M.L. Bosko

3.1 Electroless Plating of Pd Binary and Ternary Alloys and Surface Characteristics for Application in Hydrogen Separation

Electroless plating has been defined as a controlled autocatalytic deposition of a continuous layer on a catalytic surface by the reaction of a complex compound and a chemical reducing agent. This method allows the easy preparation of films using simple equipment and any type of support with low thickness. Palladium-based layers are able to separate hydrogen selectively because of the high solubility and diffusivity of hydrogen atoms in their lattice. The electroless deposition and characterization of Pd-based binary and ternary alloys are discussed taking into account their superior properties concerning hydrogen permeability and/or chemical resistance.