in this report, research findings at the university of utah are reported on the (1) fabrication of pre-sintered beta double prime-alumina tubing, (2) sintering processes for beta double prime-alumina, (3) characterization of beta double prime-alumina, and (4) development of a metal clad electronic ceramic (rutile) container or current collector; as well as additional results on topics treated in prior reports. research reported from ford research staff covers (1) testing of three series of metal prototype cells, (2) development of procedures for alpha-to beta double prime-alumina and container sealing, (3) sulfur electrode development (shape and surface treatment), (4) materials screening and development of containers including surface treatment and coating, and (5) evaluation of battery requirements (energy, power, volume, weight) for passenger cars. research reported by rpi covers (1) the kinetics of the sulfur electrode, (2) physical property measurements, (3) mass transport studies, (4) mechanisms of ceramic degradation, and (5) development of new seal glasses