Types of batteries
Batteries are a key component of the modern electronic systems, supplying autonomy and mobility of equipment. Difference of energy saving technologies allows choosing optimal power sources for certain tasks. In this materials main types of batteries, their operating parameters, advantages and weaknesses, and areas of application will be displayed.
Lead acid batteries
Lead acid batteries are one of the most time-tested technologies. They are based on electrochemical processes between lead, lead dioxide and sulfuric acid. They are produced in variations with flooded electrolyte and in a sealed version (VRLA).
Flooded batteries are used primarily in starter systems of car transport and uninterruptible power supplies. Sealed batteries are preferable for reserve power systems because of their spill protection and lack of maintenance necessity.
Advantages:
- High starting power
- Longevity with correct operating
- Low cost of production
Drawbacks:
- Large weight
- Susceptibility to degradation under deep discharge
Lithium ion batteries
Lithium ion batteries are widely used in portable electronics, electric vehicles, power saving systems. Principle of their work is based on movement of lithium ions between anode and cathode.
Modern technologies of lithium ion batteries are constantly evolving, raising their capacity, effectiveness and safety.
Advantages:
- High energy intensity
- Lack of pronounced memory effect
- Small weight with high capacity numbers
Drawbacks:
- Susceptibility to overheat, necessity of protection systems
- Higher production cost compared to traditional decisions
Nickel metal hydride (NiMH) batteries
NiMH-batteries are an ecologically safer alternative to nickel cadmium power sources. Hydrogen-absorbing alloys are used instead of cadmium which reduces toxicity.
Thanks to the ability to work in a widespread range and extended capacity, they find their use in everyday electronics, medical equipment and medium power systems.
Advantages:
- Environmentally friendly and easier disposal
- Higher capacity compared to NiCd
Drawbacks:
- Increased self-discharge
- Storage requirements to maintain performance
Nickel-cadmium (NiCd) batteries
NiCd batteries remain relevant in specialized industries that require high reliability and performance in difficult operating conditions, such as in aviation and communication systems.
Due to the presence of toxic cadmium, NiCd batteries require strict disposal standards.
Advantages:
- Reliable operation in extreme conditions
- High resistance to a large number of charge-discharge cycles
Drawbacks:
- Toxicity of components
- Tendency to memory effect
Prospects for the development of battery technologies
Current research is focused on creating safe, highly efficient solutions with minimal impact on the environment. Of particular interest is the development of solid-state batteries, which promise improved safety characteristics and specific capacity.
Conclusions
The choice of battery technology should be based on an analysis of operational requirements, target equipment characteristics, and external factors including cost of ownership and disposal requirements. The evolution of energy storage technologies opens up new opportunities for the design of efficient and reliable electronic systems.