The first rechargeable batteries in commercial use were lead acid-ones. Since then, there have been many contenders. The most recent being lithium. Demand for lithium batteries is currently stable with just 2% growth. Lead-acid surges forward with 11% compound annual growth according to Electronic Design. The website thinks the direction batteries are heading is still lead-acid oriented. Although lithium will surge when electric vehicle supply catches up.
A Brief History of Lead Acid Since the 1970’s
Lead-acid batteries started to become commonplace in the 1850’s. The direction batteries took was stable then, until the advent of maintenance-free sealed lead-acid batteries in the 1970’s. Subsequent developments included sponge-like separators in absorbent glass mat batteries – abbreviated AGM. From then on, we could use these specialized lead-acid batteries in any position, even upside down.
The Direction Batteries Have Followed Since
Let us set lithium-ion and other alternate batteries aside for now. In terms of sealed lead-acid, the most popular versions are AGM. And secondly relative newcomer GEL, or valve-regulated lead-acid VRLA to give it its full name.
Compared to AGM, the big GEL difference is the electrolyte stiffens into a paste. This occurs through addition of a silica-gelling agent.
GEL batteries have many applications. They suit extreme conditions because of low freezing, and high boiling rates. They require very little maintenance. This makes them ideal for research in extremely remote places. However, the stiff electrolyte means ions move slowly through it. Thus, GEL batteries are unsuitable for starter power, but ideal for off-grid storage applications.
The Direction Battery Consumers are Moving In
Conventional lead-acid batteries are still the popular choice for kickstarting autos. This is because they are inexpensive, and recharge quickly. AGM batteries are ideal for emergency lighting, mobility assistance, and UPS applications.
By comparison, GEL manufacturers target larger users including forklifts, phone repeater towers, and internet hubs. The situation is currently stable. However, electric vehicle research could eventually render starter batteries obsolete. This is unlikely to affect the direction battery markets are moving significantly for some time yet.
Related
Advantages of Absorbent Glass Mat Batteries
Valve Regulated Lead Acid (VRLA) Batteries
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