Studies on the interaction of hydrogen with Li2TiO3 pebbles and pellets

Hydrogen interaction with lithium titanate (Li2TiO3) pebbles of diameter in the range of 300–600μm has been studied at various temperatures and pressures. It was found that solid solubility of hydrogen in Li2TiO3 is substantially less. Thermogravimetric study of the pebbles in hydrogen atmosphere indicates substantial mass losses. Pebbles change its original brilliant white colour to dark blue in hydrogen atmosphere. Microstructural analysis of pebbles exposed in hydrogen atmosphere indicates the development of multiple micro cracks on the pebbles surface which significantly degrades the mechanical integrity of the pebbles. It was found that the hydrogen exposed pebbles regain its mass and original colour when re-heated in open atmosphere. However, the microcracks developed on the pebbles surface remain unaffected. The effect of hydrogen on the density of the Li2TiO3 pellets has also been studied and found that it is decreasing with exposure time of hydrogen atmosphere.