Density functional study on the mechanics, thermodynamics, and H diffusion mechanism of LiH.

LiH is valued by researchers and engineers for its high-temperature resistance, high strength, high hydrogen storage capacity of up to 12.6 wt%, and high neutron absorption cross section. However, sintering and application of this material are difficult. Lithium hydride is a highly effective neutron shielding material. The neutron shielding ability of lithium hydride is directly affected by the homogeneity of the total amount and distribution of hydrogen. The heat migration of hydrogen reduces the neutron shielding effectiveness of lithium hydride. It is critical to forecast H's diffusion behavior. The diffusion coefficient is a critical metric for determining the diffusion efficiency. As a result, the stability, electronic structure, and bonding properties of LiH, LiOH, and H entering the tetrahedral interstitial sites of LiH were calculated using first principles based on density functional theory (DFT). The elastic modulus of the system was also examined to find the lowest thermal conductivity, and some thermodynamic parameters were derived by calculating LiH phonons. Finally, static calculations were used to determine the diffusion coefficient and diffusion activation energy of H in the LiH solid solution. The results revealed that the addition of H altered the characteristics of the LiH semiconductor, giving it metallic features. The lowest thermal conductivity of the LiH system was 2.9. W·m−1 K−1. The diffusion coefficient was D = (2.638 × 10 − 2 c m 2 / s ) exp ( − 5.811 × 10 − 3 cal / K B T). The activation energy for diffusion was 0.252 eV. The diffusion coefficients, elastic constants, and lattice parameters all corresponded well with previously published results. The density functional theory was employed to study the material's system energy and electrical structure, and the microscopic migratory behavior of hydrogen was predicted theoretically. The calculation of the lowest thermal conductivity provided a reference for the screening of ceramic materials. • First-principles calculations can allow for a better understanding of the H diffusion mechanism in LiH materials. • Diffusion from the LiH surface to the interior of the material requires greater energy drive. • The introduction of interstitial H atoms can make LiH have metal properties. • The lowest thermal conductivity of the material can provide a reference for the selection of ceramic materials. • LiOH is more thermally stable than LiH. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]