Hydrogen is an excellent energy storage medium, especially in the context of an energy transition based on intermittent renewable energies. However, the problem of its storage and transport arises. Several technologies are currently being explored and the storage of hydrogen in solid materials is an option that has several advantages. Borohydrides, in particular those of alkaline metals, are stable solid materials allowing to store a significant quantity of hydrogen in mass proportion (19 wtH2% for LiBH4, 10 wtH2% for NaBH4). However, their use is still limited because of the very energy consuming synthesis and recycling.

We propose in this project to develop new methodologies to generate boron hydrides from hydrogen in order to immobilize the latter in solid materials for energy storage purposes. The transformation of B-X (X:O,Cl) bonds to their B-H equivalents is a real challenge due to the high affinity of boron with oxygen and the high hydricity of the target compounds which make them reactive hydride donors. Similar work has been described at the LCMCE and by other groups for the synthesis of hydrosilanes and relies on transition metal catalysts or boron-based organocatalysts.

This project will allow the PhD student to develop advanced skills in homogeneous catalysis, characterization of molecular complexes, and gas manipulation.

Translated with www.DeepL.com/Translator (free version)