X-ray Emission during Electrolysis of Light Water on Palladium and Nickel Thin Films

Electrochemical experiments have been carried out in order to investigate the emission of X-rays during electrochemical hydrogen loading of thin metallic films of Pd and Ni. An estimate of the inventory of the most significant chemical elements in the cells has also been done. The activity was developed within the framework of a cooperative research effort between ENEA and SRI. In order to minimize the background due to environmental contamination, the experimental cells were manufactured using only two materials (pure polyethylene and pure platinum). The thin films were produced by sputtering pure materials on supports made of the same pure polyethylene used for the cells.