Investigating reaction conditions and kinetics for hydrogen production through boric acid catalysed methanolysis of potassium borohydride

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This study explores hydrogen production via methanolysis of potassium borohydride (KBH4) catalysed by boric acid (H3BO3) amidst growing demand for sustainable energy. It focuses on optimising reaction conditions to efficiently maximise hydrogen output. Parameters examined include reaction temperatures (20, 30, 40, 50°C), H3BO3 concentrations (53.9, 107.8, 161.7, 269.5 mM), methanol volumes (2, 5, 7, 15, 20 mL), and KBH4 concentrations (0.124, 0.247, 0.371, 0.618 M), assessing their impact on hydrogen generation rates (HGRs). Kinetic analysis shows the reaction follows a power law mechanism with a reaction order of 0.5 for KBH4, indicating a significant concentration dependency. The study identifies activation energies of 37.24 and 32.54 kJ·mol−1, providing insights into the energy barrier of the reaction, and finds optimal conditions at 30°C, achieving a remarkable HGR of 3154.98 mL·min−1·g cat−1. ΔG°, ΔHads and ΔS° were also determined, further elucidating the reaction dynamics.