Abstract: Ni-Fe rechargeable batteries possess the advantages of long cycle life, high theoretical specific energy, abundant raw material, low price and environmental friendship. It has a wide applied perspective. The advantages, disadvantages and preparation methods of iron electrodes were summarized. The influence of four factors on discharge capacity and self-discharge rate of iron electrode were discussed by means of orthogonal experiments, galvanostatic charges and discharges. The influences of graphite on the discharge capacity and self-discharge rate of iron electrode were the most remarkable, the most unapparent influences on the discharge capacity and self-discharge rate were HPMC (hydroxyl propoxy methoxy cellulose) and sodium sulphide, respectively. The aim of the present research was to study the effects of graphite, HPMC and iron powder added in the electrodes, sodium sulphide added in the electrolytes on the discharge capacity and self-discharge rate of iron electrodes. The largest discharge capacity of the iron electrodes was 488.5 mAh/g-Fe at 66.4 mA/g-Fe in the first ten cycles, and the average self-discharge rate was 0.367% per hour.

Key words: Iron electrode, Discharge capacity, Self-discharge rate, Ni-Fe battery