Metal-free dehydrogenation of formic acid to H2 and CO2 using boron-based catalysts

Abstract

Formic acid is at the crossroads of novel sustainable energy strategies because it is an efficient H2 carrier. Yet, to date, its decomposition to H2 relies on metal-based catalysts. Herein, we describe the first metal-free catalysts able to promote the dehydrogenation of formic acid. Using dialkylborane derivatives, HCOOH is decomposed to H2 and CO2 in the presence of a base with high selectivity. Experimental and computational results point to the involvement of bis(formyloxy)borates as key intermediates in the C-H bond activation of a formate ligand.