Synthesis and hydrogen storage properties of a single-phase magnesium borohydride Mg(BH4)2

Abstract

A single phase Mg(BH4)2 was successfully synthesized and its hydrogen storage properties were systematically investigated. Depending on the synthesis conditions, Mg(BH4)2 forms low- and high-temperature phases with different crystal structures. The dehydriding reaction of Mg(BH4)2 starts at approximately 500 K. and 14.4mass% of hydrogen is released through a multi-step reaction. Furthermore 6.1 mass% of hydrogen can be rehydrided for the sample of Mg(BH4) 2 after the dehydriding reaction, through the formation of a possible intermediate compound such as MgB12H12. © 2008 The Japan Institute of Metals.