UCLA

Given its high gravimetric energy density and status as a clean fuel when derived from renewables, hydrogen (H₂) is considered a premier candidate for energy storage; however, its low volumetric density limits its broader application. Chemical storage through the reversible incorporation of H₂ into chemical bonds offers a promising solution to its low volumetric density, circumventing subpar energy densities and substantial infrastructure investments associated with physical storage methods. Metal hydrides are promising candidates for chemical storage because of their high gravimetric capacity and tunability through nanostructuring and alloying. Moreover, metal hydride/H₂ interconversion may be interfaced with electrochemistry, which offers potential solutions to some of the challenges associated with traditional thermochemical platforms. In this Perspective, we describe anticipated challenges associated with electrochemically mediated metal hydride/H₂ interconversion, including thermodynamic efficiencies of metal hydride formation, sluggish kinetics, and electrode passivation. Additionally, we propose potential solutions to these problems through the design of molecular mediators that may control factors such as metal hydride solubility, particle morphology, and hydride affinity. Realization of an electrochemically mediated metal hydride/H₂ interconversion platform introduces new tools to address challenges associated with hydrogen storage platforms and contributes toward the development of room-temperature hydrogen storage platforms.