Alternative separation evaluations in model rechargeable silver–zinc cells

Several varieties of standard and reinforced, cellulose-based, sausage casing films derived from wood pulp have been evaluated in model (nominal 28 A h) rechargeable silver–zinc cells. The cell performance data for both cycle life and wet stand life have been compared with cells equipped with conventional 1 mil (0.025 mm) cellophane. Although shorting was the most common failure mode in the cells with sausage casing separation, remarkably good cycle and wet life were obtained when the separation wrap also included PVA film. This paper reports the cycle and wet life comparison data for these substitute separators, with respect to conventional cellophane separation, as well as separation physical property data and silver migration rates in the cells as a function of cell life.