Preparation and characterization of ultra-thin Pd-Ag alloy membranes

Ultra-thin Pd-Ag alloy membranes were prepared initially by cold rolling, and it was found that there exist a large number of defects such as pinholes or cracks in the as-rolled membranes. Subsequently, these defects were repaired using electroless plating technique. The morphologies of the membranes have been examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). It was observed in some as-repaired membranes that the defects were disappeared. A hydrogen permeation study has demonstrated that the as-repaired Pd-Ag alloy membranes were of high hydrogen permeation flux and hydrogen selectivity.