Highly Active, Robust and Reusable Micro-/Mesoporous TiN/Si3N4 Nanocomposite-based Catalysts for Clean Energy: Understanding the Key Role of TiN Nanoclusters and Amorphous Si3N4 Matrix in the Performance of the Catalyst System

Abstract Herein, we developed a precursor approach toward the design of a titanium nitride (TiN)/silicon nitride (Si3N4) nanocomposite with activated carbon monolith as a support matrix forming a highly micro-/mesoporous component to be used as a Pt support for the catalytic hydrolysis of sodium borohydride (NaBH4) as a model reaction. The experimental data demonstrates that the amorphous Si3N4 matrix, the strong Pt-TiN nanocluster interaction and the synergistic effects between the three components contributed to the improved performance of the catalyst system. Thus, the use of this TiN/Si3N4 nanocomposite allowed to significantly reducing the noble metal loading (only ∼1 wt% of Pt) for the complete and fast dehydrogenation of NaBH4 under alkaline conditions at 80 °C. Additionally, the catalytic system displayed an excellent robustness and durability to offer reusability without collapsing and performance decrease under the harsh conditions imposed by the reaction.