Abstract: An improved battery utilizing a hydrogen rechargeable anode of a disordered non-equilibrium multicomponent material including one or more elements forming a host matrix and at least one modifier element incorporated therein. The anode is capable of electrochemically absorbing hydrogen from an electrolyte during application of a charging current thereto. The hydrogen is stored in the anode bulk until discharge is initiated, whereupon an electrical current is produced when the hydrogen is released. The superior battery of the invention has attained high density energy storage, efficient reversibility, high electrical efficiency, bulk hydrogen storage without structural change or poisoning and hence long cycle life and deep discharge capability.

Abstract: An anode for hydrogen oxidation in a fuel cell is formed from a host matrix including at least one transition element which is structurally modified by the incorporation of at least one modifier element to improve its catalytic properties. The catalytic body is based on a disordered non-equilibrium material designed to have a high density of catalytically active sites, resistance to poisoning, and long operating life. Modifier elements, including Ti, Mo, Zr, Mg, V, Si or Al, structurally modify the local chemical environments of a nickel or other transition element host matrix to form the catalytic materials of the anode. The improved low overvoltage catalytic materials of the anode of the present invention increase the operating efficiencies of fuel cells employing such anodes. The catalytic materials can be deposited as a layer on the surface of porous electrode substrates to form a gas diffusion anode or can be formed as a gas diffusion electrode.

Abstract: A relatively high surface area electrode is provided which can be utilized as an anode for extended periods of time without replacement in an electrolytic reaction in which oxygen is evolved. The anode of the present invention comprises a carbonaceous fibrous material (e.g. a fabric, tow, or felt) which bears a surface coating of a mixed crystal material consisting essentially of ruthenium oxide and titanium oxide. The anode is particularly suited for usage in the removal of harmful contaminants (i.e. organic or inorganic contaminants) from waste streams even when present in relatively low concentrations.