Synthesis of a V–Ni Alloy with Low Temperature Hydriding Characteristics for Hydrogen Energy Storage

Abstract

Energy needs are mainly covered by fossil fuels leading to pollutant emissions, mostly responsible for global warming. Among the different possible solutions for the greenhouse-effect reduction, hydrogen has been proposed for energy transportation. Hydrogen can be seen as a clean and efficient future energy carrier. However, the major challenges regarding hydrogen energy is its storage. Of the known methods for hydrogen storage (compressed gas, cryogenic liquid, and metal hydrides), metal hydrides offer the best compromise considering both safety and efficient storage capacity. In this study, a nano structured V–Ni alloy has been synthesized by using high-energy ball milling route. The synthesized alloy is characterized by scanning electron microscope, energy dispersive spectrometer, and X-ray diffraction tools. The mean particle size of this alloy is measured as 12.5 ± 2.90 μm, and the crystallite size is computed as 8.75 ± 0.54 nm. The hydriding–dehydriding characteristics of this alloy are studied using Sievert's principle. The maximum hydrogen absorption in the synthesized V–Ni alloy is measured as 1.92 mass% at only 83°C charging temperature, and release of 1.04 mass% of H2 at discharging temperature of 210°C.