Jerry Michael Bell

US Patent:

43751270, Mar 1, 1983

Filed:

Sep 5, 1980

Appl. No.:

6/184586

Inventors:

Perry E. Elkins - Santa Ana CA
Jerry E. Bell - Santa Ana CA
Richard A. Harlow - Newport Beach CA
Gordon G. Chase - San Diego CA

Assignee:

Ford Motor Company - Dearborn MI

International Classification:

H01M 1039
H01M 208
H01M 1038

US Classification:

296235

Abstract:

A method of initially assembling and then subsequently hermetically sealing a container portion of an alkali metal battery to a ceramic portion of such a battery is disclosed. Sealing surfaces are formed respectively on a container portion and a ceramic portion of an alkali metal battery. These sealing surfaces are brought into juxtaposition and a material is interposed therebetween. This interposed material is one which will diffuse into sealing relationship with both the container portion and the ceramic portion of the alkali metal battery at operational temperatures of such a battery. A pressure is applied between these sealing surfaces to cause the interposed material to be brought into intimate physical contact with such juxtaposed surfaces. A temporary sealing material which will provide a seal against a flow of alkali metal battery reactants therethrough at room temperatures and is applied over the juxtaposed sealing surfaces and material interposed therebetween. The entire assembly is heated to an operational temperature so that the interposed material diffuses into the container portion and the ceramic portion to form a hermetic seal therebetween.