Hydriding properties of a mechanically milled Mg-50 wt.% ZrFe1.4Cr0.6 composite

The ball-milling method was used to produce Mg-50 wt.% ZrFe1.4Cr0.6 composi te. The thermodynamic, kinetic, and cycling properties, as well as the resi stance to oxidation were examined. This composite possesses excellent kinet ic properties, even at moderate temperature. Scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive spectrum transmission electron microscopy and X-ray diffr action were used to characterize the composite before and after hydriding. The fine ZrFe1.4Cr0.6 particles covering Mg particles acting as a "catalyti c film", a significant amount of imperfections and some alloy powder in the Mg matrix introduced by ball milling all contributed to the enhanced absor ption/desorption rate. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science S.A. All rights reserved.