Optical switching properties of Pd-Ni thin-film top-capped switchable mirrors

Abstract

Switchable mirrors based on magnesium-nickel alloy thin films capped with catalytic Pd-Ni alloy thin films were prepared by a DC magnetron sputtering method. Their composition, structure and surface morphology were studied by XPS, XRD and AFM. Herein, the optical switching properties and durability of the switchable mirrors were investigated by varying the Ni content in the Pd-Ni alloys. Comparing pure Pd catalyst with Pd-Ni top-capped switchable mirrors, the latter show better hydrogenation and dehydrogenation kinetics, and the speed of hydrogen desorption is obviously improved with increasing Ni content in the Pd-Ni alloy. The Pd-Ni capped switchable mirrors also have better optical switching durability. The catalytic Pd layer with the addition of Ni does not influence the transmittance (hydride state) and reflectance (metallic state) of the switchable mirrors. In addition, replacing Pd with Pd-Ni alloy decreases the cost of the switchable mirrors: employing nickel in the alloy Pd89.2Ni10.8 can save about 11% use of Pd. Therefore, the Pd-Ni alloy can provide a cheaper catalytic thin film, and it is expected to have applications in energy-saving windows, hydrogen sensors and hydrogen storage materials.