Performance of Anodes with Proper Active Metal Elements Added to the Al–0.16wt%In in Alkaline Electrolyte for Al-Air Batteries

Abstract

Wind energy and solar energy are stored in aluminum through low-temperature aluminum electrolysis, and then the distributed energy generation by metallic fuel cells realizes renewable energy utilization. Aluminum is an ideal material for metallic fuel cells. In this research, the performance of Al-air batteries based on pure Al, Al–0.16 wt%In, Al–0.16 wt%In–0.1 wt%Ga, Al–0.16 wt%In–0.5 wt%Bi, Al–0.16 wt%In–0.12 wt%Sn, and Al–0.16 wt%In–3 wt%Zn anodes in 4 M NaOH solution was investigated by galvanostatic discharge test. The electrochemical properties of the anodes were investigated in the same electrolyte using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and polarization curves. Battery performance was tested by constant current discharge at 20 mA cm−2 current density. The characteristics of the anodes after discharge were investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive analysis of X-ray (EDAX). Results confirm that compared with pure Al and Al–0.16 wt%In in 4 M NaOH, the electrochemical properties of Al–0.16 wt%In–0.1 wt%Ga anode restrains hydrogen evolution, improves electrochemical activity, and increases anodic utilization rate.