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Electrolyte concentration changes during operation of the nickel--cadmium cell. [6-, 12-, and 20-Ah cells]

Technical Report ·
OSTI ID:7343564
The concentration and distribution of aqueous potassium hydroxide (KOH) electrolyte in a sealed nickel--cadmium cell is considered. The reactions at both electrodes during charge and discharge involve the production or utilization of hydroxyl ion (OH) or water (H/sub 2/O), which directly affects concentration. Changes in electrolyte concentration relative to the individual electrode reactions is discussed. Quantitative values are provided for the changes in concentration for 6-, 12-, and 20-Ah cells with accepted quantities of precharge and accepted initial quantity of 31% aqueous KOH. Consideration is given to a more accurate equation which includes net changes in hydroxyl concentration in addition to water. Also, expected concentrations of electrolyte in cells in the fully charged, 75% charged, 50% charged, 25% charged, and discharged conditions are calculated. The expected concentration changes for cells in the accelerated tests are also tabulated and compared with measured values. All calculations are made on the assumption that there are no side reactions. Various properties which depend on KOH concentration are listed. The variables include O/sub 2/, H/sub 2/, and Cd(OH)/sub 2/ solubilities in addition to viscosity and conductivity. (auth)
Research Organization:
National Aeronautics and Space Administration, Greenbelt, Md. (USA). Goddard Space Flight Center
OSTI ID:
7343564
Report Number(s):
N-75-33497; NASA-TM-X-70977; X-711-75-135
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English