FORMATION OF ANODIC POROUS ALUMINA IN OXALIC ACID AND ELECTRODEPOSITION OF NI.

Abstract

Nanoporous anodic aluminum oxide (AAO) tubular membranes were fabricated from aluminum alloy tubes in sulfuric and oxalic acid electrolytes using a two-step anodization process. The membranes were investigated for characteristics such as pore size, interpore distance and thickness by varying applied voltage and electrolyte concentration. Morphology of the membranes was examined using light optical and scanning electron microscopy and characterized using Image software. Results showed that membranes having narrow pore size and uniform pore distribution with parallel channel arrays were obtained. The pore sizes were ranging from 10 to 100 nm and the wall thicknesses 60 μm. The catalysts are obtained by impregnation of 3d metals into nanosized pores of aluminum oxide. The obtained catalysts based on nickel and porous Al2O3 are studied by scanning microscopy (SEM-EDX). The results of SEM-EDX analysis shows that a spongy structure with filament sizes of 100 nanometers containing particles of 3d metals formed on the surface of the aluminum oxide matrix.