Enhancing hydrogen storage performance of magnesium-based materials: A review on nanostructuring and catalytic modification

• The review comprehensively details recent advancements in nanostructuring techniques, illustrating how these approaches significantly enhance the hydrogen storage performance of magnesium-based materials by improving hydrogen absorption and desorption kinetics. • The review examines the role of various catalysts, including carbon-based materials, transition metals and alloys, and their composites, in lowering hydrogen absorption and desorption temperatures, thus improving the overall efficiency of magnesium-based hydrogen storage materials. • The review identifies current challenges and proposes future research directions, emphasizing the importance of theoretical modeling and the need for innovative solutions to address issues such as thermal conductivity, scaling, and practical application with fuel cells. Magnesium-based hydrogen storage materials are gaining significant attention due to their high hydrogen storage capacity and abundant availability. However, they encounter challenges, including slow hydrogen absorption and desorption kinetics and elevated operating temperatures. To address these issues, researchers have employed two main strategies: nanostructuring and the introduction of catalysts. This review provides a comprehensive overview of recent advancements in the modification of MgH 2 , emphasizing the impact of nanostructuring on enhancing hydrogen storage performance. It also examines the role of various catalysts, including carbon-based materials, transition metals and alloys, their oxides and halides, and composites, in improving hydrogen absorption and desorption characteristics. Studies indicate that these modifications can substantially lower the hydrogen absorption and desorption temperatures while enhancing kinetic performance. Furthermore, the effectiveness of catalysts is influenced by their type, dispersion, and interaction with magnesium-based materials and the catalytic mechanism, thereby elucidating the underlying catalytic mechanisms. The review concludes by discussing the current challenges and future directions in this field, aiming to provide theoretical insights for the practical application of magnesium-based hydrogen storage materials.