Inventors:
Edward S. Buzzelli - Kennesaw GA
William C. Thibault - Powder Springs GA
Assignee:
AER Energy Resources, Inc. - Atlanta GA
International Classification:
H01M 1048
H01M 1202
Abstract:
A rechargeable metal-air electrochemical cell comprising a hydrogen-oxygen recombination electrode recombines hydrogen produced at the anode with oxygen to replenish the supply of water in the cell. The cell comprises an oxygen gas-permeable, liquid water-impermeable air cathode disposed in the cell case such that the cell is substantially impermeable to liquid water and the cell can receive and discharge oxygen gas through an opening in the cell case. During the discharge mode of the cell, the recombination electrode is inactive, and during the recharge mode, the recombination electrode catalyzes the electrochemical recombination of hydrogen and oxygen in the cell to form water. According to another aspect, the cell can comprise a device for indicating the end of the charge mode by sensing the level of current between the cathode and the recombination electrode and comparing that current level to a predetermined current level. When the current level between the cathode and the recombination electrode exceeds the predetermined current level, the device indicates that the end of charge has been reached or can activate a recharge disconnect switch.