Macroeconomics

Engineering

Oxide

Yield (engineering)

Metallurgy

Materials science

Sodium hydroxide

Layer (electronics)

Economics

Aluminum oxide

Inorganic chemistry

Chemical engineering

Hydroxide

Hydrogen

Nanotechnology

Organic chemistry

Process engineering

Environmental science

Production rate

Chemistry

Aluminium

Hydrogen production

Production (economics)

Energy & Fuels

This comprehensive review paper compares the different methods developed experimentally to produce hydrogen by reacting aluminum and water. The alumina oxide layer which forms on the exterior surface of aluminum inhibits the reaction from taking place. Therefore, this paper presents a variety of techniques used to eliminate the oxide layer so that the reaction can continuously take place. The review paper aims to evaluate these techniques by comparing the hydrogen yield and maximum hydrogen production rate. On the basis of the analyses conducted, it was identified that the addition of hydroxide promoters, such as NaOH and KOH, is highly beneficial. This was also evident in the various studies where yields greater than 99% are achieved. Additionally, it is determined that the addition of NaCl or KCl to ball-milled samples of aluminum can be extremely advantageous when examining the maximum hydrogen production rate. For instance, an experimental sample composed of 2% NaCl was able to achieve a maximum hydrogen production rate of 1140 mL/min. Furthermore, numerous other studies are discussed by considering their specific advantages and disadvantages.

A Review of Unique Aluminum–Water Based Hydrogen Production Options