Metal-free dehydrogenation of formic acid to H₂ and CO₂ using boron-based catalysts.

ABSTRACT: Formic acid is at the crossroads of novel sustainable energy strategies because it is an efficient H₂ carrier. Yet, to date, its decomposition to H₂ relies on metal-based catalysts. Herein, we describe the first metal-free catalysts able to promote the dehydrogenation of formic acid. Using dialkylborane derivatives, HCOOH is decomposed to H₂ and CO₂ in the presence of a base with high selectivity. Experimental and computational results point to the involvement of bis(formyloxy)borates as key intermediates in the C-H bond activation of a formate ligand.

SUBMITTER: Chauvier C 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5655896 | biostudies-literature | 2015 May

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature