Influence of annealing treatment on Laves phase compound containing a V-based BCC solid solution phase - Part II: Electrochemical properties

As the second part, the effects of annealing treatment on the electrochemical properties of two multi-component Laves phase hydrogen storage alloys containing BCC solid solution are reported in this paper. It is found that the discharge capacity, the activation property, the cycle life and the high rate dischargeability of both alloys are improved after annealing treatment. However, the exchange current density I₀ and the limiting current density I_L decrease. The changes in electrochemical properties have been discussed related to the changes in crystal structures as have been reported in the first part. It is concluded that the overall electrochemical properties of the hydrogen storage alloys can be improved greatly by an appropriate annealing treatment.