Efficient hydrogen production from additive-free formic acid dehydrogenation using Pd nanoparticles on biomass-derived porous carbon

Abstract

Background

: By converting biomass into CO₂ and using green hydrogen to hydrogenate it, formic acid dehydrogenation (FAD) can produce a desirable, sustainable, and secure hydrogen carrier. However, synthesizing nanostructures on a large scale and economically remains a significant challenge.

Methods

: FAD was value-added using ultrafine, well-dispersed Pd nanoparticles (NPs) (3.61 nm) supported on N-doped hierarchical porous carbon (NHPC-150) catalyst synthesized from disposable bamboo chopsticks (DBCs).

Findings

: The interface between Pd NPs and NHPC-150 yielded an ultrahigh turnover frequency (TOF) of 23,496 mol_H2 mol_Pd⁻¹ h⁻¹ at 298 K (TOF value calculated for the first catalytic run), significantly boosting heterogeneous hydrogen production catalysis from additive-free FAD. As a result, eight wt.% Pd/NHPC-150 exhibits 100% conversion and 100% selectivity for CO-free FAD, maintaining its performance even 200 days of long-term stability. Furthermore, the synergistic interface between Pd NPs and NHPC-150 sites and the small-size effect of Pd NPs enhanced the catalytic activity and promotion of N-atom. This remarkable activity and stability may clarify and promote further research into high-performance catalysts, advancing the use of FA as a viable hydrogen carrier.