Abstract
$AB_2$ type Zr-based Laves phases alloys have been studied for potential application as a negative electrode in a Ni-MH battery. The $AB_2$-type electrodes have a much higher energy density than $AB_5$-type electrodes per weight, however they have some disadvantages such as poor activation behavior and cycle life etc. Nonetheless, the $AB_2$-type electrodes have been studied very extensively due to their high energy density. In this study, in order to develop the cycle life, the Mn of $AB_2$ alloy composition was substituted partially by Mo. The alloys were melted by arc furnace and remelted 4-5 times for homogeneity. The alloy powder was used below 200-325 mesh for experiments. The structures and phases of the alloys were analyzed by XRD, SEM and EDS, and measured the curve of a pressure-composition isotherms. The electrodes were prepared by cold pressing of the copper-coated(25 wt%) alloy powders, and tested by a half cell. The results are summarized as follows. The cycle life was improved with the increase of Mo amount in $Zr_{1-x}Ti_xV_{0.4}Ni_{1.2}Mn_{0.4}Mo_y$(x=0.3, 0.4) and the activation was faster, whereas the discharge capacity decreased.