Aeronutronic Ford Corporation

Ford Aerospace & Communications Corporation

Donald C Briggs

Ronald J Haas

This application discloses a secondary fuel cell having improved electrode zones. Each cell has two electrode zones each containing a pair of electrode structures. A first such electrode structure in each zone is more efficient in operation during discharge of the fuel cell. Electrical structure is provided so that the first electrode structures are utilized during charging of the fuel cell and the second electrode structures are utilized during discharge of the fuel cell. The size and configuration of each of the electrode structures is a variable depending upon the particular cycle the fuel cell is to be subjected to in operation.

Secondary fuel cell

A rechargeable electrochemical cell is disclosed which includes both a cathode and a gas generating and consuming anode housed within a closed container. A closed volume is provided within the container for storing the gas used by the cell. A separator and electrolyte storage material is located between the electrodes of the cell. A reservoir is formed of a material capable of storing electrolyte. This reservoir is in liquid transfer contact with the separator and electrolyte storage material between the electrodes. If any electrolyte of the cell stored in the separator and electrolyte storage material is vaporized into the gas storage volume, such electrolyte is replaced by transfer of electrolyte from the reservoir to the separator and electrolyte storage material.

Electrochemical cell of a rechargeable nature

A rechargeable electrochemical cell is disclosed which includes both a cathode and a gas generating and consuming anode housed within a closed container. A storage volume is provided within the container for storing the gas used by the cell. A capillary mat lining material is provided throughout the gas storage volume of the cell. This lining material is in liquid transfer contact with a separator and electrolyte storage material located between the electrodes of the cell. If any electrolyte (i.e. water) of the cell is vaporized into the gas storage volume, the electrolyte will condense on the lining material and be conducted back to the separator and electrolyte storage material positioned between the electrodes.

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Mountain View, CA, United States of America

Donald C Briggs