Abstract: A zinc alloy for use in zinc-alkaline batteries having improved gassing properties includes a bismuth-indium intermetallic compound in an amount sufficient to improve the gassing properties of the alloy, and with the major part of the alloy being zinc that is substantially free of lead and mercury. The bismuth-indium intermetallic is preferably present in the form of segregates located at the intergrain boundaries. The bismuth and indium are preferably present in an amount between 50 and 10,000 ppm, and more preferably 200 to about 1000 ppm, and most preferably about 300 ppm. The weight ratio of bismuth to indium is preferably from about 46:54 to about 50:50, and more preferably about 48:52. Magnesium, calcium and aluminum may also be present.