HIGH-PRESSURE PERFORMANCE OF VOLTAIC CELLS.
Abstract
Measurements were taken on the open-circuit voltage of a magnesium-copper electrolytic couple immersed in seawater under pressures up to 18,000 psi. The cell voltage was not affected by pressure from a vacuum of 3 centimeters of mercury to a pressure of 18,000 psi. Measurements were also taken on the voltage of a lead-acid cell immersed in oil under pressures from atmospheric to 20,000 psi. Results indicate that cell performance is unaffected by pressure in this range. Two theories are discussed which attempt to explain the fact that the observed open-circuit voltage of the Mg - Cu cell is more than a volt below the voltage calculated from half-reaction potentials. One theory assumes that adsorbed H atoms alter the work function of the electrode; the other theory proposes that, when magnesium dissolves in water, equilibrium is too far on the side of complete reaction in one direction to allow measurement of the free energy of formation of the aqueous magnesium ion. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1966
- Accession Number
- AD0627931
Entities
People
- R. D. Hitchcock
Organizations
- Naval Facilities Engineering Service Center