A cost-effective NiMoB–La(OH)3 catalyst for hydrogen generation from decomposition of alkaline hydrous hydrazine solution

The synthesis of low-cost catalysts with favorable properties of both catalytic activity and hydrogen selectivity is highly desirable for developing a hydrous hydrazine-based hydrogen generation system. In this paper, we report the synthesis of a series of Ni-based catalysts using a simple chemical reduction method and their performance in promoting the decomposition reaction of hydrazine monohydrate (N2H4·H2O). Our study found that the NiB catalyst possesses poor catalytic activity towards the decomposition of N2H4·H2O. But upon incorporation of Mo and La elements, the catalytic performance of the resulting catalysts was remarkably improved for both catalytic activity and hydrogen selectivity. A combination of phase/microstructure/chemical state analyses was conducted to gain insight into the property improvement arising upon incorporation of a Mo or La element. The NiMoB–La(OH)3 catalyst with an optimal composition enables rapid and complete decomposition of N2H4·H2O with 100% H2 selectivity in an alkaline solution at mild temperatures. The development of high-performance and noble-metal-free catalysts may promote the application of N2H4·H2O as a promising hydrogen storage material.