A similarity was found between the observed unusual H permeation through Al membranes upon applying cathodic polarization in alkaline solutions, and the H transport through a Pd membrane upon applying an increased H pressure (Lewis effect). Data on electrochemical measurements of H permeation through Al were analyzed and rationalized from the point of view of the H transport involved due to the gradient of the concentration and the gradient of the strain introduced upon applying cathodic polarization. Possible origins of the surface stress and of the strain produced in Al during cathodic polarization were considered, and the implications of the effect for determining the H diffusion coefficient in Al and for the H-induced degradation of Al were shown.

Effect of the Self-Induced Strain on the Hydrogen Permeation through Al. E.Lunarska, O.Chernyayeva: International Journal of Hydrogen Energy, 2006, 31[2], 237-46