Sodium Borohydride (NaBH4) as a Maritime Transportation Fuel

Abstract

Hydrogen (H2) storage is one of the most problematic issues regarding the widespread use of hydrogen, and solid-state hydrogen storage materials are promising in this regard. Hydrogen storage by sodium borohydride (NaBH4) takes attention with its advantages and idiosyncratic properties. In this study, potentials and challenges of sodium borohydride are evaluated considering storage conditions, safety, hydrogen purity, storage capacity, efficiency, cost, and the maturity. Moreover, marine use of NaBH4 is demonstrated, and the pros and cons of the NaBH4 hydrogen storage method are stated. According to evaluations, whereas advantages can be sorted as fuel availability, fuel recyclability, mild storage conditions, exothermicity of reaction, pressure flexibility, and H2 purity, challenges can be sorted as high costs, catalyst deactivation, regeneration, and practical/technical implementation issues. The great potential of NaBH4 marine use (against road/aerial vehicles) is water availability, no need to carry all the required water for the entire journey, and reduced system weight/volume by this way.