Preparation and hydrogen sorption performance of a modified Zr–C getter

A modified Zr–C getter with the addition of LaNi5 was prepared through the powder metallurgy technology. Effects of the activation condition and the gas pressure on the getter surface on the hydrogen sorption performance of the getter were studied. The results show that at room temperature, the hydrogen sorption performance of the modified Zr–C getter even after activation at a lower temperature of 700 °C for 30 min is superior to that of the conventional Zr–C getter after activation at 850 °C for 10 min due to the catalytic effect of Ni. The high-temperature activation for a short time could bring the modified Zr–C getter better sorption performance at room temperature than the lower-temperature activation for a longer time. Increase in the gas pressure on the surface of the getter (Pg) helps to improve the quantity absorbed. The above-mentioned results are explained reasonably from the viewpoints of gas adsorption and diffusion.