Modifying the surface of a hydrogen permselective palladium–silver membrane

Abstract

Thin films of Pd–23% Ag composition are obtained by means of magnetron sputter deposition. The surfaces of the films are modified via the electrolythic deposition of finely divided palladium. The hydrogen permeabilities of samples of membranes (both smooth and modified with palladium black) are compared. A marked increase in the hydrogen permeability of the modified membrane is observed, compared to the smooth membrane. The dependence of the rate of hydrogen fluence on the excess pressure is approximated by a curve of the first order, demonstrating the limitations of the process of hydrogen permeation by hydrogen superficial dissociation.