Electrochemical formation and behavior of silver and lead chlorides as potential cathodes for quasi-rechargeable magnesium seawater cell

Abstract

Primary seawater magnesium-based cell with AgCl or PbCl2 cathodes is widely used as power sources. In this paper, we consider the cyclic galvanostatic formation of silver and lead chlorides and their electrochemical behavior for potential applications in the new concept of the seawater quasi-rechargeable magnesium cell. For potential cells, the voltage for Mg alloy AZ63 and AgCl is ~ 1.5 V, and for the PbCl2, ~ 1 V. High discharge specific capacity, energy, and power are obtained under the very high discharge rate. It is also presented that systems could be potentially used in emergency situations for a few days up to a few weeks as a power source in the life-saving boat for sporadic emitting GPS-SOS tacking signals and night signal lights.