Why does platinum adsorb hydrogen

In summary, platinum is able to adsorb hydrogen due to its ability to attract and trap small particles, such as hydrogen atoms, within its lattice structure. This is similar to how a sponge soaks up water. However, the exact mechanism is not fully understood. Some theories suggest that hydrogen's small size and affinity for getting in between atoms in the metal lattice plays a role. This property of platinum is also important in various applications, such as hydrogen cells and catalysis.
  • #1
ajayguhan
153
1
Why does platinum adsorbs hydrogen, when platinum being one of the inert element? Is there any law which states about the adsorbent and the adsorbent gas? Why do some elements like platinum absorbs while some elements doesn't adsorb gases!? Is there a way to predict that this element or compound will absorb this kind of substances upto this extent.
 
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  • #2
It's a bulk material property similar to why some things dissolve in some substance and others don't.
But more like how a sponge soaks up water ...

There are lots of ideas about how Platinum-like metals do what they do, eg.
http://www.chemistryexplained.com/elements/L-P/Platinum.html
... but, basically, nobody much knows for sure last I looked.
 
  • #3
I thought it was because hydrogen is very very small and likes to get in between everything, including atoms in the metal lattice.
 
  • #4
Well yeah - but hydrogen is particularly fond of doing that sort of thing with platinum-group metals.
The question is "how come?"

... actually, it says "why?" but I don't like "why" questions.

Note:
OP also has a question about hydrogen cells (specifically electrodes and gas-pressure stuff).
Platinum catalysis is something of a bugbear in PEM fuel cells but also in Pons/Fleischman type "cold-fusion" so I'm waiting for the other shoe to drop.

As usual, the specifics of the answer will depend on the context.
 
Last edited:

1. Why is platinum used for hydrogen adsorption?

Platinum is used for hydrogen adsorption because it has a high surface area and excellent catalytic properties. It also has a strong affinity for hydrogen atoms, making it an efficient adsorbent material.

2. How does platinum adsorb hydrogen?

Platinum adsorbs hydrogen through a process called chemisorption, where the hydrogen molecules bond with the platinum atoms on the surface of the material. This creates a strong bond between the platinum and hydrogen, allowing for efficient adsorption.

3. What factors affect platinum's ability to adsorb hydrogen?

The surface area and structure of the platinum material, as well as the temperature and pressure of the surrounding environment, can all affect platinum's ability to adsorb hydrogen. Higher surface area and lower temperatures typically result in greater hydrogen adsorption.

4. Can platinum adsorb other gases besides hydrogen?

Yes, platinum can adsorb other gases such as oxygen, carbon monoxide, and nitrogen. However, its ability to adsorb hydrogen is particularly strong due to the high electronegativity and stability of the platinum-hydrogen bond.

5. Is platinum a renewable resource for hydrogen adsorption?

No, platinum is not a renewable resource as it is a naturally occurring element. However, it can be recycled and reused in various industrial processes, making it a sustainable option for hydrogen adsorption. Efforts are also being made to develop alternative, renewable materials for hydrogen adsorption.

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