Development of Ni-based electrocatalysts for hydrogen production in a PEM-type hydrogen generator

Results on the development of Ni-based electrocatalysts for hydrogen evolution in an acidic medium are discussed in the thesis. This topic is of a great importance for the development of a PEM-type hydrogen generator, as a global initiative for the development of clean sustainable energy systems. A number of experimental techniques were used in research: linear dc polarization (Tafel), electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), potential-decay, inductively coupled plasma (ICP), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The first part of the thesis discusses the results on the influence of alloying nickel by left-hand side transition metals (Fe, Mo, W) on the electrocatalytic activity in hydrogen evolution, while the second part of the thesis discusses the results on the development of Ni electrocatalysts using conductive polymers, polypyrrole (PPY) and polyaniline (PANT) as catalysts pattering matrices. (Abstract shortened by UMI.