Gas-pressure studies with Li(Si)/FeS/sub 2/ thermal batteries

A study was undertaken to monitor the internal gas pressure of Li(Si)/FeS/sub 2/ thermal batteries during discharge via a pressure transducer attached to the battery case. Factors that could influence the pressure were examined and include temperature, FeS/sub 2/ particle size, catholyte composition, catholyte processing, anode composition, discharge load, and the presence of Li/sub 2/O in the separator. Representative gas samples were also taken during discharge for analysis by gas chromatography. The gas pressure was strongly influenced by the migration of electrolyte from the separator into the catholyte and anode during activation and discharge, which affected the gettering of gases by the anode.<>