PowerGenix Technology In-Depth



Nickel-zinc batteries are chemically similar to nickel-metal hydride. Both use an alkaline electrolyte and a nickel electrode but differ significantly in their voltage. The nickel-zinc cell delivers more than 0.4V of additional voltage both at open circuit and under load.

Comparing The Charge - Discharge Reactions

H2O + Zn + 2NiOOH = ZnO +2Ni(OH)2 

Nickel-Metal Hydride
MH + NiOOH = M + Ni(OH)2

With the additional 0.4V per cell, an inherent value of the nickel-zinc cell lies in the reduced cell count required for a multi-cell battery.  For higher voltage applications the advantages associated with fewer cells are quickly apparent through a smaller footprint, lighter weight, and lower impedance battery.

Before PowerGenix was able to make available the advantages of the nickel-zinc battery chemistry they needed to solve the technical problems associated with the instability of the zinc electrode in a rechargeable cell. The cornerstone of this solution was found in a patented electrolyte formulation that reduces zinc solubility and prevents dendrite shorting problems.

The capabilities of the cell were further enhanced with patented advancements in both the positive and negative electrode composition that eliminate the inclusion of toxic material. Additionally, the company has a strong and broad intellectual property position that addresses all major aspects of the cell chemistry as well as engineering and construction details that enable the use of existing nickel-metal hydride manufacturing equipment for production of the cells.

  • Nickel-Zinc Cell ComponentsHigh power densities up to 3000W/kg are facilitated by fast zinc electrode kinetics, highly conductive substrates and a highly ionically conductive alkaline electrolyte.
  • These high power densities can be achieved while maintaining energy densities in excess of 70 Wh/kg.
  • The technology is inherently safe and able to withstand all standard automotive abuse tests without incident even in battery sizes exceeding 100Ah.