Application of gamma radiolysis of water for H₂ production

Abstract

The present work is devoted to the investigation of the effective use of radioactive waste for H₂ production by g-radiolysis of water, through both experiments and simulation. We have suceeded in improving the efficiency of hydrogen production by g-radiolysis of water via the conversion of g-rays to lower energy electrons and photons by introducing high Z metals, such as Ta, Pd, W and Pb, into water. We have also used exothermic hydrogen occluders like Ta and Pd to absorb the produced hydrogen, suppressing recombination of hydrogen to water. Surface oxidation which must be avoided, was also prevented using Pd.