Iron-air batteries generate electricity through a reversible rusting process. During discharge, iron reacts with oxygen from the air to form iron oxide (rust), releasing energy.
In more detail:
- Discharge Phase: Iron reacts with oxygen in the air, creating iron oxide (rust) and releasing electrical energy. This is the battery's power-delivery phase. According to research, "During discharge, iron reacts with oxygen from the air to form rust (iron oxide), releasing energy." (19-Aug-2024)
- Recharge Phase: The rust (iron oxide) is reverted back to iron using an external energy source, regenerating the battery for the next discharge cycle. While the reference doesn't specifically detail the recharge process, it's the necessary reverse reaction that allows for multiple uses of the battery.
