Exploration of hydrogen generation from an Mg–LiBH4 system improved by NiCl2 addition

A novel method to promote the Mg–H2O hydrolysis reaction is proposed. Among the hydrides tested, LiBH4 offers the best performance. By ball-milling Mg powder with LiBH4, the maximum hydrogen generation rate (mHGR) and yield are significantly increased. More importantly, the hydrolysis properties are further improved when NiCl2 is added. The newly formed Mg–LiBH4–NiCl2 system reaches an mHGR of 1655 ml min−1 g−1 and yield of 96.1%. The factors influencing the hydrogen generation performance of this system, such as sample composition and milling time, are investigated. Different methods of characterization, such as X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy are used for the preliminary mechanistic study. The milling conditions and the in situ deposition of metallic Ni are both believed to be important factors that benefit the overall hydrolysis process. •Novel effects of LiBH4 and NiCl2 on hydrolysis of Mg have been studied.•A synergistic effect between Mg and LiBH4 has been found primarily.•Milling time and sample composition are vital factors affecting the hydrolysis.•Effects of in situ deposition of Ni on the hydrolysis have been investigated.