Abstract: The technology provides apparatus and methods for generating hydrogen without applying electrical energy from an outside source. An exemplary apparatus has an outer housing having an interior divided into an upper portion and a lower portion separated by a septum. The lower portion contains an electrolyte and a composite electrode at least partially immersed in the electrolyte. The electrolyte includes zinc hydroxide dissolved therein. The composite electrode has an aluminum tube enclosing at least one magnet. An outer surface of the electrode housing is at least partially covered with nano-particles held in place by magnetic attraction of the at least one magnet to form the electrode. The magnetically-adherent nano-particles form a second electrode, in direct contact with the first electrode. The generator apparatus has a vent in communication with the upper portion of the interior of the outer housing for removal of generated hydrogen.

Abstract: Cells and methods of producing hydrogen and oxygen from an aqueous solution at about 90% of the Faraday Limit are provided. An exemplary method includes the steps of placing a graphite electrode and a nickel electrode in an alkaline solution comprising colloidal silver, colloidal magnesium and a powdered metal such as aluminum, and applying a constant positive voltage to the nickel electrode. Further, the example includes cyclically applying a negative voltage potential to the graphite electrode by turning on the negative applied voltage for a first time period and switching off the negative voltage for a second time period. The second time period should be sufficient to permit removal of substantially all or at least some of any aluminum or zinc deposited on the graphite electrode. Graphite-containing electrodes may be pretreated to infuse with a precious metal.