Silver-zinc (Ag-Zn)
Silver-zinc cells are used for making primary and secondary (rechargeable) batteries. In cells for primary batteries, the anode is in zinc and the cathode in silver oxide. In cells for secondary batteries, the anode is in zinc oxide and the cathode in silver. In both cases, the electrolyte is based on potassium hydroxide. The output voltage is 1.65 V.
The main applications for argent-zinc cells are in defence (torpedoes). Other applications include guidance, steering and pump activation on the Ariane launch vehicle.
In military applications, rechargeable batteries are used for exercises and primary batteries for operations. For reasons of safety and performance (shelf life over 8 years), the batteries are only activated, by electrolyte injection, at the last minute.
Silver-zinc batteries have a high energy density and power.