Abstract
An experimental protocol for the metallographic study of the phase transformation in the MgH 2 -Mg hydrogen storage system has been developed. To this purpose partially desorbed MgH 2 powders have been examined by scanning electron microscopy, with the aim of better understanding the kinetic mechanisms involved in the thermal decomposition of MgH 2 that is at the basis of H 2 release. The method is based on the different secondary electron emission yield of metallic Mg and insulating MgH 2 at low accelerating voltage. In optimized observation conditions, a net contrast between the two phases, even in the presence of catalyst particles constituted by heavy elements, has been obtained. First results evidence the role of catalyst particles in assisting the nucleation step in the MgH 2 /Mg phase transformation.
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