Multi-functional Energy Storage Materials

Hydrogen is recognized as a potential and extremely interesting energy carrier, which can facilitate efficient utilization of unevenly distributed renewable energy. Furthermore, hydrogen has an extremely interesting chemistry and form compounds with most elements in the periodic table and with a variety of different types of bonds. Metal hydrides has recently become very interesting as new classes of energy materials for batteries and hydrogen storage. Here we report an overview of our recent results within new hydrogen containing materials: (i) synthesis of novel metal borohydrides and studies of their properties for hydrogen storage or as ion conductors, (ii) tailoring materials properties by anion substitution or neutral molecule derivatives, and (iii) in situ powder X-ray diffraction studies. We conclude that the chemistry of hydrides is very divers, towards multi-functional materials.