Facile synthesis and characterization of nano-Pd loaded NiCo microfibers as stable catalysts for hydrogen generation from sodium borohydride

Abstract Development of low-cost and high-efficiency catalysts for hydrogen generation represents the significant challenge for realizing hydrogen economy. NiCo and nano-Pd loaded NiCo microfibers with high surface area has been successfully developed by electrospinning and following vacuum thermal treatment. Towards hydrogen generation, the catalyst exhibits efficient TOF as high as 350 and 680 mL min-1 gcat-1 for NiCo and nano-Pd loaded NiCo microfibers, providing superior performance compared with the most promising reported catalysts. The excellent catalytic activity remain above 90% confirming the remarkable durability. The insights uncovered here inspire and guide the rational design of advanced catalysts for the rapidly developing hydrogen energy applications.