What Lead Acid Battery?
A lead acid battery is a rechargeable battery using lead and sulfuric acid. A controlled chemical reaction between these materials generates electricity. This reaction reverses during recharging.
Several types of lead-acid batteries exist, each with specific characteristics:
- Flooded Lead-Acid (FLA): These are the traditional type, with liquid electrolyte requiring regular maintenance. They are often cheaper but can leak and spill. An example is a typical car battery. (Source: Reddit - What type of 12V lead acid battery is this?)
- Sealed Lead-Acid (SLA): These batteries are sealed to prevent electrolyte leakage, reducing maintenance. They are often used in smaller applications such as UPS systems or toys. (Source: Reddit - What type of 12V lead acid battery is this?)
- Absorbent Glass Mat (AGM): The electrolyte is absorbed into a glass mat separator, further improving leak resistance and durability. They can handle more vibration and are often preferred in vehicles and other applications requiring robustness. (Source: Reddit - What type of 12V lead acid battery is this?)
Why Are Lead Acid Batteries Still Used?
Despite newer battery technologies, lead-acid batteries remain prevalent due to several factors:
- Cost-effectiveness: They are generally cheaper to manufacture than other battery types. (Source: Reddit - Why are lead acid batteries still used (especially in cars)?)
- Cold-temperature performance: Lead-acid batteries outperform some other battery types in cold climates. (Source: Reddit - Why are lead acid batteries still used (especially in cars)?)
- High current delivery: They can provide high bursts of current, making them suitable for starting car engines. (Source: Battery University - How does the Lead Acid Battery Work?)
How Lead Acid Batteries Work
The battery functions through a reversible chemical reaction between lead plates and sulfuric acid. Lead dioxide acts as the cathode, and lead acts as the anode. During discharge, both materials convert to lead sulfate, producing electricity. Recharging reverses this process. (Source: Byjus - What is Lead-Acid Battery?) (Source: Continental Battery - Battery 101)
Lead Acid Battery Maintenance and Charging
Proper charging is crucial for lead-acid battery lifespan. Different charging methods exist, including constant current charging and constant voltage charging. (Source: Morningstar Corp - Types of Lead Acid Batteries) For flooded lead acid batteries, checking the electrolyte level is also important.
