Cell Design and Materials: Alternative Chemistries

Lead-Acid Batteries: Technology Overview

The lead-acid battery was invented in 1859 by Gaston Planté The lead-acid battery is considered to be the first practicable secondary battery and was composed of a pair of spiral-wound lead plates, separated by rubber strips, in a vessel of dilute sulfuric acid. Modern lead-acid batteries rely on the same fundamental chemistry but with refined architecture The most common formats of lead-acid batteries today are flooded (also called vented), valve-regulated (also called sealed or maintenance free), AGM (activated glass matt), gel, and bipolar, although tubular batteries are used in select markets and applications The fundamental discharge and charge reactions for these batteries are: PbO2 + Pb + 2H2SO4 ⇌ 2PbSO4 + 2H2O Different plate thicknesses and architecture are utilized for distinct applications (e.g. thicker plates are used in deep-cycle applications whereas thinner plates are used in SLI type batteries) Ongoing research funded by the Department of Energy is investigating how to improve lead battery performance for ESS applications, especially at longer durations Novel applications for lead batteries (and their use in microgrids) is being explored through projects in Europe and Africa Sample Lead-Acid Battery Schematic

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