Effects of Electroless Nickel on Hydrogen Absorption Properties of Zr-V-Fe Powders

Abstract

Nickel coated Zr-V-Fe non-evaporable getter (NEG) powders were prepared using electroless plating. The microstructure and composition of the Ni-coated Zr-V-Fe powders were analyzed by XRD, SEM and EDS. The hydrogen absorption performance of Ni-coated Zr-V-Fe powders and as-prepared powders were analyzed by dynamic method after an activation at 300°C for 2 hours. The hydrogen absorption performance of Ni-coated Zr-V-Fe powders and as-prepared powders at 100°C, 200°C, 300°C, 400°C, and 500°C were also analyzed. The results indicated that Ni existed as crystalline phase. The Ni coating played an important role as a catalyst which favored the dissociation of hydrogen on surface and Ni lowers the hydrogen diffusion energy for the Zr-V-Fe powders. The hydrogen absorption kinetics of Ni-coated Zr-V-Fe powders was improved in comparison with that of the as-prepared powders, and a relatively higher absorption rate was exhibited.