In some of the transition metal hydrides, hydrogen is absorbed as H-atoms. Due to the inclusion of H- atoms, the metal lattice expands and thus becomes less stable. Therefore, when such metallic hydride is heated, it decomposes to release hydrogen gas and very finely divided metal. The hydrogen evolved in this manner can be used as a fuel. Thus, transition metals or their alloys can act as sponge and can be used to store and transport hydrogen to be used as a fuel.