Abstract: This invention pertains to novel alkaline electrochemical cells having high drain capacities, especially cells having high drain rate capabilities at voltages of at least 1.1 volts for use in small appliances such as hearing aids. The anode includes anode material in the cells including potassium hydroxide, zinc powder, 0.02% to 0.5% of a reaction rate enabling compound selected from a compound of indium, cadmium, gallium, thallium, germanium, tin, or lead, with indium compounds being preferred. The anode material optionally further includes a low level of mercury, and preferably a surfactant comprising hydroxyethylcellulose. The cathode provides sufficient oxidative capability to oxidize the zinc at a sufficient rate to support the electrical drain demands on the cell. A cathode, in a preferred zinc air cell for a hearing aid, includes at least 5 air ports, evenly distributed over the surface of the bottom of the cathode can.

Abstract: This invention pertains to novel alkaline electrochemical cells having high drain capacities, especially cells having high drain rate capabilities at voltages of at least 1.1 volts for use in small appliances such as hearing aids. The anode includes anode material in the cells including potassium hydroxide, zinc powder, 0.02% to 0.5% indium as indium compound separate from the zinc powder, optionally a low level of mercury, and preferably a surfactant comprising hydroxyethylcellulose. The cathode provides sufficient oxidative capability to oxidize the zinc at a sufficient rate to support the electrical drain demands on the cell. A cathode, in a preferred zinc air cell for a hearing aid, includes at least 5 air ports, evenly distributed over the surface of the bottom of the cathode can. Cells of the invention exhibit prolonged operation at relatively constant voltage over 1.