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German biologists develop safe and efficient hydrogen storage methods
Hydrogen, while promising as a clean energy source, faces significant challenges in storage and transportation. A breakthrough by German biologists has introduced a novel solution: an enzyme that acts as a highly efficient catalyst, converting hydrogen and carbon dioxide into formic acid. This discovery offers a safer and more practical method for storing hydrogen, and the findings were recently published in *Science*.
Formic acid is being explored as a viable intermediate for hydrogen storage. Instead of handling gaseous hydrogen directly, researchers are looking at using carbon dioxide to create formic acid through catalytic reactions. When needed, hydrogen can be released from formic acid via oxidation-reduction processes. Compared to gaseous hydrogen, formic acid is easier to store and transport, similar to traditional fuels. It can also release hydrogen on demand, such as in fuel cell applications. Scientists estimate that 75 liters of liquid formic acid could power a fuel cell vehicle for approximately 400 kilometers. Additionally, formic acid can even serve as a direct energy source for small electronic devices like mobile phones.
However, converting carbon dioxide into formic acid has traditionally required high temperatures, pressures, and chemical catalysts. Now, researchers at Goethe University Frankfurt have discovered a natural enzyme in the bacterium *Acetobacter wuxiense* that enables this reaction under much milder conditions. This enzyme acts as a highly efficient biocatalyst, making the process more sustainable and energy-efficient.
Professor Muller, one of the researchers involved, highlighted the potential of this enzyme: “It makes efficient hydrogen storage and release possible.†The team developed a biological system using the bacteria and filed a patent for their approach. By introducing nano-ions, they can control the reaction and optimize energy production. Moreover, they designed an alternative pathway that allows for the recovery of carbon monoxide generated during the process, preventing it from damaging fuel cells.
This development marks a major step forward in making hydrogen energy more accessible and practical for real-world applications. (Reporter: Li Shan)