US Patent 6911273 Hybrid electrochemical cell system

A hybrid electrochemical cell system is provided. In one embodiment, the hybrid system includes a cathode, an electrolyte, and a plurality of anode portions. A first anode portion is in ionic communication with the cathode via the electrolyte, and a second anode portion in ionic communication with the cathode via the electrolyte. The first anode portion, the electrolyte, and the cathode form a power generating electrochemical cell. Further, the second anode portion, the electrolyte, and the cathode form an auxiliary electrochemical cell. In another embodiment, separate cathode portions are provided.