Researchers turn common mineral ‘green rust’ into catalyst for hydrogen cars, ships

Japanese researchers have developed a breakthrough hydrogen storage catalyst using "green rust," a common iron hydroxide mineral, treated with copper chloride to create highly active sites for hydrogen production. The modified catalyst efficiently releases hydrogen from sodium borohydride at room temperature without expensive precious metals like platinum, while utilizing solar energy to boost reaction rates. Performance tests show the catalyst matches or exceeds traditional platinum-based materials in hydrogen generation while maintaining excellent durability. This cost-effective innovation could accelerate hydrogen fuel cell adoption in transportation, supporting the global transition to clean energy.