Hydrogen Production using Aluminum and Nano Modifiers

Abstract

The present research is focused on enhancement of hydrogen generation rate in well-known Al-H2O reaction by removing passive oxide layer (Al2O3) under ultrasonic field and varying temperature (40oC, 50oC , 60oC) various hydroxides (lithium hydroxide, calcium hydroxide) and nano modifiers (nickel oxide, manganese oxide, cobalt oxide). Lithium chloride was also tested but without milling it has no profound effect. These modifiers were tested in various ratios for better yield/production rate (aluminum to weight ratios, 1:1, 1:2, 1:3 and 1:4). The results revealed that aluminum powder easily reacted with degassed water in the presence of modifiers and hydrogen generation took place. The aluminum-water reaction was greatly influenced by initial water temperature, particle size and the kind of modifier used. Ultra sonic field also played an important role and increased hydrogen yield as well as generation rate.