The effects of rapid quenching on the electrochemical characteristics and microstructures of AB2 Laves phase electrode alloys

In order to improve the electrochemical characteristics of AB2 Laves phase electrode alloys, the rapid quenching technology was used in the preparation of AB2 type Ti- and Ti-Zr-based electrode alloys. The effects of the rapid quenching on the electrochemical characteristics and microstructures of AB2 Laves phase electrode alloys were investigated comprehensively. The experimental results showed that the effects of the rapid quenching on the electrochemical properties and microstructures of AB2 Laves phase electrode alloys were closely relevant with the compositions of the alloys. For Ti-based alloy, the capacity of the as-quenched alloy was enhanced obviously with the increase of the quenching rate, and a maximum capacity could be obtained at a certain quenching rate. The rapid quenching had little effect on the activation capability and improved the cycle stability slightly. For Ti-Zr-based alloy, the cycle stability was exalted significantly and the capacity and activation capability were reduced dramatically with the increase of the quenching rate. The main reason why the rapid quenching can modify the electrochemical performances of AB2 Laves phase electrode alloys was that it has obviously changed the microstructures of the alloys. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]