Lead-acid batteries

Definition

Lead-acid batteries are rechargeable energy storage devices that use lead dioxide and sponge lead as electrodes, with sulfuric acid as the electrolyte. They are widely used in various applications, such as automotive batteries and uninterruptible power supplies, due to their reliability, cost-effectiveness, and ability to deliver high surge currents.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Lead-acid batteries were invented in 1859 by French engineer Gaston Planté, making them one of the oldest types of rechargeable batteries still in use today.
2. They have a nominal voltage of 2 volts per cell and are often configured in series to achieve higher voltages suitable for various applications.
3. Lead-acid batteries are known for their ability to deliver high bursts of current, making them ideal for starting engines in vehicles.
4. Despite their weight and size, lead-acid batteries are relatively inexpensive compared to newer battery technologies like lithium-ion.
5. The recycling rate for lead-acid batteries is among the highest of any consumer product, with about 96% of the materials being recoverable and reusable.

Review Questions

• How do lead-acid batteries operate, and what are the roles of the electrodes and electrolyte in this process?
  • Lead-acid batteries operate through electrochemical reactions between the lead dioxide (PbO2) and sponge lead (Pb) electrodes and the sulfuric acid (H2SO4) electrolyte. During discharge, lead dioxide oxidizes and leads to the reduction of lead sulfate (PbSO4) at both electrodes, generating electric current. The electrolyte plays a critical role in facilitating ion movement between the electrodes, allowing for energy storage and release.
• What are the advantages and disadvantages of using lead-acid batteries compared to other modern battery technologies?
  • Lead-acid batteries offer several advantages, including low cost, reliability, and the ability to deliver high surge currents, making them ideal for automotive applications. However, they also have disadvantages such as lower energy density, shorter cycle life compared to lithium-ion batteries, and they can be quite heavy. Additionally, lead-acid batteries require regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance and lifespan.
• Evaluate the environmental impact of lead-acid battery disposal and recycling processes.
  • The environmental impact of lead-acid battery disposal is significant if not managed properly due to the toxic nature of lead and sulfuric acid. However, the recycling process mitigates this impact substantially. The industry has established efficient recycling methods that reclaim approximately 96% of materials from spent batteries. These processes recover lead for new batteries and neutralize acids safely, thereby reducing waste and preventing harmful substances from entering landfills.

Related terms

Electrolyte: A substance that conducts electricity through the movement of ions, typically a liquid or gel solution, crucial for the operation of batteries.

Cycle life: The number of complete charge and discharge cycles a battery can undergo before its capacity significantly diminishes.

Deep cycle battery: A type of lead-acid battery designed to be regularly deeply discharged and recharged, offering a lower discharge rate for extended periods.