What's the Best Battery?

We often get puzzled by announcements of new batteries that are said to offer very high energy densities, deliver 1000 charge/discharge cycle and are paper-thin. Are they real? Perhaps — but not in one and the same battery. While one battery type may be designed for small size and long runtime, this pack will not last and wear out prematurely. Another battery may be built for long life, but the size is big and bulky. A third battery may provide all the desirable attributes, but the price would be too high for commercial use.

Battery manufacturers are well aware of customer needs and have responded by offering packs that best suit the specific applications. The mobile phone industry is an example of clever adaptation. Emphasis is placed on small size, high energy density and low price. Longevity comes in second.

The inscription of NiMH on a battery pack does not automatically guarantee high energy density. A prismatic Nickel-Metal Hydride battery for a mobile phone, for example, is made for slim geometry. Such a pack provides an energy density of about 60Wh/kg and the cycle count is around 300. In comparison, a cylindrical NiMH offers energy densities of 80Wh/kg and higher. Still, the cycle count of this battery is moderate to low. High durability NiMH batteries, which endure 1000 discharges, are commonly packaged in bulky cylindrical cells. The energy density of these cells is a modest 70Wh/kg.

Compromises also exist on lithium-based batteries. Li‑ion packs are being produced for defense applications that far exceed the energy density of the commercial equivalent. Unfortunately, these super-high capacity Li‑ion batteries are deemed unsafe in the hands of the public and the high price puts them out of reach of the commercial market.

In this article we look at the advantages and limitations of the commercial battery. The so-called miracle battery that merely live in controlled environments is excluded. We scrutinize the batteries not only in terms of energy density but also longevity, load characteristics, maintenance requirements, self-discharge and operational costs. Since NiCd remains a standard against which other batteries are compared, we evaluate alternative chemistries against this classic battery type.

Nickel Cadmium (NiCd) — mature and well understood but relatively low in energy density. The NiCd is used where long life, high discharge rate and economical price are important. Main applications are two-way radios, biomedical equipment, professional video cameras and power tools. The NiCd contains toxic metals and is environmentally unfriendly.

Nickel-Metal Hydride (NiMH) — has a higher energy density compared to the NiCd at the expense of reduced cycle life. NiMH contains no toxic metals. Applications include mobile phones and laptop computers.

Lead Acid — most economical for larger power applications where weight is of little concern. The lead acid battery is the preferred choice for hospital equipment, wheelchairs, emergency lighting and UPS systems.

Lithium Ion (Li‑ion) — fastest growing battery system. Li‑ion is used where high-energy density and lightweight is of prime importance. The technology is fragile and a protection circuit is required to assure safety. Applications include notebook computers and cellular phones.

Lithium Ion Polymer (Li‑ion polymer) — offers the attributes of the Li-ion in ultra-slim geometry and simplified packaging. Main applications are mobile phones.

Figure 1 compares the characteristics of the six most commonly used rechargeable battery systems in terms of energy density, cycle life, exercise requirements and cost. The figures are based on average ratings of commercially available batteries at the time of publication.

NiCdNiMHLead AcidLi-ionLi-ion polymerReusable
Alkaline
Gravimetric Energy Density(Wh/kg)45-8060-12030-50110-160100-13080 (initial)
Internal Resistance
(includes peripheral circuits) in mΩ
100 to 2001
6V pack
200 to 3001
6V pack
<1001
12V pack
150 to 2501
7.2V pack
200 to 3001
7.2V pack
200 to 20001
6V pack
Cycle Life (to 80% of initial capacity)15002300 to 5002,3200 to
3002
500 to 10003300 to
500
503
(to 50%)
Fast Charge Time1h typical2-4h8-16h2-4h2-4h2-3h
Overcharge Tolerancemoderatelowhighvery lowlowmoderate
Self-discharge / Month (room temperature)20%430%45%10%5~10%50.3%
Cell Voltage(nominal)1.25V61.25V62V3.6V3.6V1.5V
Load Current
- peak
- best result

20C
1C

5C
0.5C or lower

5C7
0.2C

>2C
1C or lower

>2C
1C or lower

0.5C
0.2C or lower
Operating Temperature(discharge only)-40 to
60°C
-20 to
60°C
-20 to
60°C
-20 to
60°C
0 to
60°C
0 to
65°C
Maintenance Requirement30 to 60 days60 to 90 days3 to 6 months9not req.not req.not req.
Typical Battery Cost
(US$, reference only)
$50
(7.2V)
$60
(7.2V)
$25
(6V)
$100
(7.2V)
$100
(7.2V)
$5
(9V)
Cost per Cycle(US$)11$0.04$0.12$0.10$0.14$0.29$0.10-0.50
Commercial use since195019901970 (sealed lead acid)199119991992

Figure 1: Characteristics of commonly used rechargeable batteries

  1. Internal resistance of a battery pack varies with cell rating, type of protection circuit and number of cells. Protection circuit of Li‑ion and Li-polymer adds about 100mΩ.
  2. Cycle life is based on battery receiving regular maintenance. Failing to apply periodic full discharge cycles may reduce the cycle life by a factor of three.
  3. Cycle life is based on the depth of discharge. Shallow discharges provide more cycles than deep discharges.
  4. The discharge is highest immediately after charge, then tapers off. The NiCd capacity decreases 10% in the first 24h, then declines to about 10% every 30 days thereafter. Self-discharge increases with higher temperature.
  5. Internal protection circuits typically consume 3% of the stored energy per month.
  6. 1.25V is the open cell voltage. 1.2V is the commonly used value. There is no difference between the cells; it is simply a method of rating.
  7. Capable of high current pulses.
  8. Applies to discharge only; charge temperature range is more confined.
  9. Maintenance may be in the form of ‘equalizing’ or ‘topping’ charge.
  10. Cost of battery for commercially available portable devices.
  11. Derived from the battery price divided by cycle life. Does not include the cost of electricity and chargers.

Observation: It is interesting to note that NiCd has the shortest charge time, delivers the highest load current and offers the lowest overall cost-per-cycle, but has the most demanding maintenance requirements.

The Nickel Cadmium (NiCd) battery

The NiCd prefers fast charge to slow charge and pulse charge to DC charge. All other chemistries prefer a shallow discharge and moderate load currents. The NiCd is a strong and silent worker; hard labor poses no problem. In fact, the NiCd is the only battery type that performs well under rigorous working conditions. It does not like to be pampered by sitting in chargers for days and being used only occasionally for brief periods. A periodic full discharge is so important that, if omitted, large crystals will form on the cell plates (also referred to as memory) and the NiCd will gradually lose its performance.

Among rechargeable batteries, NiCd remains a popular choice for applications such as two-way radios, emergency medical equipment and power tools. Batteries with higher energy densities and less toxic metals are causing a diversion from NiCd to newer technologies.

Advantages and Limitations of NiCd Batteries

Advantages

Fast and simple charge — even after prolonged storage.

High number of charge/discharge cycles — if properly maintained, the NiCd provides over 1000 charge/discharge cycles.

Good load performance — the NiCd allows recharging at low temperatures.

Long shelf life – in any state-of-charge.

Simple storage and transportation — most airfreight companies accept the NiCd without special conditions.

Good low temperature performance.

Forgiving if abused — the NiCd is one of the most rugged rechargeable batteries.

Economically priced — the NiCd is the lowest cost battery in terms of cost per cycle.

Available in a wide range of sizes and performance options — most NiCd cells are cylindrical.

Limitations

Relatively low energy density — compared with newer systems.

Memory effect — the NiCd must periodically be exercised to prevent memory.

Environmentally unfriendly — the NiCd contains toxic metals. Some countries are limiting the use of the NiCd battery.

Has relatively high self-discharge — needs recharging after storage.

Figure 2: Advantages and limitations of NiCd batteries.

The Nickel-Metal Hydride (NiMH) battery

Research of the NiMH system started in the 1970s as a means of discovering how to store hydrogen for the nickel hydrogen battery. Today, nickel hydrogen batteries are mainly used for satellite applications. They are bulky, contain high-pressure steel canisters and cost thousands of dollars per cell.

In the early experimental days of the NiMH battery, the metal hydride alloys were unstable in the cell environment and the desired performance characteristics could not be achieved. As a result, the development of the NiMH slowed down. New hydride alloys were developed in the 1980s that were stable enough for use in a cell. Since the late 1980s, NiMH has steadily improved.

The success of the NiMH has been driven by its high energy density and the use of environmentally friendly metals. The modern NiMH offers up to 40 percent higher energy density compared to NiCd. There is potential for yet higher capacities, but not without some negative side effects.

The NiMH is less durable than the NiCd. Cycling under heavy load and storage at high temperature reduces the service life. The NiMH suffers from high self-discharge, which is considerably greater than that of the NiCd.

The NiMH has been replacing the NiCd in markets such as wireless communications and mobile computing. In many parts of the world, the buyer is encouraged to use NiMH rather than NiCd batteries. This is due to environmental concerns about careless disposal of the spent battery.

Experts agree that the NiMH has greatly improved over the years, but limitations remain. Most of the shortcomings are native to the nickel-based technology and are shared with the NiCd battery. It is widely accepted that NiMH is an interim step to lithium battery technology.

Advantages and Limitations of NiMH Batteries

Advantages

30 – 40 percent higher capacity over a standard NiCd. The NiMH has potential for yet higher energy densities.

Less prone to memory than the NiCd. Periodic exercise cycles are required less often.

Simple storage and transportation — transportation conditions are not subject to regulatory control.

Environmentally friendly — contains only mild toxins; profitable for recycling.

Limitations

Limited service life — if repeatedly deep cycled, especially at high load currents, the performance starts to deteriorate after 200 to 300 cycles. Shallow rather than deep discharge cycles are preferred.

Limited discharge current — although a NiMH battery is capable of delivering high discharge currents, repeated discharges with high load currents reduces the battery’s cycle life. Best results are achieved with load currents of 0.2C to 0.5C (one-fifth to one-half of the rated capacity).

More complex charge algorithm needed — the NiMH generates more heat during charge and requires a longer charge time than the NiCd. The trickle charge is critical and must be controlled carefully.

High self-discharge — the NiMH has about 50 percent higher self-discharge compared to the NiCd. New chemical additives improve the self-discharge but at the expense of lower energy density.

Performance degrades if stored at elevated temperatures — the NiMH should be stored in a cool place and at a state-of-charge of about 40 percent.

High maintenance — battery requires regular full discharge to prevent crystalline formation.

About 20 percent more expensive than NiCd — NiMH batteries designed for high current draw are more expensive than the regular version.

Figure 3: Advantages and limitations of NiMH batteries

The Lead Acid battery

Invented by the French physician Gaston Planté in 1859, lead acid was the first rechargeable battery for commercial use. Today, the flooded lead acid battery is used in automobiles, forklifts and large uninterruptible power supply (UPS) systems.

During the mid 1970s, researchers developed a maintenance-free lead acid battery that could operate in any position. The liquid electrolyte was transformed into moistened separators and the enclosure was sealed. Safety valves were added to allow venting of gas during charge and discharge.

Driven by different applications, two battery designations emerged. They are the small sealed lead acid (SLA), also known under the brand name of Gelcell, and the large valve regulated lead acid (VRLA). Technically, both batteries are the same. (Engineers may argue that the word ‘sealed lead acid’ is a misnomer because no lead acid battery can be totally sealed.) Because of our emphasis on portable batteries, we focus on the SLA.

Unlike the flooded lead acid battery, both the SLA and VRLA are designed with a low over-voltage potential to prohibit the battery from reaching its gas-generating potential during charge. Excess charging would cause gassing and water depletion. Consequently, these batteries can never be charged to their full potential.

The lead acid is not subject to memory. Leaving the battery on float charge for a prolonged time does not cause damage. The battery’s charge retention is best among rechargeable batteries. Whereas the NiCd self-discharges approximately 40 percent of its stored energy in three months, the SLA self-discharges the same amount in one year. The SLA is relatively inexpensive to purchase but the operational costs can be more expensive than the NiCd if full cycles are required on a repetitive basis.

The SLA does not lend itself to fast charging — typical charge times are 8 to 16 hours. The SLA must always be stored in a charged state. Leaving the battery in a discharged condition causes sulfation, a condition that makes the battery difficult, if not impossible, to recharge.

Unlike the NiCd, the SLA does not like deep cycling. A full discharge causes extra strain and each cycle robs the battery of a small amount of capacity. This wear-down characteristic also applies to other battery chemistries in varying degrees. To prevent the battery from being stressed through repetitive deep discharge, a larger SLA battery is recommended.

Depending on the depth of discharge and operating temperature, the SLA provides 200 to 300 discharge/ charge cycles. The primary reason for its relatively short cycle life is grid corrosion of the positive electrode, depletion of the active material and expansion of the positive plates. These changes are most prevalent at higher operating temperatures. Cycling does not prevent or reverse the trend.

The optimum operating temperature for the SLA and VRLA battery is 25°C (77°F). As a rule of thumb, every 8°C (15°F) rise in temperature will cut the battery life in half. VRLA that would last for 10 years at 25°C will only be good for 5 years if operated at 33°C (95°F). The same battery would endure a little more than one year at a temperature of 42°C (107°F).

Among modern rechargeable batteries, the lead acid battery family has the lowest energy density, making it unsuitable for handheld devices that demand compact size. In addition, performance at low temperatures is poor.

The SLA is rated at a 5-hour discharge or 0.2C. Some batteries are even rated at a slow 20-hour discharge. Longer discharge times produce higher capacity readings. The SLA performs well on high pulse currents. During these pulses, discharge rates well in excess of 1C can be drawn.

In terms of disposal, the SLA is less harmful than the NiCd battery but the high lead content makes the SLA environmentally unfriendly.

Advantages and Limitations of Lead Acid Batteries

Advantages

Inexpensive and simple to manufacture — in terms of cost per watt hours, the SLA is the least expensive.

Mature, reliable and well-understood technology — when used correctly, the SLA is durable and provides dependable service.

Low self-discharge —the self-discharge rate is among the lowest in rechargeable batterysystems.

Low maintenance requirements — no memory; no electrolyte to fill.

Capable of high discharge rates.

Limitations

Cannot be stored in a discharged condition.

Low energy density — poor weight-to-energy density limits use to stationary and wheeled applications.

Allows only a limited number of full discharge cycles — well suited for standby applications that require only occasional deep discharges.

Environmentally unfriendly — the electrolyte and the lead content can cause environmental damage.

Transportation restrictions on flooded lead acid — there are environmental concerns regarding spillage in case of an accident.

Thermal runaway can occur with improper charging.

Figure 4: Advantages and limitations of lead acid batteries.

The Lithium Ion battery

Pioneer work with the lithium battery began in 1912 under G.N. Lewis but it was not until the early 1970s that the first non-rechargeable lithium batteries became commercially available. Lithium is the lightest of all metals, has the greatest electrochemical potential and provides the largest energy density per weight.

Attempts to develop rechargeable lithium batteries followed in the 1980s, but failed due to safety problems. Because of the inherent instability of lithium metal, especially during charging, research shifted to a non-metallic lithium battery using lithium ions. Although slightly lower in energy density than lithium metal, the Li‑ion is safe, provided certain precautions are met when charging and discharging. In 1991, the Sony Corporation commercialized the first Li‑ion battery. Other manufacturers followed suit. Today, the Li‑ion is the fastest growing and most promising battery chemistry.

The energy density of the Li‑ion is typically twice that of the standard NiCd. Improvements in electrode active materials have the potential of increasing the energy density close to three times that of the NiCd. In addition to high capacity, the load characteristics are reasonably good and behave similarly to the NiCd in terms of discharge characteristics (similar shape of discharge profile, but different voltage). The flat discharge curve offers effective utilization of the stored power in a desirable voltage spectrum.

The high cell voltage allows battery packs with only one cell. Most of today’s mobile phones run on a single cell, an advantage that simplifies battery design. To maintain the same power, higher currents are drawn. Low cell resistance is important to allow unrestricted current flow during load pulses.

The Li‑ion is a low maintenance battery, an advantage that most other chemistries cannot claim. There is no memory and no scheduled cycling is required to prolong the battery’s life. In addition, the self-discharge is less than half compared to NiCd, making the Li‑ion well suited for modern fuel gauge applications. Li‑ion cells cause little harm when disposed.

Despite its overall advantages, Li‑ion also has its drawbacks. It is fragile and requires a protection circuit to maintain safe operation. Built into each pack, the protection circuit limits the peak voltage of each cell during charge and prevents the cell voltage from dropping too low on discharge. In addition, the cell temperature is monitored to prevent temperature extremes. The maximum charge and discharge current is limited to between 1C and 2C. With these precautions in place, the possibility of metallic lithium plating occurring due to overcharge is virtually eliminated.

Aging is a concern with most Li‑ion batteries and many manufacturers remain silent about this issue. Some capacity deterioration is noticeable after one year, whether the battery is in use or not. Over two or perhaps three years, the battery frequently fails. It should be noted that other chemistries also have age-related degenerative effects. This is especially true for the NiMH if exposed to high ambient temperatures.

Storing the battery in a cool place slows down the aging process of the Li‑ion (and other chemistries). Manufacturers recommend storage temperatures of 15°C (59°F). In addition, the battery should be partially charged during storage.

Manufacturers are constantly improving the chemistry of the Li‑ion battery. New and enhanced chemical combinations are introduced every six months or so. With such rapid progress, it is difficult to assess how well the revised battery will age.

The most economical Li-ion battery in terms of cost-to-energy ratio is the cylindrical 18650 cell. This cell is used for mobile computing and other applications that do not demand ultra-thin geometry. If a slimmer pack is required (thinner than 18 mm), the prismatic Li‑ion cell is the best choice. There are no gains in energy density over the 18650, however, the cost of obtaining the same energy may double.

For ultra-slim geometry (less than 4 mm), the only choice is Li‑ion polymer. This is the most expensive system in terms of cost-to-energy ratio. There are no gains in energy density and the durability is inferior to the rugged 18560 cell.

Advantages and Limitations of Li-ion Batteries

Advantages

High energy density — potential for yet higher capacities.

Relatively low self-discharge — self-discharge is less than half that of NiCd and NiMH.

Low Maintenance — no periodic discharge is needed; no memory.

Limitations

Requires protection circuit — protection circuit limits voltage and current. Battery is safe if not provoked.

Subject to aging, even if not in use — storing the battery in a cool place and at 40 percent state-of-charge reduces the aging effect.

Moderate discharge current.

Subject to transportation regulations — shipment of larger quantities of Li-ion batteries may be subject to regulatory control. This restriction does not apply to personal carry-on batteries.

Expensive to manufacture — about 40 percent higher in cost than NiCd. Better manufacturing techniques and replacement of rare metals with lower cost alternatives will likely reduce the price.

Not fully mature — changes in metal and chemical combinations affect battery test results, especially with some quick test methods.

Figure 5: Advantages and limitations of Li-ion batteries

The Lithium Polymer battery

The Li-polymer differentiates itself from other battery systems in the type of electrolyte used. The original design, dating back to the 1970s, uses a dry solid polymer electrolyte. This electrolyte resembles a plastic-like film that does not conduct electricity but allows an exchange of ions (electrically charged atoms or groups of atoms). The polymer electrolyte replaces the traditional porous separator, which is soaked with electrolyte.

The dry polymer design offers simplifications with respect to fabrication, ruggedness, safety and thin-profile geometry. There is no danger of flammability because no liquid or gelled electrolyte is used. With a cell thickness measuring as little as one millimeter (0.039 inches), equipment designers are left to their own imagination in terms of form, shape and size.

Unfortunately, the dry Li-polymer suffers from poor conductivity. Internal resistance is too high and cannot deliver the current bursts needed for modern communication devices and spinning up the hard drives of mobile computing equipment. Heating the cell to 60°C (140°F) and higher increases the conductivity but this requirement is unsuitable for portable applications.

To make a small Li-polymer battery conductive, some gelled electrolyte has been added. Most of the commercial Li-polymer batteries used today for mobile phones are a hybrid and contain gelled electrolyte. The correct term for this system is Lithium Ion Polymer. For promotional reasons, most battery manufacturers mark the battery simply as Li-polymer. Since the hybrid lithium polymer is the only functioning polymer battery for portable use today, we will focus on this chemistry.

With gelled electrolyte added, what then is the difference between classic Li‑ion and Li‑ion polymer? Although the characteristics and performance of the two systems are very similar, the Li‑ion polymer is unique in that solid electrolyte replaces the porous separator. The gelled electrolyte is simply added to enhance ion conductivity.

Technical difficulties and delays in volume manufacturing have deferred the introduction of the Li‑ion polymer battery. In addition, the promised superiority of the Li‑ion polymer has not yet been realized. No improvements in capacity gains are achieved — in fact, the capacity is slightly less than that of the standard Li‑ion battery. For the present, there is no cost advantage. The major reason for switching to the Li-ion polymer is form factor. It allows wafer-thin geometries, a style that is demanded by the highly competitive mobile phone industry.

Advantages and Limitations of Li-ion Polymer Batteries

Advantages

Very low profile — batteries that resemble the profile of a credit card are feasible.

Flexible form factor — manufacturers are not bound by standard cell formats. With high volume, any reasonable size can be produced economically.

Light weight – gelled rather than liquid electrolytes enable simplified packaging, in some cases eliminating the metal shell.

Improved safety — more resistant to overcharge; less chance for electrolyte leakage.

Limitations

Lower energy density and decreased cycle count compared to Li-ion — potential for improvements exist.

Expensive to manufacture — once mass-produced, the Li-ion polymer has the potential for lower cost. Reduced control circuit offsets higher manufacturing costs.

Last Updated: 21-Mar-2017
Batteries In A Portable World
Batteries In A Portable World

The material on Battery University is based on the indispensable new 4th edition of "Batteries in a Portable World - A Handbook on Rechargeable Batteries for Non-Engineers" which is available for order through Amazon.com.

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Larrie Cole

PURE SEALED LEAD HAS MANY ADVANTAGES NOT MENTIONED. LIKE TEMPERATURE HAS LITTLE EFFECT.

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On April 23, 2019, Admin wrote:
Hi Alvaro. Yes, you may use the material as requested. Please cite source where appropriate.
On April 19, 2019, Alvaro wrote:
Hi, great work! I'm working on my bachelor thesis and I was wondering if I could use information in this post on my own work, obviously giving the credits of it. Thank you
On November 27, 2017, Bob T wrote:
too long didn't read it all but good job for typing SOOOOOOOOOOOO much!! If read it I'd proabably learned a few things.
On October 11, 2017, Rajendran K wrote:
Very good post! Last week i bought battery online from batterybhai, its warranty is 48 month. I wants to know what is average life time for good battery, because my old battery died just in 22 months. Which type of electrolyte used in automotive batteries.
On July 25, 2017, Mickey Felder wrote:
I'm still learning about lithium ion battery. Is it true that lithium ion battery is subject to aging, even if not in use ? As far as i know, the lithium ion battery is subject to cycle so it will not aging while not in use.
On May 23, 2017, Tommi Berg wrote:
Thanks for nice page! I hope you would update scale for lithium battery dicharge rates. For RC hobby batteries discharge rates ranging from 20C-90C, which is pretty far from ">2C" stated in comparison table. See example from Hobbyking: https://hobbyking.com/en_us/batteries/turnigy-lipoly.html?___store=en_us&dir=asc&order=discharge Also pricing of Li batteries has dropped very fast in recent years, therefore table should be updated. Now for Tesla Li cell price is getting to the level of $125/kWh. https://electrek.co/2017/02/18/tesla-battery-cost-gigafactory-model-3/
On March 18, 2017, dave wrote:
You list lead acid as commercial use since 1970? I think that is wrong, they've been around for over 100 years. Maybe you meant 1870?
On February 19, 2017, John wrote:
I see lots of unanswered questions and comments here, but I'll try anyway: Why doesn't the FTC (Federal Trade Commission) or other AHJ (Authority Having Jurisdiction) require battery manufacturers to place the energy density of the battery in easily understood units, such as watt-hours on the packaging and in the advertising of these products so that consumers can have a meaningful way of comparing the performance of batteries by "unit pricing" ($/W-H) among various manufacturers and brands? This should apply to rechargable and non-rechargeable batteries alike. The only technical information about battery performance that is easily obtained (from Web sites) by the average consumer, are charge/discharge curves under controlled, not necessarily typical conditions. These are USELESS in helping the consumer make an informed purchase decision or to provide an objective price vs. performance comparison of available products.
On February 18, 2017, Miklo wrote:
Batteries have come a long way since cell phones were first used. While batteries are still the weak point in my opinion they now last longer charge faster and are not as toxic as before. Of course there are still a few things that should be done to get the most from your battery, so it's important to find out what kind of battery you have and the proper way to maintain. By doing this you will extend the life of the battery, and make life easier. MIKLO
On January 16, 2017, Ken Page wrote:
Where's NiFe? Nickel Iron Batteries?? :( .-.-.
On January 5, 2017, Rodolfo Martinez wrote:
Is there any information on this website concerning Lithium Ion Iron Phosphate batteries?
On December 19, 2016, zameer wrote:
battery type Lithium Ion (Li-Ion) - 4 Cell battery type Lithium Ion (Li-Ion) which battery is good for my laptop?
On September 9, 2016, Michael Stephen wrote:
The Article was so enriching and i gain alot from it. It has also given me an head start on my present research review paper on present day Battery Technologies
On August 23, 2016, Reno Magro wrote:
Love your articles on battery technolgy, the way of the future. When coupled to solar and wind technolgy , hope battery's can keep up
On May 12, 2016, Robert wrote:
From the first paragraph - Quote: "We scrutinize the batteries not only in terms of energy density but also longevity..." And then there is no further mention of "longevity", very disappointing for a site that has university in it's title. I am looking to find what is best for a backup battery that I expect will hardly ever be needed / used / discharged. So cycles not equal longevity!
On April 4, 2016, shekhar wrote:
is there any damage to lead acid battery if we provide constant current to it throughout?
On March 30, 2016, roland anderson wrote:
How does the pure lead batteries compare to lithium? The pure lead is a big improvement from wet lead acid is it not?
On March 10, 2016, Jack wrote:
Some types of rechargeable batteries and the charging circuit
On February 16, 2016, Jaiprakash More wrote:
which type of battery to be used for private solar system where regular electricity is not present at all and need deep discharges every night. And where electricity present but irregular.
On November 6, 2015, AnzalnaSaif wrote:
I want the brief not about the advantages and disadvantages of battery
On November 6, 2015, AnzalnaSaif wrote:
I want the brief information
On October 15, 2015, 150321 wrote:
batteries can explode!
On August 26, 2015, shadab arzoo (raja) wrote:
which is best Li-Ion or Li-Po?
On May 15, 2015, Nathan Maxfield wrote:
Deez Nutz Slpurge
On April 27, 2015, farhan nezami wrote:
can any one suggest me that which is the best battery out of all
On April 15, 2015, zccc wrote:
Great article.
On February 13, 2015, meh wrote:
does anyone know what batteries the silex chreos is going too use if it exists?
On February 6, 2015, Cami R. wrote:
One of the great contributors of soil and water contamination are the batteries, the high lead content ones. We should all learn to do responsible disposal so to avoid the risk of human and environmental health. | http://www.advancedchemical.net/
On February 4, 2015, Jeff wrote:
Hi Dacosta, I am working on the rechargeable battery, keep in touch zzrm316@163.com Edward
On February 3, 2015, Dacosta wrote:
This is a very informative article. i am working on a charging circuit for a Li-ion batteries...any help will be welcomed
On February 1, 2015, mok u yacankybiyatch wrote:
i think this is a very innteresting article ver interesting thank u for the nice information
On January 28, 2015, p wrote:
lol
On December 21, 2014, Robdogwoof wrote:
In interested in the early question regarding Nickel Iron chemistry in stationary solar or wind powered installations. While they have low energy density, their robustness and cycle life seem to make them appealing. So is there any reason not to employ them in this application? I'm thinking of a1000AHr installation.
On December 10, 2014, Edward wrote:
NAPA ,No it is dangerous to use the Lipol in such high temperaturer, you can choose the Ni-Cd or Ni-Mh high temperaturer battery, for more details please send my email zzrm316@163.com Edward
On December 10, 2014, NAPA SURESH wrote:
Hi There, Can anyone clarify me that we can use Lipol battery in higher temperatures like >60degC operating temperature? I mean charging at 60degC operating temperature.
On November 5, 2014, mr.smarter than you wrote:
...ME SMARTER THAN YOU...LOL
On September 17, 2014, Edward wrote:
Dear Alex As you know , the South Korea is very good at the Lithium battery. So do not doubt that. the cycles of Kia Soul Ev battery is not very clear.
On September 16, 2014, Alex wrote:
Have a question, the new Kia Soul EV have Lithium Polymer with energy density of 200 Wh/kg, higher than other car maker. Is that so much improved, and how about cycles of Kia Soul EV battery?
On August 4, 2014, Edward wrote:
different kinds of battery can meet different requirement
On July 7, 2014, M K pandey wrote:
Please provide your inputs for following. In a power distribution control circuits are rated at 24 V or 48 V dc voltage. Please comment as what type of batteries be used. One option is we use 12 V car batteries in series to arrive at required voltage. Other option is to go for the battery bank with 2 V cells in series to achieve required voltage. I would like to know what are the advantage of battery bank with 2 V cells over a 12 volt battery bank, especially for protection of control circuits of a power distribution company. Please elaborate your reply with construction details & life of the battery cells. Please provide the information as early as possible.
On June 2, 2014, Ravindra Gosavi wrote:
How to Fast and full bost charging in low condition batteries by railway station
On June 1, 2014, Tigran wrote:
Very helpful overview. It helped me in choosing the battery type for long cycle life system. Also motivated me to think about other types of energy storage like CAES (Compressed Air Energy Storage) for solar home application
On May 14, 2014, nikhil wrote:
hi, i have a small digital clock circuit which works on 12v 1a smps adapter. i want to connect it to an inverter battery 12v 50ah. my question is whether i need any special circuit withstand this high current (50ah) ?. and 'ah' means it just increase the battery backup time and the circuit draws only the current it needs regardless of the battery "AH".? please reply, thanks Nikhil
On April 11, 2014, harinath wrote:
really informative
On October 9, 2013, arianna wrote:
so bored........
On July 28, 2013, jerry carr wrote:
enersys has taken away the need for dangerous li-ion batteries by making pure led hi profile bateries that arent to expensive. on ships this is very important because of the ris k of fire , which powerstar solves.
On January 11, 2013, nik wrote:
Information here is quite aged (i woudl say 5 years at least) ... LSD NiMH and LIFePO batteries changed landscape quite a bit, and even older chemistries been tweaked quite significantly (makes you realise how battery improvements racked up in last years). Example: you can get eneloop cells for few years already, parameters in range of 2.4Wh, 1000+ cycles, 27g weight and 2,5$ cost ... .. and LiFePO nanophosphate cells could shame NiCads in almost every aspect but price (NiCads are no longer king of the hill when you needed both cycle counts and power delivery) Arcticle leaves out some useful characteristics of some chemistries, while mentioning less relevant information, ex. woud be nice to mention that NiMH are close to 100% efficient in first 80% of their capacity cycle, or that keeping LiI-ion chemistries under 80% SOC not only increase their cycle counts, but significanly decreases age-related capacity loss (which under many uses is much more significant than cycle-related capacity loss) .... ... and so on
On November 23, 2012, Gary M. Franklin Sr. wrote:
In lawnmowers powered by rechargeable batteries, which battery are you best to have as far as overcharging and long life are you best to have LEWAD ACID OR LITHIUM ION? Please send me an e-mail A.S.A.P. Thanks Sincerley, Gary M. Franklin Sr.
On November 5, 2012, killerwhale wrote:
The article appears to have been written quite some time ago. It makes no mention of the (not-so-new now) NiMH low-self-discharge batteries (eneloop-type).
On September 18, 2012, Rumble Bumble Bee wrote:
This is fantablious. I really love spending my weekend reading this sort of educational inforation. thanks, your biggest fan - Rumble Bumble Bee
On September 17, 2012, markez wrote:
Thanks for this article. Now I'm doing my final project for the university and this information can help me to understand better what i have to do.
On September 13, 2012, jhkdhk wrote:
hey this is cool as
On June 1, 2012, Rafy Azman wrote:
This is a very good article! THanks so much!!
On March 30, 2012, jagmohan wrote:
Hi ... I m working as a senior solution architect..i need all battery related updates. Thankyou Jagmohan
On March 19, 2012, Todd wrote:
...Me likey bateries... :D
On March 19, 2012, Sareyah Cook wrote:
Wow, this really helped me with a six grade science projct. im in high schol now anyway. VERY WELL DONE.
On March 3, 2012, Alan wrote:
Thank you Jack, I will follow up your suggestion
On January 3, 2012, Alan Oppy wrote:
I have developed a small portable appliance for use in the outdoor recreation market that requires a 12 volt power source to operate. This power source needs to be able to deliver a start-up current of 1.9 amp and a run current of 1.5 amps and needs to be able deliver this for approx 3-4 minutes per operation. It will then cease, rest, and repeat this function approx 30 to 40 times before needing to be recharged. I am seeking advice as to which battery would be best suited to meeting my needs. Other important factors that need to be considered are weight, size (portability), longevity and of course price. Can anyone advise on this
On November 24, 2011, Natasha Mohan wrote:
Very informative article. I wanted to know what the best battery for a UPS system in mid power range (online) system is?This would mostly be used for commercial applications. I know lead acid batteries are commonly used in UPS systems, but can Li ion or Sodium metal halide batteries be used?
On August 23, 2011, Andrew wrote:
@Fralam The battery you're talking about is listed as a 1.2 V, 9000 mAh cell. Somebody bought and tested it, it produced 4 Ah - not 9. Hoax
On August 16, 2011, Eduard wrote:
Hi, you forgot the batteries nickel iron, these are estimated life of 20 years and more than 10 000 charge discharge cycles, without having to Change the Electrolite They were ruled by obsolescence planned. Created more than two centuries, and even 70's batteries running, I think we should keep them in mind. http://www.nickel-iron-battery.com/
On June 11, 2011, Clive Wilson wrote:
This is a really nice intro to batteries, very useful to the novice like myself. But (there's always a but) please could you add a date element to this to indicate how current (sorry!) this is.
On March 20, 2011, Dr. Haddad wrote:
Please send me up to date information. Than you. Dr. Haddad
On March 18, 2011, Dean Scott wrote:
Can you replace 6-6 volt golf cart batteriea with 3-12 volt on a 36 volt cart?
On March 8, 2011, jesper lindskog wrote:
Note to "poet human" we have been working with regenereting lead acid batteries for over 10 years. We have also been doing reserch for prolonging the lifetime of all kind of batteries. Contact me for more info on jesper.lindskog@reacc.se
On February 26, 2011, neale grier wrote:
freezing of these batteries will it damage them???
On February 12, 2011, Fralam wrote:
How about some NiMh battery cells of C type with1.2v@ 9000mAmp and weigth of only 63gr per cell... is this fake?.... plz someone tell me because the the watt per kgr is higer than the reported
On January 16, 2011, a wrote:
How does Nickel-Iron fare? From what I've read the things seem awesome for solar charged systems.
On January 14, 2011, K.Samba siva Rao wrote:
Dear sir / madam, I Want comb type grid design dateils for lead acid batteries. Avoid the paste is shedding from positve & negative grids. Regards K.Samba siva Rao Asst.Designing engineer HBl Power systems, HYD. AP, India.
On January 14, 2011, K.Samba siva Rao wrote:
Dear sir / madam, I Want comb type grid design dateils for lead acid batteries. Avoid the paste falling from positve & negative plates. Regards K.Samba siva Rao Asst.Designing engineer HBl Power systems, HYD. AP, India.
On January 5, 2011, BWMichael wrote:
Mud: There are 2 types of SLA batteries - deep cycle and non deep cycle. The deep cycle ones will last longer if being flattened and recharged, where as the non deep cycle prefers to be kept charged all the time and are usually used for UPS systems and house alarms as they are not constantly being used/cycled. p.s Gabriel if you are going to correct me, dont bother. I am right
On December 30, 2010, Wayne Parsons wrote:
Very informative
On December 28, 2010, Mud wrote:
Interesting stuff. I originally wanted to read the article to answer my question but it was not addressed. The question is, when building a solar charging system with SLA batteries, is there a difference between types of deep cycle batteries. I've seen sources using deep cycle batteries used in a number of applications such as golf carts. I seem to recall someone once saying a certain deep cycle battery needs to be used instead of another, but I can not recall the source. I've tried to research this question but am not finding a straight answer. Can you clarify this answer?
On December 26, 2010, Errol wrote:
good general cover
On December 23, 2010, Hebura wrote:
Very good basics for a new practitioner in the battery field.
On November 24, 2010, holt b. harrison wrote:
can you give me the names of the publicly traded stocks making your reccomended electric car batteries? thank you, Holt Harrison
On November 22, 2010, General manager wrote:
Looking for the latest best battery charger for rechargeble best batteries for electronic locks,remote and commercial use.and safety.
On November 19, 2010, Piet Human wrote:
We are invetigating the " Re- generation of Lead - Acid batteries " principals , the feasability of this procedure etc . and require more information regarding this " new " technology . Can you assist or refer me to somebody who can assist me please ?
On November 19, 2010, Michael wrote:
Really it's very good. It gave me clear ideas on what parts do we (next generation) have to focus. Especially on the Li ion battery on which I am interested in.
On November 7, 2010, LeszekJ wrote:
I suggest to correct some units. Namely, internal resistance unit.
On October 29, 2010, Renegade wrote:
How old is this article? Li Poly is way beyond this now. What about Lithium Iron Polymer?
On October 22, 2010, Ed Iglehart wrote:
Very good overview. Helped me decide on a power tool purchase. Thanks