Evaluation and characterization of Pd-Ag composite membrane fabricated by surfactant induced electroless plating (SIEP) for hydrogen separation

Dense Pd-Ag/MPSS composite membranes were fabricated on macroporous stainless steel substrate (MPSS) by novel surfactant induced electroless plating (SIEP) process. SIEP was effective in synthesizing dense and thinner Pd-Ag films on MPSS with shorter deposition time in presence of cationic DTAB. SIEP membranes showed 3-8 times higher H-2 permeance compared to that of conventional EP membranes. The SEM, XRD, and EDS studies confirmed the formation of Pd-Ag alloy and no diffusion of MPSS substrate metal components into the Pd-Ag film. The Pd-Ag membrane (15 mu m thickness) was tested for long-term stability under thermal cycling (623-723623 K) up to 42 days.