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Hydrogen has emerged as a disruptive force in the energy landscape, poised to revolutionise the automotive sector with its use in both fuel cell and internal combustion engines. This article covered two topics: application of metal hydrides for hydrogen storage and use of cutting-edge engine technology in hydrogen-powered vehicles. This article begins with discussing the different characteristics of materials that are used to store hydrogen. Metal hydrides, rare earth elements, and carbon-based compounds are among the materials that are carefully studied in this work. Understanding how effectively these materials can store hydrogen was another goal of this research. In order to fully utilize hydrogen's potential, it is imperative to compare them with conventional fossil fuels highlighting their significance. Additionally, this study explains how hydrogen can be used to power existing and newer automobile vehicles. Also discussed are the viability and potential mechanisms of operation for various hydrogen-using engine technologies, such as compression ignition and spark ignition engines. Cutting-edge on vehicles with fuel cell and engine technology powered by hydrogen along with their challenges are explained. They include discussions of several techniques such as homogenous charge compression ignition (HCCI), dual-fuel, and reactivity-controlled combustion ignition (RCCI). Additionally, the advantages and disadvantages of utilizing hydrogen in these state-of-the-art engine technologies are discussed. This research offers insights on the future of automobiles in addition to hydrogen storage. This study points the path towards a more creative and sustainable energy environment in which hydrogen plays a major role in the storage and utilization for automobile vehicles. • Hydrogen transforms energy storage, promoting sustainability and innovation. • Research enhances nanostructured materials for hydrogen storage. • Hydrogen in IC engines explores dual fuel, HCCI, and RCCI. • Strategies like EGR and injection reduce hydrogen emissions. • Hydrogen shapes sustainable transportation solutions globally. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbon steel piping and tubing can be degraded by hydrogen uptake. The hydrogen permeation method is commonly applied to testing and qualification steel in response to hydrogen atom diffusion. Cyclic voltammetry (CV) has recently been proposed because it is a more straightforward method than permeation. A comprehensive study was conducted to investigate whether these two methods are comparable. A model alloy of SA 210 grade was studied. The study involved preparing specimens with varying microstructures through different heat treatments. Subsequently, metallographic analysis was conducted on each microstructural variation, followed by mechanical testing to evaluate the changes obtained before and after the hydrogen absorption test. The CV method consisted of three steps: CV before H absorption to search for a reference voltammogram, H charging, and CV after H absorption to determine the after-charge voltammogram. Electrochemical hydrogen permeation tests were performed in a Devanathan–Stachursky double cell. A comparison of the CV and permeation methods revealed that they show pretty similar results in evaluating the interaction between steel and hydrogen. Permeation methods provide quantitative results, while CV offers more qualitative insights. Both methods show that the quenched steel has the slowest hydrogen diffusion rate compared with those in normalized and base material conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrogen absorption in transition metals has received enormous attention for applications such as the hydrogen storage, sensing and corrosion. In particular, the Pd‐H system is a simple and classical metal hydride system that serves as a platform for a deeper understanding of hydrogen behavior. In the past few years, Pd‐H has been reported as electrocatalyst in multiple reactions, whereas the impact of hydrogen absorption/desorption in electrocatalytic applications remains unclear. Therefore, in this concept, factors influencing the hydrogen adsorption/desorption of palladium in the gas phase, such as facet engineering, ligand effects, and alloying effects, are summarized. Subsequently, in the context of electrocatalysis, factors affecting electrochemical hydrogen adsorption/desorption are outlined. Particularly, prospects for the further investigation of electrochemical hydrogen adsorption/desorption in catalysis are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper presents the results of non‐destructive testing examinations, metallographic tests and risk assessment of degradation related to corrosion of amine regeneration unit in a desulphurisation system. Intensive corrosion resulting from acid gases environment upon water condensation causes perforation of the pipeline. Detailed analysis reveals cracking related to the mechanism of wet H2S. Hydrogen penetration, resulting from the wet H2S process, causes a decrease in mechanical properties of steel and an increase in hydrogen content inside steel. Corrosion results mostly from high stream velocity, the presence of acid gases (with high ammonia content), the presence of amine and low stream temperature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cathodic processes in initial stages of atmospheric corrosion of rolled zinc and bare, Al–Si and Zn–Fe coated press hardened steel were studied. A ratio between hydrogen evolution and oxygen reduction reactions was evaluated using the manometric respirometry technique. Hydrogen evolution reaction proceeded on all studied materials, providing from 7 to 27 % of the cathodic current. The content of diffusible hydrogen in steel was low indicating that hydrogen recombination was highly efficient and only a minor part of produced hydrogen absorbed into the materials. The efficiency of hydrogen recombination is thus expected to control the hydrogen entry process. • Respirometry is suitable for studies of cathodic processes in atmospheric corrosion. • Hydrogen evolution reaction proceeded on all studied materials. • Only low amounts of diffusible hydrogen found in steel structure. • Hydrogen recombination is significantly more efficient compared to absorption. • Hydrogen formation on zinc enhanced in CO 2 -free atmosphere. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we investigate the effect of small amounts of zirconium alloying the medium-entropy alloy (TiVNb)85Cr15, a promising material for hydrogen storage. Alloys with 1, 4, and 7 at.% of Zr were prepared by arc melting and found to be multiphase, comprising at least three phases, indicating that Zr addition does not stabilize a single-phase solid solution. The dominant BCC phase (HEA1) is the primary hydrogen absorber, while the minor phases HEA2 and HEA3 play a crucial role in hydrogen absorption/desorption. Among the studied alloys, Zr4 (TiVNb)81Cr15Zr4 shows the highest hydrogen storage capacity, ease of activation, and reversibly retrievable hydrogen. This alloy can absorb hydrogen at room temperature without additional processing, with a reversible capacity of up to 0.74 wt.%, corresponding to hydrogen-to-metal ratio H/M = 0.46. The study emphasizes the significant role of minor elemental additions in alloy properties, stressing the importance of tailored compositions for hydrogen storage applications. It suggests a direction for further research in metal hydride alloys for effective and safe hydrogen storage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metal hydride storage system (MHSS) has been widely used mostly because of its large storage capacity and high degree of safety. The improvement of the heat transfer performance is one of possible techniques to enhance the overall MHSS performance. The well arrangement of the heat exchanger structure from a semi-cylindrical coil heat exchanger with central return tube (SCHE-CR) significantly reduces the hydrogen absorption duration. However, the modelling of the thermal behaviour for the SCHE-CR during desorption process is missing in the literature. Therefore, this study aims to develop a model for both hydrogen absorption and desorption processes and analyse the thermal performance during the cycle. Phase change material (PCM) is incorporated with the heat exchanger for further improvement of the MHSS performance. The storage is designed under three different PCM configurations, including PCM jacket, pool bed, and capsule. The numerical results report that the duration of the absorption-desorption cycle is reduced by over 50% when using SCHE-CR instead of a helical coil. The PCM configurations, especially the PCM capsule, increase the MHSS performance, especially during the absorption. The duration of one cycle is decreased by at least 39% when combining the SCHE-CR with PCM. The HTF temperature significantly affects the MHSS performance, especially during the desorption. Reduction in HTF temperature reduces the absorption duration by at least 15%, while increasing the HTF temperature reduces the desorption duration by at least 25%. The new MHSS configuration would be beneficial to enhance the heat exchange during the absorption-desorption cycle of industrial MHSS applications. • A novel method for faster hydrogen storage. • 31% reduction of duration for one complete cycle. • PCM capsule improved hydrogen charging and discharging time. • 39% reduction of complete cycle, using capsule PCM. • Significant reduction of hydrogen desorption, under fluid temperature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, the hydrogen storage properties of the MmNi 4.6 Al 0.4 and MmNi 4.6 Fe 0.4 compounds are compared experimentally and theoretically. The experimental curves of the activation process, experimental isotherms of absorption and the Van't Hoff's plot were first investigated. Following that, a theoretical model is contrasted with the experimental data. The mathematical equations of this model contain parameters, such as the number of hydrogen atoms per site (n 1 , n 2), the densities of the receiving sites (N 1m , N 2m), and the energy parameters (P 1 , P 2). All these parameters are obtained by numerically adjusting the experimental data. Depending on the applied temperature, the relevant parameters of the suggested model were identified and described. Entropy, internal energy, and other thermodynamic variables that govern the absorption reaction were all calculated and displayed as a function of pressure and temperature. • Measurement of hydrogen absorption isotherms by MmNi 4.5 Al 0.4 and MmNi 4.6 Fe 0.4 compounds. • Validation of experimental data by a mathematical model using statistical physics. • Determination of the steric parameters governing the absorption reaction. • Calculation of the thermodynamic functions of the absorption reaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Hydrogen absorption in transition metals has received enormous attention for applications such as the hydrogen storage, sensing and corrosion. In particular, the Pd‐H system is a simple and classical metal hydride system that serves as a platform for a deeper understanding of hydrogen behavior. In the past few years, Pd‐H has been reported as electrocatalyst in multiple reactions, whereas the impact of hydrogen absorption/desorption in electrocatalytic applications remains unclear. Therefore, in this concept, factors influencing the hydrogen adsorption/desorption of palladium in the gas phase, such as facet engineering, ligand effects, and alloying effects, are summarized. Subsequently, in the context of electrocatalysis, factors affecting electrochemical hydrogen adsorption/desorption are outlined. Particularly, prospects for the further investigation of electrochemical hydrogen adsorption/desorption in catalysis are discussed.

Hydrogen sorption characteristics of 5 kg-LaNi 5 reactor featuring conical fins and heat transfer tubes is experimentally studied at various water flow rates (V s :2.5, 5, 7 LPM), inlet temperatures (T s :30, 25, 20 °C), hydrogen pressures (P s :10, 15, 20, 25 bar). Higher V s , P s , and lower T s yield faster absorption through higher driving force (∝ln (P s / P eq), P eq : equilibrium pressure). Ninety percent absorption takes ∼12.3 and ∼13.7 min at V s :7 and 2.5 LPM (P s :15 bar, T s :30 °C). Faster atmospheric desorption needs higher T s and/or V s offering higher driving force (∝ (1-(1/ P eq)). 90% desorption takes ∼20.1 and ∼21.8 min for initial bed temperatures of 60 and 30 °C, (V s :5 LPM, T s :60 °C). Absorption of this 'Single Reactor' and five/ten (25/50 kg) such reactors in series and parallel are studied numerically. Series configuration stores five/ten-times hydrogen than 'Single Reactor' within the same duration by doubling/tripling V s (same P s , T s). Parallel configuration requires proportional water supply. H 2 storage reactor with internal 12 conical fins+4 tubes is experimentally studied. Absorption by 5 kg LaNi 5 under various operating parameters are compared. Atmospheric Desorption for different initial bed temperatures are observed. 5/10 reactors in series requires 2/3 times water flow rate to match performance. Parallel requires proportional water flow rate but facilitates uniform absorption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of corrosion status of zinc coating on the hydrogen absorption behavior was investigated. Dry-wet corrosion test was conducted after applying NaCl solution to the zinc coated steel sheets. The permeating hydrogen during the corrosion test was measured by electrochemical technique. It was found that the hydrogen permeation was not observed at early stage of corrosion while significant hydrogen permeation was observed at middle stage of corrosion. Then, the hydrogen permeation decreased gradually at later stage of corrosion. In order to clarify the mechanism of this behavior, surface morphologies of corroded specimens were analyzed by Electron Probe Micro Analyzer. It was found that the hydrogen permeation was observed when the steel substrate was partially appeared, indicating that galvanic corrosion is related to the hydrogen permeation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A hydride of Yb2Pd2Sn could be synthesized with approximately 2 H atoms per f.u. The hydrogenation leads to a volume expansion while preserving the tetragonal symmetry (P4/mbm). The lattice reaction is strongly anisotropic, and the 5% expansion in c is partly compensated by the 0.5% compression in a. The hydride is paramagnetic at least down to 0.5 K. Yb remains at or very close to the 3+ (4f13) state, as in Yb2Pd2Sn. Specific heat C/T vs. T shows an upturn existing already in Yb2Pd2Sn, but it is much more pronounced in the hydride (1.8 J/mol f.u. K2 for T → 0, i.e., more than twice higher than in its precursor). This is interpreted as lowering the Kondo temperature due to H bonding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A hydrogen permeable Nb43W5Ti27Co20Fe5 alloy membrane was designed and its microstructure and hydrogen transportation performances were systematically studied. W mainly dissolves into primary body-centered cubic (bcc)-(Nb) phases, while Fe is captured in eutectic structures. Substituting Nb with W leads to a substantial reduction in hydrogen solubility and substituting Co with Fe negligibly affects hydrogen solubility. The W and Fe substitutions contribute to an enhanced intrinsic hydrogen diffusion coefficient D∗. The designed Nb43W5Ti27Co20Fe5 alloy membrane exhibits lower hydrogen solubility and higher hydrogen permeability at temperatures below 623 K than that of the original Nb48Ti27Co25 alloy membrane. No hydrogen-induced failures were found for the designed Nb43W5Ti27Co20Fe5 alloy membrane during cooling to room temperature and under long-term hydrogen permeation at 673 K for 72 h, whereas the original alloy membrane failed at 444 K during cooling to room temperature and after 19 h during hydrogen permeation at 673 K. The designed Nb43W5Ti27Co20Fe5 alloy membrane exhibits high hydrogen permeability and strong resistance to hydrogen embrittlement.

In this study, we investigate the effect of small amounts of zirconium alloying the medium-entropy alloy (TiVNb)85Cr15, a promising material for hydrogen storage. Alloys with 1, 4, and 7 at.% of Zr were prepared by arc melting and found to be multiphase, comprising at least three phases, indicating that Zr addition does not stabilize a single-phase solid solution. The dominant BCC phase (HEA1) is the primary hydrogen absorber, while the minor phases HEA2 and HEA3 play a crucial role in hydrogen absorption/desorption. Among the studied alloys, Zr4 (TiVNb)81Cr15Zr4 shows the highest hydrogen storage capacity, ease of activation, and reversibly retrievable hydrogen. This alloy can absorb hydrogen at room temperature without additional processing, with a reversible capacity of up to 0.74 wt.%, corresponding to hydrogen-to-metal ratio H/M = 0.46. The study emphasizes the significant role of minor elemental additions in alloy properties, stressing the importance of tailored compositions for hydrogen storage applications. It suggests a direction for further research in metal hydride alloys for effective and safe hydrogen storage.

Considering the clean, renewable, and ecologically friendly characteristics of hydrogen gas, as well as its high energy density, hydrogen energy is thought to be the most potent contender to locally replace fossil fuels. The creation of a sustainable energy system is currently one of the critical industrial challenges, and electrocatalytic hydrogen evolution associated with appropriate safe storage techniques are key strategies to implement systems based on hydrogen technologies. The recent progress made possible through nanotechnology incorporation, either in terms of innovative methods of hydrogen storage or production methods, is a guarantee of future breakthroughs in energy sustainability. This manuscript addresses concisely and originally the importance of including nanotechnology in both green electroproduction of hydrogen and hydrogen storage in solid media. This work is mainly focused on these issues and eventually intends to change beliefs that hydrogen technologies are being imposed only for reasons of sustainability and not for the intrinsic value of the technology itself. Moreover, nanophysics and nano-engineering have the potential to significantly change the paradigm of conventional hydrogen technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrogen safety is a primary obstacle to the widespread use of hydrogen energy, and the risk of hydrogen utilization can be avoided by eliminating unnecessary hydrogen immediately. Here we report a new kind of hydrogen elimination catalyst based on ZrVFe hydrogen storage alloy supported Pt. The chemical reduction temperature and the Pt loading have a great influence on the hydrogen elimination performance. When the reduction temperature is 60 °C and the Pt loading is 2 wt%, the ZrVFe/Pt catalyst exhibits excellent hydrogen elimination ability at 2–20 vol% hydrogen concentration, especially the efficiency of hydrogen elimination at 20 vol% hydrogen concentration is as high as 99%. The hydrogen adsorption capacity of the ZrVFe/Pt catalyst was 13 times higher than that of the commonly used metal carrier FeCrAl/Pt catalyst. This work paves a new direction for the design and on-going development of hydrogen elimination catalyst for hydrogen energy applications. [Display omitted] • ZrVFe hydrogen storage alloy is used as a catalyst carrier for hydrogen elimination. • ZrVFe/Pt catalysts exhibit excellent hydrogen elimination performance at 2–20 vol% hydrogen concentration range. • The catalyst achieves 99% hydrogen conversion at 450 °C. • The hydrogen absorption reaction promotes hydrogen-oxygen complexation, thus increasing the hydrogen elimination capacity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Pd/Gd bilayers and Pd/Ni/Gd trilayers were prepared onto glass substrates by magnetron sputtering. Detailed XPS in-situ studies of the Pd/Gd bilayers allowed to estimate the thickness of the mixed layer at about 4 nm. Further studies showed that the additional Ni interlayer can significantly reduce the interface mixing during the deposition process, leading to the formation of a rather narrow Ni–Gd interface. The structure of the obtained layers before and after the hydrogenation was examined by the standard X-ray diffraction method. The hydrogenation kinetics was studied in-situ at room temperature and pressure up to 1 bar using simultaneous measurements of resistivity and optical transmittance. Furthermore, hydrogen absorption by electrochemical method was monitored using optical transmittance. It was found that the use of an additional 4 nm Ni layer significantly improved the cyclicity of the hydrogen absorption/desorption from the electrolyte, while maintaining low switching time (10 s). [Display omitted] • Interface mixing for the Pd/Gd bilayers and Pd/Ni/Gd trilayers was studied in-situ by XPS. • Hydrogen absorption was monitored in-situ using optical transmittance measurements. • The use of an additional 4 nm Ni interlayer significantly improved the cyclicity of hydrogenation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, the reaction behavior and chemical stability of two commercially available SmCo 2:17‐type sintered magnets with nominal composition of Sm23.75Co48.67FebalCu4.91Zr2.37 and Sm24.95Co48.80FebalCu4.46Zr2.68 (wt%) are investigated. The magnets are placed in a hydrogen atmosphere with systematically varied pressure, exposure time, and temperature ranging from 1–11 bar, 2–10 d, and 25–500 °C, respectively. Hydrogen content, magnetic properties, microstructure, and lattice constants are characterized in detail. It is found that for short exposure times like 2 d an activation temperature of 120 °C is necessary to initiate the reaction and to increase the amount of hydrogen in the Sm–Co material. Hydrogen absorption starts at lower temperatures with longer exposure times. An increase in exposure time, temperature, or pressure leads to a higher hydrogen content and a decrease in remanence Br, energy product (BH)max, and coercivity HcB. Lattice expansion, estimated by X‐ray diffraction analysis, correlates with the increasing amount of hydrogen in the Sm–Co magnets. With respect to all varied parameters under investigation, the exposure temperature has the highest impact on the observed property changes followed by reaction time and H2 pressure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The performance of uranium as a hydrogen storage material has attracted much attention. Herein, the hydrogen absorption properties of depleted uranium in impure hydrogen containing He, Ar, CH 4 , N 2 , CO, CO 2 and O 2 were studied by PVT method and XPS analysis. When these impurity gases were mixed in H 2 at low concentrations (0.1%∼1.5%), their behavior can be classified into three categories. The He, CH 4 and Ar were chemically inert to the activated uranium powder under room condition. These three gases inhibited the absorption kinetics during the whole stage by hindering the diffusion of H 2 molecules, showing a blanketing effect. The N 2 and O 2 did not affect the absorption kinetics but reduced the capacity by forming nitrides and oxides. The poisoning effect of N 2 was weaker than that of O 2. The CO and CO 2 not only affected the hydrogen absorption capacity, but also strongly inhibited the absorption kinetics. These two gases are chemically adsorbed on the uranium surface to form passivation layers, thus inhibiting the adsorption and dissociation of H 2 molecules and the diffusion of H atoms. The poisoning and retardation effect of CO 2 were much stronger than that of CO. The above conclusions are important to further study the reactivity of mixed gas with uranium, and can also be used as a reference for other hydrogen storage systems. [Display omitted] • The absorption of impure hydrogen by uranium was investigated. • Seven common impurity gases correspond to three kinds of mechanisms. • Blanketing effect inhibits the dynamics process. (He, CH 4 , Ar). • Poisoning effect reduces the hydrogen absorption capacity. (N 2 , O 2). • CO and CO 2 show poisoning & retardation effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thin layers (up to 1 µm) of Pd-Ir alloys were electrodeposited from aqueous, galvanic baths of PdCl2 and IrCl3 mixtures. The morphology of the electrodeposits was examined by means of scanning electron microscopy. The composition of alloys was determined with the use of energy-dispersive spectroscopy, atomic absorption spectrometry, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and Auger electron spectroscopy. For the studies of the electrochemical properties of alloys, cyclic voltammetry, chronoamperometry, and chronopotentiometry were used. It was found that Pd-Ir alloy electrodes were surface-enriched with Pd. Pd-Ir alloys subjected to different electrochemical treatment involving hydrogen sorption changed their surface state. The continuous hydrogen sorption enhanced the Ir ions' dissolution. The values of thermodynamic functions of hydrogen sorption in strong alkaline electrolytes were comparable with those in acidic electrolytes, whereas the kinetics of the process in alkaline medium was hindered. The miscibility gap in the Pd-Ir-H system vanished for the electrode containing ca. 93.7 at.% Pd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Substitution of Nb by W in Nb48Ti27Co25 dual phase hydrogen permeable alloy was carried out. The elemental W replacing Nb mainly dissolved into the primary body-centered cubic (bcc)-(Nb) phase to modify its composition and crystal lattice. The W alloying effect on hydrogen transportation was systematically discussed based on hydrogen chemical potentials and first principle calculations. The substitution of Nb by W reduced the hydrogen solubility, and led to an improved intrinsic hydrogen diffusion coefficient, especially at temperature below 573 K, which promoted the hydrogen permeation flux of Nb48Ti27Co25 alloy membrane at 523 K. According to the theoretical study based on density function theory of the Nb–W system, the reduced hydrogen solubility can be attributed to the weakened binding strength between hydrogen atoms and the bcc-(Nb) lattice and the reduced charge gained by hydrogen atoms after W substitution for Nb. In addition, the W occupying the Nb sublattice can change the diffusion path of hydrogen atoms in the bcc-(Nb) lattice, thereby reducing the diffusion energy barrier for high hydrogen diffusivity.

The hot forming process allows to produce safety-relevant structural components in the automotive industry with strengths of 1500 MPa and higher. Generally, high strengths make material sensitive to hydrogen embrittlement. The heat treatment in the hot forming process chain is a potential source of diffusible hydrogen for hot-dipped aluminum-silicon coated boron-manganese steels. In the present work, the influence of different process gases and furnace dwell times during the heat treatment was investigated. Humidified process gases such as synthetic air, nitrogen, oxygen and carbon dioxide were used. The results of the thermal desorption mass spectrometry (TDMS) revealed a more pronounced hydrogen uptake for nitrogen and carbon dioxide gas atmosphere than for synthetic air and oxygen. Furthermore, different material conditions were investigated regarding their sensitivity to hydrogen absorption. The flat-rolled material tends to suffer a higher hydrogen absorption compared to the reference material when using humidified process gases. Materials being pretreated with dry synthetic air point at a relation between the duration time of the pretreatment and the content of absorbed hydrogen.

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In the present study, the effect of electro zinc plating on environmental hydrogen embrittlement of 7075--T6 aluminum alloys was investigated by using a slow strain rate testing device which can detect quantitively the amount of hydrogen generated during deformation and fracture. The testing device can also detect traces of hydrogen gas as low as 5 ppb by using a semiconductor gas sensor at ambient pressure. It was revealed that the environmental hydrogen embrittlement of 7075--T6 aluminum alloys was highly suppressed by zinc--based electroplating, while not fully by anodization. The suppression of the hydrogen embrittlement by zinc plating was caused by the protection of original aluminum surfaces during plastic deformation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we deposited a hydrogen-sensitive FePd alloy film on Co/[Pt/Co]4/Pt multilayers with perpendicular magnetic anisotropy (PMA). Through hydrogenation, spin-reorientation transition (SRT) from a perpendicular to an in-plane direction was observed in the 2-nm-thick FePd capped multilayer. Magneto-optic Kerr effect measurements were performed in hydrogen gas at pressures ranging from a vacuum of 5 × 10–3 mbar to H2 gas at 200 mbar. Reversible SRT was demonstrated with the cyclic change of H2 pressure. Furthermore, tuning the strength of the PMA multilayer by adjusting the thickness of the Pt layer changed the SRT-critical thickness of the FePd cap and the hydrogen-induced SRT behavior. These findings will be valuable for application in spintronics through the electronic control of H-migration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The kinetic mechanism of hydrogen absorption of the AA6111 alloy melt in different melting environments, and the in-situ real-time observation of the oxide film structure during the hydrogen absorption process were studied. The results show that the hydrogen absorption process of the aluminum alloy melt is related to the melting environment and the oxide film on the melt surface. The hydrogen content in the melt increases with the extension of time when the melting environment humidity and temperature are constant. The initial hydrogen content is also higher and the hydrogen absorption capacity of the melt is larger when the melting temperature is constant with an increasing melting environment humidity. The oxide film will fold over on itself and become porous, due to the change in the structure of the melt surface during heating. The surface of the melt is similar to the double-oxide-film defect hydrogen absorption carrier, which leads to the aggravation of hydrogen absorption. Hydrogen absorption kinetic equations for the aluminum alloy melt under different melting environments are obtained based on the experimental results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coatings of metal specimens are known to have an impact on hydrogen gettering (hydrogen absorption). The coating can have one or more functions, such as enhancing gettering, preventing gettering and/or preventing oxidation of the metal substrate. It is known that contaminants and surface texture can impact hydrogen gettering/absorption performance, but has not previously been thoroughly explored. This study evaluated the role of different post-plating heat treatments of nickel-plated zircaloy-4 getters (NPGs) and the role of the heat treatments on gettering rates, surface composition and texture. Nickel plating is applied to prevent oxidation of the Zircaloy-4 surface and also enhances gettering. The nickel plating must be heat treated before desirable gettering can occur. Our NPG getters with historically known satisfying performance were pre-heat treated in air followed by activation heat treatment in a vacuum at a higher temperature. In this study, we were interested in finding out if both heat treatment steps were necessary to obtain a desirable gettering performance, or if one step could be omitted. XPS analysis showed that if the nickel surface is not heat treated before bonding the nickel to the zirconium in the activation step, there will be carbon contaminants on the surface, which significantly reduces gettering. We studied the texture of Zircaloy-4 using SEM/EBSD to compare NPGs with both heat treatment steps with NPGs that had no post-plating heat treatment to learn if the degree of cold work could be impacted by the heat treatment steps. We did not observe any differences in texture between them. We measured gettering rates of both pretreated and activated NPGs and NPGs that had been activated without first being pre-heat treated. We found that the NPGs without the first post-plating heating step had up to a seven times slower gettering rate and obtained higher plateau pressures due to the contaminated surface. Thus, the pre-heat treatment in air before activation is necessary to avoid slower gettering rates and higher plateau pressures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A hydride of Yb2Pd2Sn could be synthesized with approximately 2 H atoms per f.u. The hydrogenation leads to a volume expansion while preserving the tetragonal symmetry (P4/mbm). The lattice reaction is strongly anisotropic, and the 5% expansion in c is partly compensated by the 0.5% compression in a. The hydride is paramagnetic at least down to 0.5 K. Yb remains at or very close to the 3+ (4f13) state, as in Yb2Pd2Sn. Specific heat C/T vs. T shows an upturn existing already in Yb2Pd2Sn, but it is much more pronounced in the hydride (1.8 J/mol f.u. K2 for T → 0, i.e., more than twice higher than in its precursor). This is interpreted as lowering the Kondo temperature due to H bonding.

Considerable fluctuations in the cathodic protection potential under the impact of stray currents lead to the occurrence of local corrosion on steel structures operated in soils and seawater. The potential fluctuations induced by both alternating and direct current sources can be simulated by cycling a square potential step. This paper covers the impact of sign-alternating cyclic polarization (SACP) on the general and local corrosion of carbon steel in 3.5% NaCl solution containing a borate buffer (pH 6.7) and without it. A decrease in the cathodic half-period potential (Ec) of SACP inhibited the general corrosion and accelerates the local corrosion of steel in both solutions, which was associated with an increase in the amount of hydrogen in the metal. Increasing the duration of the SACP cathodic half-period increased the pit density and total area at less negative Ec values. At more negative Ec values, an increase in the duration of cathodic polarization reduced the intensity of steel local corrosion in the unbuffered chloride solution. This effect is explained by blocking of the pit nucleation centers on the metal surface by a layer of steel dissolution products formed in the near-electrode electrolyte layer with a high pH. The combined body of data shows that hydrogen absorption by the metal determines the corrosion behavior of carbon steel under the impact of SACP in chloride solutions, which should be taken into account in the development of models of the corrosion of steel structures under the action of stray currents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The hydrogen infrastructure involves hydrogen production, storage and delivery for utilization with clean energy applications. Hydrogen ingress into structural materials can be detrimental due to corrosion and embrittlement. To enable safe operation in applications that need protection from hydrogen isotopes, this review article summarizes most recent advances in materials design and performance characterization of barrier coatings to prevent hydrogen isotopes' absorption ingress and permeation. Barriers are crucial to prevent hydride formation and unwanted hydrogen effects to increase safety, materials' lifetime and reduce cost for applications within nuclear and renewable energy. The coating may be applied on a material that requires protection from hydrogen pick-up, transport and hydride formation in hydrogen storage containers, in pipelines, spent nuclear fuel storage or in nuclear reactors. While existing, commercial coatings that have been much in use may be satisfactory for various applications, it is desirable to evaluate whether alternative coating concepts can provide a greater resistance to hydrogen isotope permeation along with other improved properties, such as mechanical strength and thermal resistance. The information presented here is focusing on recent findings within the past 5–7 years of promising hydrogen barriers including oxides, nitrides, carbon, carbide, MAX-phases and metals and their mechanical strength, hydrogen pick-up, radiation resistance and coating manufacturing techniques. A brief introduction to hydrogen permeation is provided. Knowledge gaps were identified to provide guidance for material's research prospects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrogen storage performance for metal hydride (MH) reactor is restricted by the poor thermal conductivity of MH. In this study, the gradient porosity metal foam was added into MH reactor for enhancing heat transportation (GMF reactor), and its hydrogen absorption performance was investigated numerically in detail. Then, thermal resistance analysis was conducted to analyze the heat transportation in GMF reactor, and Genetic Algorithm was applied for optimizing metal foam distribution under different conditions. It was indicated that the hydrogenation performance for optimized two-layer GMF reactor was increased by 11.5% compared with uniform metal foam reactor (UMF reactor). The optimization results indicated that the optimal volumetric fractions of metal foam (VFMF) are about 0.08 for both optimized GMF reactor and UMF reactor with the trade-off of hydrogen storage capacity and hydrogen absorption rate. Then, a new indicator of comprehensive hydrogen storage performance (CHSP) for MH reactor was proposed, which includes the influence of hydrogen storage rate, hydrogen storage capacity, volumetric storage density and gravimetric storage density. Besides, the hydrogenation performance for optimized GMF reactor was improved with metal foam layer increasing, and the optimal porosity distribution was gradually approaching a specific power exponent trend. It was showed that the hydrogenation performance for power-exponent GMF reactor was increased by 2.8% and 18.2% compared with that of optimized four-layer GMF reactor and UMF reactor, respectively. • Gradient porosity metal foam (GMF) was added into MH bed to improve heat transfer. • Genetic algorithm was used to optimize the distribution of metal foam. • Performance of two-layer GMF reactor increases by 11.5% compared with UMF reactor. • The optimal volumetric fraction of metal foam (VFMF) for reactors equal about 0.08. • A new indicator of comprehensive hydrogen storage performance (CHSP) was proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper focuses on nanoindentation and TOF-SIMS (time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry) small-scale test methods in the study of hydrogen absorption and oxygenation behavior analysis of Zr-Sn-Nb oxidized at 650°C −1200 °C. The CSM (Continuous Stiffness Method) test demonstrates the hardness fluctuations caused by element proliferation in post-high temperature oxidation microstructures. The deformation resistance ability of typical microstructures is as follows: β-Zr layer > α-Zr(O) layer > ZrO 2 layer. In addition, hydrogen-induced softening occurred in steam-containing hydrogen conditions (H IT =2～3Gpa), compared to steam (H IT =5～16Gpa). The 1200℃ load-displacement curve demonstrates that the pop-in (or pop-out) effect exists in the Zr-Sn-Nb alloy, related to the influence of hydrogen charge, essentially to dislocation nucleation, winding, and movement. TOF-SIMS provides an effective method for small molecular chemical elements, such as H and O, while ZrO, ZrO 2 , ZrO 2 H, ZrO 3 H, OH, and O 2 ions also be found. Based on these results, this study also hypothesizes the OH- dominated oxidation reaction equation. • The nanoindentation and TOF-SIMS were used in the study of hydrogen absorption and oxygenation behavior analysis of Zr-Sn-Nb oxidized at 650℃-1200℃. • The oxidation atmosphere research focuses on steam and steam-containing hydrogen, the latter in verifying the effect of hydrogen molecules on the oxidation behavior of zirconium alloys. • The pop-in (or pop-out) effects of oxidized Zr-Sn-Nb alloys were speculatively discussed. • TOF-SIMS provides an effective method for small molecular chemical elements, such as H and O. • The mechanism of the oxidation reaction process led by OH roots is discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Subsurface hydrogen as a separate species influences the Faradaic impedance. • New equivalent circuit for combination of H 2 evolution and H absorption is proposed. • The model provides good fit to impedance spectra of TiFe and TiFe 2 electrodes. An equation has been obtained for the Faradaic impedance of the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), parallel to which the hydrogen absorption reaction (HAR) occurs, taking into account subsurface hydrogen (hydrogen atoms between the first and second layers of metal atoms) as a separate state. A new equivalent electrical circuit for the HER + HAR process has been proposed. It has been shown that the improvement in the quality of approximation of the impedance spectra of TiFe and TiFe 2 cathodes in 0.5 M H 2 SO 4 when using this equivalent circuit is statistically significant. Based on the impedance data, a HER + HAR mechanism is suggested for the TiFe electrode. The interactions in the layer of adsorbed hydrogen atoms and in the subsurface layer are discussed qualitatively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using metal hydride for hydrogen storage in stationary applications and for transportation is a promising technology due to its advantages of large hydrogen storage capacity, low pressure and low energy consumption. Combining the metal hydride reactor with PCM is expected to recover the heat generated during the hydrogen absorption and use it for hydrogen desorption, thus improving the energy efficiency of the system. This paper proposes a metal hydride reactor integrated with honeycomb fins and PCM to enhance heat transfer. Based on simulations, the results show that the achieved hydrogen storage capacity is 1.326 wt%, the gravimetric and volumetric storage densities are 0.411% and 14.76 kg of H 2 per m3, respectively, and the mean saturated rates are 1.222 × 10−3 g s−1 and 0.773 × 10−3 g s−1 for absorption and desorption processes. Compared with the reactor without fins, the mass and volume of the reactor using honeycomb fins are increased, resulting in a decrease in gravimetric and volumetric storage density, but a increase in reaction rate during hydrogen absorption and desorption processes. Based on this structure, we also propose a honeycomb fin reactor filled with sandwich PCM to further accelerate the heat transfer in the reaction process. Compare to the reactor with PCM only filled on the periphery of the honeycomb fins, the hydrogen absorption and desorption times are shortened by about 86.4% and 81.1%, respectively. In addition, different reactor structures are compared using multiple KPIs to provide relevant suggestions for the reactor optimization. The obtained research results can provide a reference for effective thermal management methods in MH storage systems. • A metal hydride reactor integrated with honeycomb fins and PCM was proposed. • The comparison of reactor without fins and the effects of fin size were studied. • The placement of PCM and MH was optimized. • Multiple KPIs were used to evaluate the hydrogen absorption and desorption processes. • The optimized reactor performed better than other forms of reactors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thin layers (up to 1 µm) of Pd-Ir alloys were electrodeposited from aqueous, galvanic baths of PdCl2 and IrCl3 mixtures. The morphology of the electrodeposits was examined by means of scanning electron microscopy. The composition of alloys was determined with the use of energy-dispersive spectroscopy, atomic absorption spectrometry, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and Auger electron spectroscopy. For the studies of the electrochemical properties of alloys, cyclic voltammetry, chronoamperometry, and chronopotentiometry were used. It was found that Pd-Ir alloy electrodes were surface-enriched with Pd. Pd-Ir alloys subjected to different electrochemical treatment involving hydrogen sorption changed their surface state. The continuous hydrogen sorption enhanced the Ir ions’ dissolution. The values of thermodynamic functions of hydrogen sorption in strong alkaline electrolytes were comparable with those in acidic electrolytes, whereas the kinetics of the process in alkaline medium was hindered. The miscibility gap in the Pd-Ir-H system vanished for the electrode containing ca. 93.7 at.% Pd.

Organic getters are often introduced into sealed systems to remove the excessive reactive hydrogen gas. In this work, the formable graphene aerogel hydrogen getters are prepared by integrating the alkyne-containing molecules (e.g., DEB) into the palladium-loaded three-dimensional layered porous graphene aerogel (Pd-GA). The performance of Pd-GA/DEB composite materials in reducing reactive hydrogen gas is examined at pressures of 0.1–1 bar at a temperature of 25 °C, and the hydrogen consumption is measured as a function of time. Results suggest that the hydrogen uptake capability of Pd-GA/DEB getters increases with the loading of Pd particles on the GA and the content of Pd0. The highest hydrogen absorption capacity is up to 215.5 cm3/g, and the hydrogenation rate of DEB molecules is 89.3%. This study promotes the fundamental understanding of solid-phase catalytic hydrogenation and the applications of 3D layered porous graphene aerogel in hydrogen absorption. [Display omitted] • A compressible and strong graphene aerogel (GA) was prepared by a gentle method. • The palladium (Pd) nanoparticles were uniformly supported on the GA. • The formable hydrogen getters were fabricated by integrating Pd-GA with DEB. • The highest hydrogen absorption capacity of Pd-GA/DEB was up to 215.5 cm3/g. • The GA can effectively disperse metal particles and accelerate hydrogen diffusion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Atmospheric corrosion is one of the major sources of hydrogen in a high-strength-steel product in service. Even low concentrations of absorbed hydrogen can cause a hydrogen embrittlement-related material degradation. The extent of atmospheric corrosion and thus the related hydrogen entry is highly dependent on the environmental parameters, such as the relative humidity. The present work focused on the hydrogen entry at low relative humidity, where atmospheric corrosion rates are expected to be low. Hydrogen insertion and distribution in CP1000 steel induced by corrosion under dried and rewetted single droplets of aqueous NaCl and MgCl2 solution were studied using the Scanning Kelvin Probe (SKP) and the resulting amounts of diffusible hydrogen were analyzed using thermal desorption mass spectrometry (TDMS). Corrosion product analyses were carried out with SEM/EDX, XRD, and Mössbauer spectroscopy. The results revealed the strong impact of salt type and concentration on the hydrogen entry into steel. The hygroscopic effect of MgCl2 and the formed corrosion products were responsible for the prolonged insertion of hydrogen into the steel even at very low levels of relative humidity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pulsed laser irradiation was performed on titanium in acetone and then the hydrogen storage properties were investigated under a hydrogen atmosphere. TiO x C y films were formed by the irradiation of Ti powders with a fluence of 0.36 J cm−2. The irradiation increased the hydrogen absorption temperatures. Thus, the TiO x C y films showed a specific kind of hydrogen barrier effect. Irradiation with a fluence of 0.36 J cm−2 was performed to coat the Ti plate. Although the TiO x C y films formed on the surface, the amount of hydrogen absorption increased compared with the non-irradiated plate because of the change in surface chemical bonding states and high porosity of the films due to the irradiation. The phases generated by irradiation were controlled by the laser fluence. With a low fluence of 0.17 J cm−2, TiO 2 films were formed instead of TiO x C y films, and these dense films showed better hydrogen barrier effects than the non-irradiated plate. • YAG laser irradiation of Ti powders and plates in acetone was performed. • TiO 2 films were formed with a fluence of 0.17 J cm−2. • TiO x C y films were formed with a fluence of 0.36 J cm−2. • Ti plates with irradiation of 0.17 J cm−2 showed better hydrogen barrier effects. • High porosity of films and cracks formation would result in worse barrier effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The H contents and H embrittlement (HE) of Zn- and ZnNi-electrodeposited SCM435 bolts were quantitatively evaluated before and after baking. The Zn-coated bolt possessed higher H contents than the ZnNi-coated bolt in as-electrodeposited and baked states. H atoms were strongly trapped inside the coating layers. The Zn-coated bolt underwent flaking of coating layer during baking at temperatures above 200 °C due to H effusion through the brittle δ phase. The Zn-coated bolt exhibited no HE regardless of baking despite of its high H content due to no permeation of H into the steel substrate during electrodeposition and tensile deformation.

The Pd hydride (PdH x) is a typical system to study the fundamentals of solute intercalation and phase transformations or to determine the effect of strain on the rate of electrocatalytic reactions. A crucial methodological aspect, however, involves quantitatively determining the hydrogen-to-palladium atomic ratio (H:Pd) under experimental conditions where various incidental contributions to the total electrode charge are comparable to the charge spent for H adsorption/absorption and desorption. This is the case for electrodes with relatively low (dozens of μg/cm2) loadings of Pd on various porous supports, typically used to study the oxidation of small organic molecules or the reduction of oxygen in acidic or alkaline fuel cells. Ultra-low Pd loadings (often in the range of a few μg/cm2) are also typical for Pd nanoparticles on smooth supports, which are commonly considered as model systems for in situ structural studies of hydrogen sorption. To determine accurately the H content in Pd particles, we propose a technique based on analysis of charge disbalance at anodic and cathodic scans of a cyclic voltammogram, and also address the contribution of adsorbed H. To illustrate the possibilities and limitations of this technique, we present the voltametric study of thin electrodeposited Pd layers on glassy carbon and of a carbon-supported Pd catalyst. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrogen embrittlement is a common phenomenon in high-strength steels and presents a significant challenge in the research and development process. This study aims to analyze the mechanism of hydrogen embrittlement, investigate the causes of crack growth in steel, and conduct experiments at mesoscopic and microscopic scales to gain a deep understanding of the relationship between hydrogen embrittlement and defects in high-strength steels. The research includes a slow tensile test to study the shrinkage and ductility of X42 steel and 20# carburizing steel under air and hydrogen environments. Furthermore, fatigue testing is conducted to comparatively investigate the crack growth of CT specimens in nitrogen and hydrogen environments at different pressures. Additionally, impact testing is performed to examine the fracture of V-notched specimens in air and hydrogen at different pressures. The findings reveal that 20# carburizing steel exhibits better fracture toughness than X42 steel during the slow tensile process, and its hydrogen embrittlement sensitivity is lower. Moreover, the fatigue crack growth process of 20# carburizing steel is less affected by hydrogen embrittlement, resulting in better fatigue rupture resistance compared to X42 steel. Furthermore, the impact toughness value of 20# carburizing steel is higher than that of X42 steel in the impact toughness test. Both steels show varying effects on crack growth under different hydrogenation pressures. Importantly, the impact toughness of both steels is less affected by different hydrogenation pressures. • Hydrogen embrittlement mechanism of high-strength steels is investigated. • Steel deformation under different hydrogen environments is tested. • The relationship between hydrogen embrittlement and defects in steels is analyzed. • The effects of hydrogen pressure on two types of steels are compared. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The kinetic mechanism of hydrogen absorption of the AA6111 alloy melt in different melting environments, and the in-situ real-time observation of the oxide film structure during the hydrogen absorption process were studied. The results show that the hydrogen absorption process of the aluminum alloy melt is related to the melting environment and the oxide film on the melt surface. The hydrogen content in the melt increases with the extension of time when the melting environment humidity and temperature are constant. The initial hydrogen content is also higher and the hydrogen absorption capacity of the melt is larger when the melting temperature is constant with an increasing melting environment humidity. The oxide film will fold over on itself and become porous, due to the change in the structure of the melt surface during heating. The surface of the melt is similar to the double-oxide-film defect hydrogen absorption carrier, which leads to the aggravation of hydrogen absorption. Hydrogen absorption kinetic equations for the aluminum alloy melt under different melting environments are obtained based on the experimental results.

Coatings of metal specimens are known to have an impact on hydrogen gettering (hydrogen absorption). The coating can have one or more functions, such as enhancing gettering, preventing gettering and/or preventing oxidation of the metal substrate. It is known that contaminants and surface texture can impact hydrogen gettering/absorption performance, but has not previously been thoroughly explored. This study evaluated the role of different post-plating heat treatments of nickel-plated zircaloy-4 getters (NPGs) and the role of the heat treatments on gettering rates, surface composition and texture. Nickel plating is applied to prevent oxidation of the Zircaloy-4 surface and also enhances gettering. The nickel plating must be heat treated before desirable gettering can occur. Our NPG getters with historically known satisfying performance were pre-heat treated in air followed by activation heat treatment in a vacuum at a higher temperature. In this study, we were interested in finding out if both heat treatment steps were necessary to obtain a desirable gettering performance, or if one step could be omitted. XPS analysis showed that if the nickel surface is not heat treated before bonding the nickel to the zirconium in the activation step, there will be carbon contaminants on the surface, which significantly reduces gettering. We studied the texture of Zircaloy-4 using SEM/EBSD to compare NPGs with both heat treatment steps with NPGs that had no post-plating heat treatment to learn if the degree of cold work could be impacted by the heat treatment steps. We did not observe any differences in texture between them. We measured gettering rates of both pretreated and activated NPGs and NPGs that had been activated without first being pre-heat treated. We found that the NPGs without the first post-plating heating step had up to a seven times slower gettering rate and obtained higher plateau pressures due to the contaminated surface. Thus, the pre-heat treatment in air before activation is necessary to avoid slower gettering rates and higher plateau pressures.

The crystallization and the hydrogen absorption properties of a Ni 32 Nb 28 Zr 30 Fe 10 melt spun ribbon were investigated. X-ray diffraction measurements reveal that a small fraction of the ribbon is in a crystalline state, whereas the main component is amorphous. The bulk crystallization process of the alloy ribbon occurs in two steps above 770 K, as measured by differential scanning calorimetry. At each step of the crystallization process, an unusually low activation energy of the order of 180 kJ/mol, was observed. Hydrogen absorption pressure-composition isotherms measured between 598 K and 673 K showed that the enthalpy of hydrogenation is quite high (∼85 kJ/mol), as compared to that of analogous ribbons. The isotherms of these ribbons do not exhibit any plateau, similarly to other amorphous materials, but they exhibited extremely slow kinetics for hydrogen absorption. To simulate the local atomic structure involving cluster formation in amorphous Ni 32 Nb 28 Zr 30 Fe 10 alloy, DFT-MD approach was used to construct an amorphous supercell of this alloy with 108 atoms. Calculations predicted that a fully amorphous structure of Ni 32 Nb 28 Zr 30 Fe 10 can form. The low activation energy of crystallization observed before hydrogenation is due to the presence of only 3 full icosahedra without any Ni-centered icosahedra, that could provide resistance against crystallization. Moreover, a cluster analysis of the Ni 32 Nb 28 Zr 30 Fe 10 alloy after hydrogenation showed interaction of hydrogen atoms with only two icosahedra out of four found in this case, and this could be the probable reason for the extremely slow kinetics of hydrogen absorption. [Display omitted] • Melt spun Ni 32 Nb 28 Zr 30 Fe 10 is mainly amorphous with a minor crystalline inclusion. • Activation energy for crystallization is extremely low (180 kJ/mol). • Large quantities of hydrogen are stored with a slow kinetics. • DFT Molecular Dynamics show the alloy has poor resistance to crystallization. • Hydrogen interacts with two out of four icosahedral clusters with a slow kinetics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Considerable fluctuations in the cathodic protection potential under the impact of stray currents lead to the occurrence of local corrosion on steel structures operated in soils and seawater. The potential fluctuations induced by both alternating and direct current sources can be simulated by cycling a square potential step. This paper covers the impact of sign-alternating cyclic polarization (SACP) on the general and local corrosion of carbon steel in 3.5% NaCl solution containing a borate buffer (pH 6.7) and without it. A decrease in the cathodic half-period potential (Ec) of SACP inhibited the general corrosion and accelerates the local corrosion of steel in both solutions, which was associated with an increase in the amount of hydrogen in the metal. Increasing the duration of the SACP cathodic half-period increased the pit density and total area at less negative Ec values. At more negative Ec values, an increase in the duration of cathodic polarization reduced the intensity of steel local corrosion in the unbuffered chloride solution. This effect is explained by blocking of the pit nucleation centers on the metal surface by a layer of steel dissolution products formed in the near-electrode electrolyte layer with a high pH. The combined body of data shows that hydrogen absorption by the metal determines the corrosion behavior of carbon steel under the impact of SACP in chloride solutions, which should be taken into account in the development of models of the corrosion of steel structures under the action of stray currents.

The hydrogen infrastructure involves hydrogen production, storage and delivery for utilization with clean energy applications. Hydrogen ingress into structural materials can be detrimental due to corrosion and embrittlement. To enable safe operation in applications that need protection from hydrogen isotopes, this review article summarizes most recent advances in materials design and performance characterization of barrier coatings to prevent hydrogen isotopes’ absorption ingress and permeation. Barriers are crucial to prevent hydride formation and unwanted hydrogen effects to increase safety, materials’ lifetime and reduce cost for applications within nuclear and renewable energy. The coating may be applied on a material that requires protection from hydrogen pick-up, transport and hydride formation in hydrogen storage containers, in pipelines, spent nuclear fuel storage or in nuclear reactors. While existing, commercial coatings that have been much in use may be satisfactory for various applications, it is desirable to evaluate whether alternative coating concepts can provide a greater resistance to hydrogen isotope permeation along with other improved properties, such as mechanical strength and thermal resistance. The information presented here is focusing on recent findings within the past 5–7 years of promising hydrogen barriers including oxides, nitrides, carbon, carbide, MAX-phases and metals and their mechanical strength, hydrogen pick-up, radiation resistance and coating manufacturing techniques. A brief introduction to hydrogen permeation is provided. Knowledge gaps were identified to provide guidance for material’s research prospects.