Electrosynthesis of thin films of Ni, Al hydrotalcite like compounds

Thin films of pure-nickel-based hydrotalcite-like compounds have been deposited on a Pt electrode by electrosynthesis. The best films have been obtained by cathodic reduction of a 0.03 M solution of Ni and Al nitrates in different molar ratios. The films, obtained in different experimental conditions, have been characterized by different techniques, such as SEM, AFM, and XRD. Particular attention has been devoted to understanding the mechanism of their growth. The electrochemical properties of the films obtained for different deposition times and Ni/Al ratios have been studied in basic solution (NaOH) by cyclic voltammetry and AC impedance spectroscopy.