Anodes of Al alloyed with Zn for seawater batteries

Abstract

Alloys of Al with 1.2, 5.2 or 9.5% by weight Zn were discharged in simulated seawater at 19–25°C. Current densities of 25.5 to 0.63 mA cm −2 gave discharges lasting from about 13 h to 28 days. Production of electrical current during discharge accounted for 67–80% of the weight loss from the anodes. Anode potential changed less than 0.1 V during discharges at rates that lasted three or more days. Discharge products were voluminous but did not form adherent, passivating films. The Al-Zn alloys have a low self-discharge rate in seawater. It was concluded that Al-Zn alloys can give useful anodes in seawater batteries.