A research team from the University of Nottingham, in collaboration with other universities, has developed a novel catalyst for hydrogen generation from ammonia. The catalyst consists of nanosized ruthenium clusters anchored on graphitized carbon, enabling the breaking down of ammonia into hydrogen and nitrogen. The study, published in Chemical Science, showcases the catalyst's unique self-improving behavior, where ruthenium nanoclusters rearrange into truncated nano-pyramids to enhance hydrogen production by maximizing active sites. By employing magnetron sputtering, the researchers could fabricate a highly active catalyst, utilizing rare elements like ruthenium efficiently. The discovery of the catalyst's activity increasing over time challenges traditional deactivation processes, leading to the development of stable catalysts for hydrogen generation. The innovative approach of harnessing individual atoms to form clusters at the nanoscale ensures a high density of active sites on the catalyst's surface. This advancement in catalyst design offers a sustainable solution for green hydrogen production, supporting the transition to a zero-carbon future and contributing to energy technologies' development.