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Switchable mirrors based on nickel-magnesium films

Journal Article · · Applied Physics Letters
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1063/1.1371959· OSTI ID:782507
A new type of electrochromic mirror electrode based on reversible uptake of hydrogen in nickel magnesium alloy films is reported. Thin,magnesium-rich Ni-Mg films prepared on glass substrates by cosputtering from Ni and Mg targets are mirror-like in appearance and have low visible transmittance. Upon exposure to hydrogen gas or on reduction in alkaline electrolyte, the films take up hydrogen and become transparent. When hydrogen is removed, the mirror properties are recovered. The transition is believed to result from reversible formation of Mg2NiH4 and MgH2. A thin overlayer of palladium was found to enhance the kinetics of hydrogen insertion and extraction,and to protect the metal surface against oxidation.
Research Organization:
Ernest Orlando Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA (US)
Sponsoring Organization:
USDOE Assistant Secretary for Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (US)
DOE Contract Number:
AC03-76SF00098
OSTI ID:
782507
Report Number(s):
LBNL--47180
Journal Information:
Applied Physics Letters, Journal Name: Applied Physics Letters Journal Issue: 20 Vol. 78; ISSN APPLAB; ISSN 0003-6951
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English

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