RESERVE BATTERY

"A non-rechargeable battery that is stored in an ""inactive"" form until its intended, immediate use. E.g., the battery is stored ""dry,"" and it can be activated by injection of the electrolyte. Or, a battery operating with molten salt electrolyte is stored at a temperature below the electrolyte melting point, and it is activated by the sudden application of heat to melt the electrolyte. The advantages of such arrangements are an extremely long shelf life without practically any loss of stored energy, and the possibility to produce a very powerful battery with very reactive chemicals that would otherwise cause a very fast self discharge. Most reserve batteries are made for military applications. "