Characterization of ceramic hydrogen separation membranes with varying nickel concentrations

Ceramic hydrogen separation membranes in the stoichiometric form BaCe0.8Y0.2O3, doped with various concentrations of nickel, were characterized by utilizing X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy XPS., scanning electron microscopy SEM., energy dispersive spectroscopy EDS., and atomic-force microscopy AFM.. Characterization was performed at room temperature, 5508C and 6508C, and after exposure to hydrogen. Migration of nickel to the surface and changes in both elemental composition and oxidation states were observed at elevated temperatures. The concentration of nickel significantly affects surface morphology and roughness. q2000 Published by Elsevier Science B.V.