The Generation of Stibine by Storage Batteries

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Abstract
Stibine was detected in the gases evolved from lead storage batteries. A new method of analysis for the quantitative estimation of stibine was developed. It is an iodo‐starch colorimetric method. The quantity of SbH3 generated varies with the age and history of the battery. There is a very abrupt increase in the evolution of SbH3 upon the completion of charge of the battery. SbH3 formation is coincident with hydrogen evolution and the presence of metallic Sb is an essential factor. In the battery, metallic antimony is a component of the negative grid (cathode during charging) ; furthermore, metallic Sb is electro‐deposited on the surface of this cathode during charging and also deposited by electrochemical displacement when the battery is idle, antimony being more noble than lead in an acid sulfate solution. Direct tests show that the concentration of stibine in the atmosphere of battery rooms does not constitute a health hazard.

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