Alkali Metal-Silicide
Produce High-Pressure Hydrogen From Water
An abundant energy resource, hydrogen (H2) has been considered as a potential energy carrier, but it has yet to reach its full commercial potential and applicability. Currently generated from non-renewable petroleum and natural gas, H2 could, with an appropriate energy source, be generated from renewable resources such as water. Since H2 gas is energy rich compared to gasoline on a per-weight basis, but relatively poor on a volumetric basis, large volumes of H2 gas must be stored and transported for direct use with a H2 fuel cell.
SiGNa has developed a new low-temperature method for stabilizing alkali metal-silicide powders that can be used as a simple means of instantaneous and quantitative H2 generation from its reaction with water. The byproducts of this reaction are environmentally benign, producing alkali metal silicates, a major component of toothpaste. The materials are free-flowing, amorphous, gray-black particles that are easily handled and used in dry air. They do not react with oxygen and they absorb moisture from air slowly without ignition. These advantageous properties combine to make these materials convenient sources for H2 in quantitative yield.
Product Advantages
- Yield:
- Produces more than 9 wt.% hydrogen upon reaction with water
- Kinetics:
- Produces clean hydrogen gas instantly and controllably from water
- Ease of Use:
- Does not use expensive catalysts
- Safety:
- Does not ignite spontaneously in air and does not react with oxygen gas
- Byproducts:
- Generates environmentally-friendly, non-toxic waste
- Cost:
- Uses inexpensive starting materials
Typical Reactions
SiGNa Spotlight
New Discoveries
Currently SiGNa is working on the next element in the alkali metal family, Lithium. A number of new discoveries have been made. Read More