UAEU turns desert sand and date pits into green catalyst for hydrogen production

Researchers at the United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) have developed a catalyst for hydrogen production using desert sand, biochar from date pits, and nickel. This study, published in the Journal of Alloys and Compounds, highlights the transformation of local resources and agricultural waste into a material with applications in clean energy.

The research, conducted by UAEU's Departments of Chemical and Petroleum Engineering and Chemistry, in collaboration with Abu Dhabi Polytechnic, was supported by the University’s Research Funding Programme. The team aimed to enhance the catalytic properties of desert sand by combining it with biochar and nickel.

Through testing 30 formulations, the researchers found that biochar improved nickel dispersion and increased the material's porosity and surface area. The optimal formulation consists of 15% nickel, 42.5% desert sand, and 42.5% biochar, showing high hydrogen adsorption capacity and enhanced performance.

Initial tests demonstrated a methane conversion rate of 38% at 500-600°C, indicating the catalyst's potential in hydrogen production. Further studies will assess its long-term stability and efficiency.

Prof. Mohammed Noor Al Tarawneh from UAEU emphasized the study's significance in transforming local resources into advanced materials for clean energy. The methodology used could be applied to other metals and materials, promoting sustainable catalyst development.

Future research will focus on the catalyst's durability, reuse potential, and performance under various conditions, contributing to its scientific and practical applications. This work underscores UAEU's commitment to innovative solutions in clean energy and the circular economy.