Hydrogen isotopes in palladium

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    Hydrogen Isotopes
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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the ability of palladium to absorb hydrogen isotopes, specifically deuterium and tritium, and the implications of isotopic differences on this property. The scope includes theoretical considerations and chemical behavior related to isotopes in a material context.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant notes that palladium can hold hydrogen isotopes, questioning whether palladium can also hold isotopes of hydrogen.
  • Another participant explains that while isotopes have no electronic differences, their increased mass affects reaction rates and transport, suggesting that deuterium and tritium are relevant in discussions about palladium's properties.
  • A participant raises a question about whether the property of palladium to hold isotopes depends on the electrostatic charge of the atom.
  • A later reply clarifies that different isotopes of hydrogen do not have different electrostatic charges, questioning the relevance of this factor.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

The discussion includes differing views on the relevance of electrostatic charge in relation to isotopes, with some participants questioning its significance while others focus on mass effects. No consensus is reached on the implications of these factors.

Contextual Notes

Participants discuss the practical implications of isotopes with varying half-lives, noting that heavier isotopes may not be as relevant due to their short half-lives.

Ben.meyer
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I realize that Palladium has a molecular property to hold immense amounts of hydrogen, but can Palladium also “hold” isotopes of hydrogen.
 
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Yes, there are no electronic differences between isotopes. The chemical difference is due to the increased mass, making reactions and transport slower. (This effect becomes negligible for heavier elements, by the way.) Practically speaking, isotopes above tritium have too short half-lives to be interesting in this case, but both Deuterium (2H) and Tritium (3H) have been discussed in relation to Palladium. I know Pd has been suggested as a safe way of storing and handling Tritium, for example.
 
But wouldn't this property depend on the electrostatic charge of the atom?

Thanks in advance
 
Ben.meyer said:
But wouldn't this property depend on the electrostatic charge of the atom?

Thanks in advance

Different isotopes of hydrogen do not have different electrostatic charges. So why would this be an issue?

Zz.
 

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