Development of a long cycle life sealed nickel-zinc battery for high energy-density applications

Abstract

Nickel-zinc battery technology is being developed for commercial applications requiring high energy density and high power capability. Current development cells have demonstrated the ability to deliver over 60 Wh per kilogram at the one hour rate and more than 450 W per kilogram at the 12C rate. Cycle life has been improved to more than 600 cycles at 80% depth of discharge by using a patented, reduced solubility zinc electrode and an improved sealed cell design. More than 7000 charge/discharge cycles at 10% depth-of-discharge have been completed. Large quantities of sealed prismatic cells have been manufactured, including a 220 V battery for a hybrid electric vehicle (HEV).