Converting biowaste to activated carbon for improved hydrogen storage: An experimental investigation

This study investigates the potential utilization of maple leaf wastes for hydrogen storage purposes experimentally and evaluates their hydrogen storage performance under various thermal conditions. It aims to derive the activated carbon uniquely from waste sources. This approach contributes to sustainable biomass valorization and reduces environmental hazards associated with uncontrolled disposal. In this regard, the biochar undergoes pyrolysis and NaOH activation to enhance its porosity and surface area. The SEM, EDS, and BET analyses characterize the material, and the BET results show a specific surface area of 16 m 2 /g. The gravimetric analysis evaluates the hydrogen adsorption capacities at 0 °C and 25 °C temperatures, from 1 to 4 kPa pressures, and 1 to 6 g of adsorbent amounts. The material reaches a maximum gravimetric capacity of 0.37 wt% at 0 °C, 4 kPa, and 6 g. The electrochemical tests, including LSV, CV, and GCD in 1 M KOH, assess its electrochemical behavior and yield a capacity of 4.52 μAh/g. These experimental results demonstrate that maple leaf-derived activated carbon shows promising hydrogen storage performance, while supporting safer hydrogen storage by reducing pressure hazards and fire risks.