Preparation for defect-free self-supported Pd membranes by an electroless plating method

Self-supported Pd membranes were prepared by an electroless plating method, where the membranes were separated from substrate without any damage by introducing Pd-containing sacrificial layer followed by Pd nanoparticles activation, plating and mild removal. The thickness of the obtained membranes was less than 10 μm. The area was wider than 48 cm2. Hydrogen permeation test was carried out for effective area of 2.98 cm2. No other gas except hydrogen was detected in the permeation side by a gas chromatograph when gas mixture including H2, CO and CO2 was introduced into the feed side. The permeability of an obtained membrane was the same as the value of bulk Pd.

Research highlights▶ The thickness of the membranes was less than 10 μm. ▶ Production yield for defect-free membranes is nearly 100%. ▶ Complete hydrogen selectivity was confirmed by a gas chromatograph.