Project Title:

High-Energy-Density, Nickel-Metal-Hydride Batteries

92-1-10.07-1750                                                   NAS05-32435
High-Energy-Density, Nickel-Metal-Hydride Batteries
Ovonic Battery Company
1826 Northwood Drive
Troy, MI  48084
Srini Venkatesan                                     (313-362-1750)

Abstract:

     This project will demonstrate the performance characteristics
of a high-energy-density, rechargeable battery based on the
nickel-metal-hydride system with an energy density of 70 Wh/Kg and
over 200 Wh/l. These values are almost three times that of a lead-
acid and more than two times that of a nickel-cadmium system.
Nickel-metal-hydride batteries, under development by the firm for
some time, have demonstrated good energy density, easy
manufacturability, and environmentally benign disposition. By
utilizing some of the new high-specific-capacity, metal-hydride-
alloy negative electrodes and new lightweight positive electrodes,
the project will fabricate and test prismatic starved cells of
greater than 5 Ah, yielding 70 Wh/Kg in gravimetric energy density
and more than 200 Wh/l in volumetric energy density. The cells
will be tested for capacity, rate capability, and temperature
performance. Phase II will make and test many individual
prismatic, starved cells. Once reproducible results are obtained,
Phase II will make and test battery modules using these individual
cells.

Potential Commercial Application:

Potential Commercial Applications:  This technology can be used on
earth in portable computers, cordless power tools, cellular
telephones, walkie-talkie radios, medical appliances, household
battery-operated appliances, toys, and portable c.d. players.
These batteries will be useful to equipment manufacturers and
designers who have sought long-running and high-powered cordless
power sources.

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