Researchers at United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) have developed a catalyst that combines desert sand, date-pit biochar and nickel for use in hydrogen production.
The material was tested in methane decomposition, achieving a methane conversion rate of 38% at temperatures between 500°C and 600°C. The researchers said the findings are an early indication of the catalyst’s potential, but further testing is needed to assess its performance over longer periods and whether it can be reused.
The study, published in the Journal of Alloys and Compounds, was conducted by teams from UAEU’s Departments of Chemical and Petroleum Engineering and Chemistry, in collaboration with Abu Dhabi Polytechnic.
The researchers tested 30 formulations before identifying an optimal mix of 15% nickel, 42.5% desert sand and 42.5% biochar. According to the team, the biochar helped spread the nickel more evenly, reduced particle clumping and increased the material’s porosity and surface area.
The catalyst also showed higher hydrogen adsorption capacity and better nickel dispersion than a sand-and-nickel version.
The work gives date pits, an abundant agricultural byproduct in the UAE and wider region, a potential role in clean-energy production. The researchers plan to study the catalyst’s durability, reusability and response to different operating conditions before assessing its practical applications.
Source: Fast Company Middle East
