Effects of Cr, Zr, V, Mn, Fe, and Co to the hydride properties of Laves phase-related body-centered-cubic solid solution alloys

Chemical composition modifications of a Laves phase-related BCC solid solution base alloy, Ti15.6Zr2.1V44Cr11.2Mn6.9Fe2.7Co1.4Ni15.7Al0.3, were investigated in order to study the function of each constituent element on the structural, gaseous phase and electrochemical hydrogen storage properties of these alloys. In general, removal of Fe and decrease in V-content in exchange for higher Ni-content were found to improve both the electrochemical capacity and high-rate dischargeability, which are related to the decrease in C14-content and increase in TiNi-content. However, total elimination of the C14 phase by removal of Zr resulted in a reduced discharge capacity, a prolonged activation period, and a less catalytic surface for electrochemical reaction. Besides the BCC and C14 phases, the TiNi phase was also found in every alloy in this study, contributing positively to the bulk diffusion of hydrogen while hindering the surface electrochemical reaction.