KINETICS OF H(D)-ABSORPTION IN PD CATHODES

An experimental set-up has been built up to follow the hydrogenation ( deuteration) kinetics of Pd cathodes during their electrochemical load ing in galvanostatic conditions. Several Pd sheets have been loaded at different current densities in 600 mi of aqueous solution of 0.1 M Li OH. The electrolyte temperature and cathode potential against a platin um wire immersed in the same solution have been recorded during the lo ading process. X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy and ene rgy dispersive analyses of X-rays were used in sample characterization . The H-absorption rate has been found to depend on current density, o n the other hand the H/Pd reached was approximate to 0.55 in all the e lectrolysis accomplished. A brief discussion is made on the kinetic as pects of the absorption process and the role played by the Pd surface.