Abstract: The effects of nanometer CuO additive on the performance of La-rich AB5 type hydrogen storage alloy electrodes(HSAE) have been studied. The change of storage capacity and mass of the electrodes with CuO additive has been investigated, and the electrochemical performances of the electrodes have been tested. Cyclic voltammograms (CV) and SEM results indicated that CuO is reduced during first charging process and copper particleis deposited on the surface of the alloy. Electrochemical testing results showed that the electrode with additive has better rate capability and cycle performance. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy(EIS) analysis indicated that the electrode with additive CuO has higher activity and electrical conductivity, and lower ohmic and electrochemical impedance, which helps to improve the electrochemical properties of the electrode. Therefore the hydrogen storage alloy electrode with nanometer CuO would well meet the requirement for power sources of electric vehicles.

Key words: CuO, Hydrogen storage alloy, EIS, Electric vehicle