Rechargeable zinc-carbon hybrid cells

A rechargeable zinc-carbon-bromine-complex cell with an immobilised electrolyte is described. The cell resembles a cylindrical Leclanché cell with an outside zinc can and a carbon-rod containing bobbin. A membrane-type separator prevents shorting on charge. Unlike a Leclanché cell, which has a very limited rechargeability, this zinc-carbon-bromine-complex system can deliver high currents with excellent rechargeability after many complete discharges and is insensitive to cell reversal. Organic complexing agents and additives bind or intercalate the bromine which is formed on charge and overcharge. ‘Hybrid cells’ with MnO2 and graphite-containing cathodes have a useful initial capacity and show a better shelf-life than the simple zinc-carbon-bromine system.