ELECTRODE PASSIVATION STUDIES
Abstract
The operation of primary, reserve batteries in a passive mode was explored. An anode can be put into the passive state by an appropriate electrical pulse and can be maintained in this condition by suitable connection to the positive battery electrode. Activation can be achieved by a cathodic electrical pulse. The most promising systems for use as passive anodes were Zn- Co and Zn-Ni alloys. Zinc itself shows a characteristic active-passive transition, but the passive current is too high for use in the passive reserve mode. Alloys 78 Zn - 22 Co and 80 Zn - 20 Ni have acceptably high critical currents and low passive currents. However, at best, the passive current is still about 5 microamperes per sq. cm. A comparison of primary reserve batteries operated in the passive mode with batteries activated by conventional gas generators shows that the passive current must be less than 1 microampere per sq. cm. for the passive battery to be competitive. Preferably the passive current should be less than 0.1 microampere per sq. cm.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 01, 1967
- Accession Number
- AD0812075
Entities
People
- A. C. Makrides
- A. J. Bradspies
- S. B. Brummer