Liquid organic hydrogen carrier (LOHC), based on silane-alcohol mixtures

Hydrogen is a gas with high energy capacity and zero greenhouse gas emissions. Its combination with atmospheric oxygen produces energy and water as the only byproduct, making it one of the leading candidates to replace fossil fuels

as a clean energy source. However, hydrogen is not found in the Earth's crust and is produced mainly in a non-sustainable process using non-renewable fossil substances. Furthermore, it is highly flammable and must be transported compressed, which entails significant safety risks. Liquid hydrogen carriers (LHCs) allow for hydrogen storage, safe transport, and rapid and efficient release. We present an LHC based on a chemical coupling reaction between a hydrosilane and an alcohol, which occurs at room temperature with the aid of catalysts, in a reversible and non-polluting manner. This LOCH avoids the current safety risks arising from hydrogen storage as well as the generation of emissions in means of transport.