THE NET ADSORPTION OF HYDROGEN ON PALLADIUM NANOPARTICLES

In this paper, we report the synthesis of polymer coated palladium (Pd) nanoparticles through a single stage reduction of Pd2+ ions by ethylene glycol. Polyvinyl pyrrolidone (PVP, MW 25,000) is used as a stabilizer. Self-assembled Pd nanoparticles (10–40 nm) were used in hydrogen adsorption studies. Gravimetric adsorption measurements were carried out in a pressure range of 0–26 bar at 293, 324, 364 and 392 K. Saturation for all isotherms was obtained within a few bars of pressure at all temperatures. Maximum hydrogen storage capacity observed was 0.58 wt.% at 324 K and 20 bar. Net adsorption calculations indicated that required tank volume (for storing a particular amount of hydrogen) can be significantly reduced by using a tank filled with Pd nanoparticle.