Self-discharge of the alkaline iron electrode

The self-discharge reaction, which is a hydrogen-evolving corrosion process, where the anode reaction is identical to the first discharge step, has been studied by three different methods: H₂-evolution, polarization curves and potentiodynamic discharge. The influence of 28 additives at 30, 50 and 70°C on both discharge and self-discharge is shown. Most additives decrease both the self-discharge and discharge rates but for K₂S and hydrazinesulphate added to the electroylte. These two additives have a positive influence on the discharge process of the iron electrode.