Zinc/mercuric oxide batteries storage

Miniature zinc-mercuric oxide batteries function efficiently over a wide range of temperatures and have good storage life. 

Fig. 14. Retention of discharge capacity of miniature zinc—mercuric oxide batteries after storage at temperatures of A, 40°C B, 20°C and C, 0°C (21).

The alkaline zinc/mercuric oxide battery is noted for its high capacity per unit volume, constant voltage output, and good storage eharacteristics. The system has been known for over a century, but it was not until World War II that a practical battery was developed by Samuel Ruben in response to a requirement for a battery with a high capacity-to-volume ratio which would withstand storage under tropical conditions. - ... 

Zinc/mercuric oxide batteries have good storage characteristics. In general they will store for over 2 years at 20°C with a capacity loss of 10 to 20% and 1 year at 45°C with about a 20% loss. Storage at lower temperatures, such as down to -20°C, will, as with other battery systems, increase storage life. 

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