Nature of the Pd–CNT interaction in Pd nanoparticles dispersed on multi-walled carbon nanotubes and its implications in hydrogen storage properties

Abstract

Oleyl amine stabilised Pd nanoparticles have been prepared by reverse micro-emulsion method and supported on multi walled CNTs. TEM studies have confirmed that Pd nanoparticles, having sizes in the range of 3–5 nm, are well dispersed on the CNTs. Based on ¹³C MAS NMR and TG-DTA studies it is inferred that the Pd nanoparticles interact with CNT support to form sp³ carbon species, which get effectively dispersed on the CNTs. Such finely dispersed Pd nanoparticles facilitate the spillover of hydrogen to the CNT support and improve the hydrogen storage capacity.