The La-Ni system compounds have been prepared by arc-melting method under Ar atmosphere. X-ray diffraction analysis reveals that the as prepared alloys consist of different phases. The electrochemical properties, including activation, maximum discharge capacity, high rate chargeability (HRC), and high rate dischargeability (HRD) of these alloy electrodes have been studied through the charge-discharge recycle testing at different temperatures and charge (or discharge) currents. Among the La-Ni alloy electrodes studied, LaNi2.28 alloy has the most excellent high rate charging performance, and La2Ni7 alloy exhibit the highest high rate dischargeability, while La7Ni3 alloy is capable of discharging at low temperature. (c) 2006 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.