A review on hydrogen generation from the hydrolysis of sodium borohydride

Hydrogen is a promising alternative energy source to conventional fuels, including fossil fuel. Thus, several methods were reported for the generation of hydrogen. This review provided a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of the publications that focus on the hydrolysis or hydrolytic dehydrogenation of sodium borohydride (NaBH4). Surveying articles in the literature showed a promising future for this technology, although some challenges lie ahead. The process can be reversible via the regeneration of the reaction by-product (NaBO2•2H2O or NaBO2•4H2O). The key parameters affecting the hydrolysis reaction of aqueous NaBH4 were also summarized. The analysis of the publications indicated that hydrogen production techniques need further investigations to be competitive and for renaissance of the current applications. This review also presented concerns behind the commercialization of the generation of hydrogen gas using the hydrolysis of NaBH4. Several materials have been reported for hydrogen generation, but thus far, no single material can simultaneously meet all the required criteria for mobile applications. Researchers and political decision-makers should manage the progress and open new channels for commercialization purposes. The hydrolysis of NaBH4 is promising for several applications, including material science, environmental fields, and energy-based applications.