Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 10, 2026

Synthesis of Metal Nanoparticles Supported on Carbon Nanotube with Doped Co and N Atoms and its Catalytic Applications in Hydrogen Production
Published on: December 6, 2021
Effect of the surface oxidation of LiBH(4) on the hydrogen desorption mechanism
Shunsuke Kato1, Michael Bielmann, Andreas Borgschulte
1Laboratory for Hydrogen & Energy, Empa Materials Science and Technology, Uberlandstrasse 129, 8600 Dübendorf, Switzerland.
Abstract:
The surface oxidation behavior of LiBH(4) and NaBH(4) was investigated in view of the formation and structure of the surface oxidation and its effect on the hydrogen desorption kinetics. The sample surfaces were intentionally modified by exposure to oxygen in the pressure range from 10(-10) mbar up to 200 mbar. The induced surface changes were systematically studied by means of X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. NaBH(4) shows a low reactivity with oxygen, while LiBH(4) oxidizes rapidly, accompanied by surface segregation of Li. The hydrogen desorption kinetics of LiBH(4) were studied by thermal desorption spectroscopy with particular emphasis on the analysis of the desorbed gases, i.e. diborane and hydrogen. The surface oxidation induces the formation of a Li(2)O layer on LiBH(4), significantly reduces the desorption of diborane, and enhances the rate of hydrogen desorption.
Related Concept Videos
Regioselectivity and Stereochemistry of Hydroboration
Hydroboration proceeds in a concerted fashion with the attack of borane on the π bond, giving a cyclic four-centered transition state. The –BH2 group is bonded to the less substituted carbon and –H to the more substituted carbon. The concerted nature requires the simultaneous addition of –H and –BH2 across the same face of the alkene giving syn stereochemistry.
Radical Substitution: Hydrogenolysis of Alkyl Halides with Tributyltin Hydride
The bonds formed in this reaction are stronger than the bonds broken, making it energetically favorable. The reaction follows a radical chain mechanism similar to radical halogenation reactions,...
Hydroboration-Oxidation of Alkenes
Heterogeneous Catalysis
Catalysis
Catalysis

