Aspects of calcium oxyhalide primary cells

This thesis investigates the use of calcium in the class of high energy density oxyhalide battery systems. Comparisons are made with the more researched and better established lithium based systems. A comprehensive literature review is presented, which outlines work performed over the past decade on this relatively new topic. Physical properties of the electrolyte and investigations into cell failure by both anode and cathode passivation are presented. Addition of sulphur dioxide to the electrolyte is shown to have a significant effect on these parameters. Raman spectroscopy is used to analyse electrolyte solutions for any sulphur dioxide species produced during discharge and an isoteniscopic vapour pressure method is used to monitor corresponding internal cell pressures. The final chapter contains a BASIC computer program, based on a mathematical model, which predicts internal cell temperatures produced during discharge of a calcium/lithium oxyhalide battery. A range of safe operating conditions is indicated.