Solution for pressure measurement problems in finding PCT equilibrium characteristics of hydrogen getters

The extent of problems and limitations prevailing in the determination of pressure-concentration-temperature (PCT) equilibrium characteristics of metallic hydrogen getters are brought out in this work. This work also presents an approach to determine the equilibrium pressures at various wall and getter temperatures precisely. Results of an experimental study using a thermally stabilized Baratron gauge in combination with Spinning Rotor and Shultz-Phelps gauges in a thermostatically controlled ultra-low-leak vacuum system loaded with a zirconium alloy getter are reported. The work is relevant to the application of metallic getters for hydrogen isotope control and recovery in fusion research. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.