Hydrogen electrosorption and structural properties of nanostructured Pd-Mg thin films elaborated by pulsed laser deposition

Mg-Pd films with different morphologies were prepared using the pulsed laser deposition (PLD) technique. Their structure and electrochemical hydriding behaviour were investigated. The gas (Ar or He) introduced into the PLD chamber has a strong influence on the resulting film structure. Mg films without MgO are obtained when using Ar or He gas at around 350 mTorr. The most promising geometry is obtained under He pressure and consists of a Pd-coated magnesium film with an extended Pd-Mg mixing region, which may increase the number of Pd-Mg interfaces. This film displays remarkable electrochemical hydriding properties in KOH solution. (c) 2005 Elsevier B.V. All fights reserved.