Power output, microstructure, and microchemical analysis of high surface area Pd and Ti cathodes obtained by thermal treatment
Abstract
Palladium and titanium foils were heated over a Bunsen burner flame to obtain a topography with a high surface area to volume ratio in the resulting metal oxide. These microstructures are hypothesized to form via spinodal decomposition, rather than classical recrystallization and grain growth. For metals that can undergo significant sorption of hydrogen isotopes, an increased surface area naturally leads to an increased hydrogen (and/or deuterium) loading capacity. Electrolysis experiments conducted in acidified, either light or heavy water, using the heat treated metal cathodes, showed anomalous elements, including V and Fe, from Ti cathodes after heat treatment and electrolysis. Following electrolysis, anomalous Ag was detected in the center of the dark pit on the Pd cathode. Power output from electrolysis with a heat treated Pd cathode will be compared with that from electrolysis with a Pd cathode in the cold rolled condition.