Electrochemical hydrogen storage and usage aspects: Nickel electrode in acidic electrolyte

The conditions of electrochemical formation of nickel hydride are investigated. The electrochemical properties of different nickel-based materials (bulk, porous, foamed tapes) are examined to state the hydrogen adsorption/absorption phenomena and possibility to use them as a negative electrode in hydrogen devices (electrolyzers, rechargeable batteries, fuel cells). Surface activation of nickel materials are made by electroplating and etching methods. Thin palladium coating is used to prove the formation of nickel hydride during cathodic charging. Volt-amperometric and kinetic measurements show that not only palladium, but also activated nickel plays important role in the surface activation of electrode materials and promotion of hydrogen absorption in nickel substrate materials.