The Effect of the Positive Electrode Properties on the Activation Time of the Lead–Perchloric Acid–Lead Dioxide-Based Reserve Chemical Power Sources

The influence of the positive electrode properties on the activation time of the reserve chemical power sources based on the lead–perchloric acid–lead dioxide system is studied. Coatings of cathodes with lead dioxide obtained under various conditions are characterized by scanning electron spectroscopy, X-ray spectral microanalysis, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and standard contact porosimetry. The improvement of the performance characteristics of the power sources including the ensuring of a short time of their activation at a low temperature is shown to be possible with the use of a lead dioxide nanoporous coating. To evaluate the applicability of cathodes for the manufacturing of power sources with a minimal activation time, a diagnostic principle is used that it based on the testing of the cathodes by chronopotentiometric measurements during their galvanostatic discharge. Pilot industrial samples of small-sized reserve power sources of the above-mentioned electrochemical system with unprecedented short activation time (less than 30 ms at temperature –50°С) were manufactured and tested.