Microstructure and hydrogen storage properties of (Ti_0.32Cr _0.43V_0.25) + x wt% la (x = 0-10) alloys

The composite alloy of Ti_0.32Cr_0.43V_0.25 with x wt% La (where x = 0-10) was prepared by arc melting technique. The effect on hydrogen storage capacity, flatness of the plateau pressure, and residual hydrogen was investigated in La added Ti_0.32Cr_0.43V _0.25. Crystalline phase and microstructure of the prepared composite alloy were investigated and characterized by XRD, SEM and TEM. The crystal structure was refinement using Rietveld analysis. The effective hydrogen storage capacity of the composite alloy was found comparable to the parent alloy, when 5 wt% La was added. The effective hydrogen capacity (∼2.31 wt%) was close to that of the parent alloy (2.35 wt%) and the plateau slope was significantly improved from 30.5 of the parent alloy to 14.6. Appropriate mechanisms associated with the improved flatness by the La addition has been discussed in terms of the refined crystalline structure. Using TG/DTA method we have shown the differences in the interaction of residual hydrogen with the BCC phase of both parent alloy and 5 wt % La mixed alloy.