A lead acid battery is a rechargeable battery technology that is used in numerous applications today. It stores chemical energy that can be converted to electric energy. Some of the key advantages of rechargeable battery include high power density, high cycle life, good thermal stability and relatively low production costs. These factors have made rechargeable battery one of the most popular rechargeable battery types in the world.

Chemistry of Rechargeable Battery

A rechargeable battery uses lead and lead oxide for the electrodes and sulfuric acid for the electrolyte. During discharge, the lead (Pb) electrode is converted to lead sulfate (PbSO4) and the lead oxide (PbO2) electrode is converted to lead sulfate. Electrons flow from the Pb electrode to the PbO2 electrode through the external circuit, providing electrical energy. During charge, the opposite chemical reaction takes place restoring the battery to its original state.

Types of Lead Acid Battery

There are mainly three types of Lead Acid Battery used commercially - flooded, gel and AGM (absorbed glass mat). Flooded rechargeable battery contain liquid electrolyte that can spill or leak if not properly maintained. Gel rechargeable battery use an immobilized electrolyte gel that is less prone to spilling but has slightly lower performance. AGM rechargeable battery use fiberglass mats to safely absorb and immobilize the electrolyte, offering spill-proof operation and improved vibration resistance.

Applications of Lead Acid Battery

Due to their ruggedness, low cost and wide availability, rechargeable battery find applications across different industries:

Starting, Lighting and Ignition (SLI) in Vehicles

Rechargeable battery are most commonly used as SLI batteries in automobiles, trucks, buses, forklifts etc. to start the engine and power lights and accessories. Their high current delivery abilities make them ideal for starting large internal combustion engines.

Backup Power and UPS Systems

Many homes, businesses, telecom towers and data centers use rechargeable battery based UPS (uninterruptible power supply) systems as emergency backup power sources in case of power outages from the main utility.

Motive Power in EVs and Forklifts

Wheelchair motors, golf carts, ATVs, forklifts and other industrial electric vehicles use flooded or VRLA rechargeable battery for traction power. Their robustness and ability to deliver short bursts of high currents suits these applications.