An electrochemical metal-air cell and electrically and mechanically rechargeable anodes for use therein

摘要

The invention provides an electrochemical metal-air cell, adapted for multiple discharge and recharge cycles, comprising a housing defining an interior space for containing therein a replaceable metal electrode having a generally planar electrically conductive skeletal member encompassed by an active metal component; at least one generally planar air permeable but liquid impermeable air electrode installed at at-least one of the sides of the housing; an electrolyte in contact with the metal and the air electrodes; and further comprising one or more auxiliary electrodes, each auxiliary electrode constituting a charging anode adapted to be engaged upon application of electric current thereto for effecting the reduction and regeneration of the active metal component in a first mode of operation, during which the air electrode is disengaged, and to be disengaged in a second mode of operation, wherein the metal electrode is configured for removal from the interior space to enable the mechanical replacement thereof as well as being rechargeable in situ by the application of electric current to the auxiliary charging anode to reduce oxidized active metal thereof.