ELECTROCHEMICAL EVALUATION OF LANI5-XGEX METAL HYDRIDE ALLOYS

We report a detailed evaluation of Ge-substituted LaNi5 for electroche mical application as a negative electrode in alkaline rechargeable cel ls. Alloys with small substitutions of Ge for Ni show operating pressu res, chargeability, cyclic lifetime, and kinetics for hydrogen absorpt ion and desorption all superior to those found in many other substitut ed LaNi, alloys. These improved properties were achieved with a minima l reduction in hydrogen storage capacity.