Investigation of Microbiologically Produced Hydrogen Permeation Through Palladium

Abstract

Many bacteria produce hydrogen as a by‐product of metabolism. Hydrogen produced in a biofilm adhering to a metal surface can absorb into the metal. In this study, hydrogen production and absorption were characterized through the use of pure cultures of bacteria and permeation measurements through a palladium foil. Test results indicate a clear correlation between the growth cycle of the bacteria and the permeation of hydrogen; differences between reactions of bacteria and reducing agents incorporated in nutrient solutions are also apparent. The implications of these data are discussed.