Characteristics of valve-regulated lead/acid batteries for automotive applications under deep-discharge duty

• Published in: Journal of power sources Vol. 33; no. 1; pp. 105 - 116
• Main Authors: Tsubota, M., Osumi, S., Kosai, M.
• Format: Journal Article Conference Proceeding
• Language: English
• Published: Lausanne Elsevier B.V 01.01.1991; Elsevier Sequoia
• Subjects: Applied sciences; Direct energy conversion and energy accumulation; Electrical engineering. Electrical power engineering; Electrical power engineering; Electrochemical conversion: primary and secondary batteries, fuel cells; Exact sciences and technology
• ISSN: 0378-7753; 1873-2755
• DOI: 10.1016/0378-7753(91)85053-Y

The performance and discharge characteristics of valve-regulated lead/acid (VRLA) batteries for automotive applications are investigated under various charge-discharge conditions. The influence on cycle-life of factors such as grid structure (cast and expanded) and compression of the element are examined. The possible benefits of adding anisotropic graphite to the positive active material of pasted-type plates are also studied. It is found that optimization of both the structure and the weight of the grids, as well as maintenance of a tight contact between the separators and the plates, are necessary to improve the cycle-life of VRLA batteries at high temperatures. Furthermore, anisotropic graphite is shown to be an effective additive for the enhancement of the high-rate discharge capacity, particularly at low temperatures.