Highly active, robust and reusable micro-/mesoporous TiN/Si3N4 nanocomposite-based catalysts for clean energy: Understanding the key role of TiN nanoclusters and amorphous Si3N4 matrix in the performance of the catalyst system

An effective and robust TiN/Si3N4 nanocomposite-based catalyst via a precursor approach for boosting hydrogen production from hydrides [Display omitted] •Micro-/mesoporous TiN/Si3N4 nanocomposites with BET SSA as high as 1300 m2/g.•First demonstration of the catalytically activity of amorphous Si3N4.•Strong metal-TiN nanocluster interaction to boost hydrogen generation from NaBH4.•Excellent durability and reusability under harsh conditions. Herein, we developed a precursor approach toward the design of a titanium nitride (TiN)/silicon nitride (Si3N4) nanocomposite with an activated carbon monolith as a support matrix forming a highly micro-/mesoporous component to be used as a Pt support for the catalytic hydrolysis of sodium borohydride (NaBH4) as a model reaction. The experimental data demonstrated that the amorphous Si3N4 matrix, the strong Pt-TiN nanocluster interaction and the synergistic effects between the three components contributed to the improved performance of the catalyst system. Thus, the use of this TiN/Si3N4 nanocomposite allowed to significantly reducing the noble metal loading (only ∼1 wt% of Pt) for the complete and fast dehydrogenation of NaBH4 under alkaline conditions at 80 °C. Additionally, the catalytic system displayed an excellent robustness and durability to offer reusability without collapsing and performance decrease under the harsh conditions imposed by the reaction.