52 - Silver batteries

Abstract

This chapter provides an overview of silver batteries. Four types of silver batteries are discussed: silver-zinc batteries, silver-cadmium (secondar) batteries, silver-hydrogen secondary batteries, and silver-iron secondary batteries. Specification of all the batteries discussed is provided according to their manufacturers. Silver-zinc primary batteries can be remotely activated for single use within seconds or fractions of a second even after long-term storage, by inserting the electrolyte under pressure. The Yardney silver-cadmium (secondary) battery combines in one system the high energy and excellent space and weight characteristics of the silver-zinc battery with the long life, low-rate characteristics with some resistance to overcharge characteristic of the nickel-cadmium batteries. It provides high efficiency, an extended shelf life in charged or uncharged conditions, level voltage and mechanical ruggedness. Energy densities are two to three times greater than for a comparable nickel-cadmium battery. The major application for the high-rate series is for service conditions where maximum energy density and voltage regulation at high rates of discharge are required throughout a cycle life of 6-18 months. The system also has an exceptional ability to retain its charge during long periods of wet storage. The major application for the low-rate series is for service conditions in which maximum energy density and voltage regulation at low rates of discharge are required throughout a cycle life of 12-36 months.