Eco-Friendly Green Synthesis of Co3O4-NiO Nano Catalysts From Papaver Somniferum Biomass for Efficient NaBH4 Hydrolysis: Advancing Circular Bioeconomy and Clean Hydrogen Energy Conversion

Abstract

Hydrogen generation via renewable and sustainable pathways is critical for clean energy transition and decarbonization efforts. In this study, we report the first-time development of a high-performance Co-Ni nanocatalyst synthesized through a green approach utilizing Papaver somniferum extract for efficient hydrogen generation via NaBH4 hydrolysis. The catalyst was comprehensively characterized using FTIR, XRD, FE-SEM/EDX, BET, TEM, and XPS, revealing its well-defined -morphological, structural, and compositional properties. The hydrogen generation rate (HGR) was optimized by systematically varying the catalyst loading, NaOH and NaBH4 concentrations, and reaction temperature. Under optimal conditions, the catalyst achieved a remarkable HGR of 2286.85 ml g(cat)(-1) min(-1) at 30 degrees C demonstrating superior catalytic efficiency compared to conventional Co-Ni catalysts. Kinetic analysis using the Langmuir-Hinshelwood model revealed an activation energy of 47.26 kJ mol(-1), a reaction rate order of 0.1 and an enthalpy change (Delta H) of -31.21 kJ mol(-1), highlighting the favorable thermodynamics of the reaction. FE-SEM analysis revealed a relatively uniform particle distribution, with an average size of similar to 200 nm and minimal agglomeration. The catalyst reusability studies demonstrated sustained activity over five consecutive cycles, confirming its long-term stability and practical viability for renewable hydrogen generation. These findings highlight the potential of green-synthesized nanocatalysts for sustainable hydrogen energy applications, particularly in fuel-cell technologies and hybrid renewable energy systems.