Heat generation during overcharge of Ni/H2 cells

Information is given in viewgraph form on the heat generation during overcharge of nickel hydrogen cells. The heat dissipated during various rates of charge and overcharge was measured, using a radiative type calorimeter. Measurements made during the charging of the cell indicated that the total heat was greatest for C/10 charge, compared with C/2 or C/4. The endothermic to exothermic transition occurred at 1.43 V for C/10 charge, and increased to 1.467 V at C/2 charge. The magnitude of the endothermic heat was only 3.7 percent of the total heat generated during charging. Experimentally measured values were compared against those calculated using a thermoneutral potential of 1.51 V. Although there was general agreement between the calculated and measured values, a significant difference existed in the instantaneous heat values for the initial stages of cell discharge. Heat dissipated during self-discharge appears to depend on the charge rate preceding open circuit stand.