The authors contend that, for use in storage cells, lead should be alloyed only with metals electronegative to it. A comparative study was made of the electrochemical behavior of pure lead, a 9 per cent lead‐antimony alloy (standard for many storage batteries today) and a 0.1 per cent lead‐calcium alloy. It was found that on static discharge the Pb‐Sb alloy sulfates in approximately 1/9 of the time required for pure Pb and 1/10 the time required for the Pb‐Ca alloy. Anodically and cathodically the behavior of the Pb‐Ca alloy is similar to that of pure Pb but quite distinct from that of the Pb‐Sb alloy. The indicated electrochemical superiority of Pb‐Ca alloy over Pb‐Sb alloy was confirmed by actual battery tests. It was found that Pb‐Ca cells retain their charge for far longer periods than Pb‐Sb cells and, also, that they are more efficient. No undue corrosion of Pb‐Ca grids was observed. The Pb‐Ca alloy is recommended for storage battery grids in place of the Pb‐Sb alloy and for Planté type plates in place of lead.
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Haring et al. (1935) studied this question.