| abstract |
A method is provided in which stoichiometrically proportions of solid alkali metal borohydride are reacted with solid hydrated alkali metal borate. Upon heating, the borohydride hydrolyzes to generate controlled amounts of hydrogen gas and solid by-products. Water for the reaction is stored and carried in the hydrated borate, which is a hydrate of the reaction's by-product. At a suitable temperature, the hydrate melts and releases sufficient water for hydrolysis of the borohydride to molecular hydrogen. |