Hi, I'm trying to make a H2 generator for *part* of a science fair project. I've got 6 Stainless Steel outlet covers from Lowes (I don't know what grade, I've heard that 316 is the best) that I have wired up. I alternate positive and negative plates. (no neutral) I'm using distilled water with some sea salt as an electrolyte. (I don't know if sea salt is any different than table salt for this experiment, the only difference should be the presence of iodine...?) I've also got a boat/RV battery charger that is putting out 12 VDC and 12 Amps. (I've noticed the amps go up if I use more salt, I'm not purposefully putting in more, but should I try to put in less?)
Here is my question:
A thick brown sludge forms at the top of my container, and not much hydrogen is made, compared to what I have seen online. This video has an excellent example of the sludge I get, start at about 6:30 when it is turned on. (
) As noted in the video, my experiment results say that the sludge DOES seemingly cause less hydrogen to be made and the sludge IS very conductive and short circuits my cell.
Bottom Line: What is this sludge and how can I keep it from forming?
Also, I have access to Sodium Hydroxide (pure) and also could use Iodized Salt or Baking Soda. In fact, I'm desperate enough to try ANY reasonable electrolyte to get rid of the sludge. (if the electrolyte is the problem)
Finally, I've chosen electrolysis to make the H2, but I've also read of chemechal reactions to make it, like out of sodium hydroxide and aluminum foil. I've never read much from people who have tried this, would this be a good (safe-ish) alternative?
