Electroless-deposited Co–P catalysts for hydrogen generation from alkaline NaBH4 solution

Cobalt–phosphorus (Co–P) catalysts, which were electroless deposited on Cu sheet, have been investigated for hydrogen generation from alkaline NaBH4 solution. The microstructures of the as-prepared Co–P catalysts and their catalytic activities for hydrolysis of NaBH4 are analyzed in relation to pH value, NaH2PO2 concentration, and the deposition time. Experimental results show that the Co–P catalyst formed in the bath solution with pH value of 12.5, NaH2PO2 concentration of 0.8 M, and the deposition time no more than 6 min presents the highest hydrogen generation rate of 1846 mL min−1 g−1. Furthermore, the as-prepared catalyst also shows good cycling capability and the corresponding activation energy is calculated to be 48.1 kJ mol−1. The favorable catalytic performance of the electroless-deposited Co–P catalysts indicates their potential application for quick hydrogen generation from hydrolysis of NaBH4 solution.