Additive for non-aqueous electrochemical cell stability

摘要

A nonaqueous electrochemical cell contains a metal salt additive such as an alkaline earth metal or alkali metal nitrate or nitrite e.g. lithium nitrate (LiNO3) or calcium nitrate Ca(NO3)2 which reduces the reactivity of substantially the entire active cathode surface. Electrolyte solvents such as proplyene carbonate are thereby substantially prevented from reacting, on the surface of the cathode, with oxidizing agents within the cell. Decomposition of the electrolyte solvent with gaseous evolution is substantially reduced and cell stability is enhanced. The metal salt additives are preferably dispersed throughout the cathode and are particularly useful in nonaqueous cells containing manganese dioxide cathodes.