Abstract
In this paper, we study the technology of producing a LaNi₅-based alloy by spark plasma sintering (SPS) for hydrogen storage. Preliminary mechanical activation and mechanical synthesis were carried out using lanthanum (La) and nickel (Ni) metal powders in mass ratios of 20:1 and 30:1. The prepared powder mixtures were placed in a graphite matrix with a diameter of 20 mm, pre-pressed and sintered on an ISKRA spark plasma sintering unit at a temperature of 1250 °C and constant pressure in a vacuum environment. X-ray diffractometry was used for phase analysis of the synthesized samples, as a result of which phase transformations and crystalline features of the alloy structure were determined. As a result, it was found that the LaNi₅ phase is formed. In addition to the main phase, La₂O₃ oxide was also detected, which indicates partial oxidation of the material. In addition, the morphology and microstructure of the material were studied using a scanning electron microscope, which allowed us to characterize the surface structure and particle size distribution of the obtained samples. The results of the study confirmed the effectiveness of the mechanical synthesis and spark plasma sintering method for obtaining a LaNi₅-based material for hydrogen storage and made it possible to determine the effect of synthesis parameters on the phase composition and microstructural characteristics of the obtained material.