Formation of one-dimensional MgH2 nano-structures by hydrogen induced disproportionation

Remarkable formation of one-dimensional single crystalline MgH2 structures in the nano- and micro-meters ranges is reported. These structures have been tailored by hydrogen absorption and subsequent disproportionation of bulk Mg24Y5. The MgH2 whiskers have been structurally and morphologically characterized by X-rays diffraction, scanning and transmission electron microcopies. A growth model is proposed for the early stage of the whiskers formation by combining surface chemical and morphological investigations. The formation of MgH2 whiskers opens new engineering explorations and challenges for further experimental and theoretical studies.