Evaluation program for secondary spacecraft cells: Evaluation of storage methods, open circuit versus continuous trickle charge, Sonotone 3.5 ampere-hour sealed nickel-cadmium secondary spacecraft cells

Abstract

Twenty-five cells were used in a five-year test to compare, after each successive one-year storage period, the discharge and charge characteristics of charged cells on open circuit versus that of cells on continuous trickle charge. The test procedure, instrumentation, and results are described. Based on the test results, the following recommendations were made: (1) If the user's purpose will allow a rejuvenation cycle or two after a long storage period, the open circuit regime will likely give slightly greater capacity. (2) If the user's purpose demands immediately available power following a long storage period, the trickle charge method of storage is definitely the regime to use.