Evaluation of Pd electroless films ability to be used as H-permeable anodes

The prospective ability of using thin Pd electroless films made of pure Pd and Pd–P alloys as hydrogen permeable anodes was evaluated by a comparative characterization of these materials. The morphology, structure and composition effect on their ability to adsorb and oxidize hydrogen in 0.1 M NaOH solution was investigated. The results revealed that pure Pd (prepared at low T) followed by Pd–P alloy (low P content) exhibit the highest activity to absorb and oxidize hydrogen. It was concluded that the Pd alloy amorphicity (brought by a low content of P) and the pure Pd core porosity (brought by a low deposition rate) are the main factors responsible for such behaviour. In acid medium, it was found that Pd alloy films hinder the hydrogen absorption.