. H2 is a crucial future zero-carbon energy vector given its high gravimetric energy density, which far exceeds that of liquid hydrocarbons. However, its low volumetric energy density in gaseous form currently requires storage under high pressure or at low temperature. This review critically examines the current and prospective landscapes of solid-state H2 storage technologies, with a focus on pragmatic integration of advanced materials such as metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), magnesium-based hybrids, and novel sorbents into future energy networks. These materials, enhanced by nanotechnology, could significantly improve the efficiency and capacity of H2 storage systems by optimizing H2 adsorption at the nanoscale and improving the kinetics of H2 uptake and release. We discuss various H2 storage mechanisms—physisorption, chemisorption, and the Kubas interaction—analyzing their impact on the energy efficiency and scalability of storage solutions. The review also addresses the potential of “smart MOFs”, single-atom catalyst-doped metal hydrides, MXenes and entropy-driven alloys to enhance the performance and broaden the application range of H2 storage systems, stressing the need for innovative materials and system integration to satisfy future energy demands. High-throughput screening, combined with machine learning algorithms, is noted as a promising approach to identify patterns and predict the behavior of novel materials under various conditions, significantly reducing the time and cost associated with experimental trials. In closing, we discuss the increasing involvement of various companies in solid-state H2 storage, particularly in prototype vehicles, from a techno-economic perspective. In conclusion, this forward-looking perspective underscores the necessity for ongoing material innovation and system optimization to meet the stringent energy demands and ambitious sustainability targets increasingly in demand.
Research Organization:
Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (LBNL), Berkeley, CA (United States); Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL), Livermore, CA (United States)
Sponsoring Organization:
USDOE National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA); USDOE Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE), Office of Sustainable Transportation. Hydrogen Fuel Cell Technologies Office (HFTO); USDOE Office of Science (SC), Basic Energy Sciences (BES)
Grant/Contract Number:
AC02-05CH11231; AC52-07NA27344
OSTI ID:
2439359
Alternate ID(s):
OSTI ID: 2448515
Report Number(s):
LLNL--JRNL-865268; 1099353
Journal Information:
Nano Research, Journal Name: Nano Research Journal Issue: 10 Vol. 17; ISSN 1998-0124
Publisher:
SpringerCopyright Statement
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English

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