ABSTRACT
Thermochemical processes utilize heat and chemical reactions for the release of hydrogen (H2) from organic materials, including fossil fuels and biomass. In some thermochemical processes, the combination of heat with closed-chemical cycles generates H2 from feedstock such as lignocellulosic biomass, plastics, and aquatic plants. Some of the major challenges facing renewable H2 production include the high-temperature requirements for biomass decomposition and water splitting as well as the correspondingly expensive thermal-resistant materials needed for these processes. An overview of the role of nanomaterials in mitigating these challenges is presented in this chapter, with emphasis placed on thermochemical water splitting, given its considerable promise. Generally, the application of nanomaterials (as catalysts) improves the overall thermochemical process efficiency. The specific improvement routes include a reduction of the high-temperature requirements, reduced tar formation, improved reactant conversion, and an increase in the H2 yield and stability over several cycles. This chapter further discusses some of the recent advancements in renewable nanomaterial-based thermochemical water splitting and highlights crucial challenges to be addressed for the large-scale uptake and commercial implementation of this H2 production route.
