ZINC-AIR HYBRID FUEL CELLS.

Two zinc-air fuel cells, labeled hybrid because they have the characteristics of a fuel cell and a battery, are being developed for use with forward-area tactical communication and surveillance equipment. Mechanically rechargeable by replacing the anodes and electrolyte, the batteries will supply a nominal 24 volts for a life of approximately 1,000 hours in 20- and 48-ampere-hour models. One version is designed to power radios with high drain rates during extended transmission periods, a blower increasing the airflow to supply peak pulse power is required. The other model will provide power over longer periods to relatively low-drain equipment, such as surveillance and countermeasure sets. In the radio application, the battery has successfully powered both ANPRC-47 and ANPRC-41 radios. Matching standard storage batteries in size and width, the zinc-air cells vary in height to accommodate the different-size cells. Several models are being fabricated in battery form for laboratory and field testing. Author