Effects of Carbon Materials on Aluminum Hydroxide-Catalyzed Hydrogen Production from Aluminum-Water Reactions

This study reports on the catalytic enhancement of hydrogen production from aluminum-water reactions facilitated by carbon-modified aluminum hydroxide (Al(OH)3) synthesized using various carbon materials, including graphite, carbon black, and activated carbon black. Comparative analysis revealed that graphite and activated carbon black, in synergy with Al(OH)3, significantly boost hydrogen production rates. The study underscores the pivotal role of carbon material structure and surface properties in reaction efficiency. The results suggest that graphite and activated carbon black assist in the formation of a more active Al(OH)3 catalyst. Long aging time or high concentration of starting precursor result in an inferior catalytic power of Al(OH)3. Notably, a reduced activation energy of the Al/water reaction was obtained when graphite is incorporated with the Al(OH)3 catalyst.