Data on the values of the absorption capacity of alloys of various systems in a wide range of concentrations of components, on the values ​ ​ of equilibrium pressures of hydrogen in hydrogen-hydride systems and comparative estimates of the rates of interaction of alloys with hydrogen are given. For individual groups of alloys, the features of the process of activation of alloys are indicated. The given thermodynamic and physicochemical characteristics, referred to specific temperature ranges, make it possible to reasonably select alloys and hydrides based on them for the development of metal hydride devices with given characteristics. For scientific and engineering workers in the metallurgical, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering industries.