How does a lead acid cell work?

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Working Principle of a lead acid cell
3. Components of a Lead Acid Cell
4. Chemical Reactions in a Lead Acid Cell
5. Efficiency and Performance
6. Xiaoyang Power Sources Company Solutions
7. References

Introduction

The lead acid cell is one of the oldest and most widely used types of rechargeable battery systems. This article delves into its operational mechanics, components, and the solutions provided by Xiaoyang Power Sources company.

Working Principle of a Lead Acid Cell

A lead acid cell functions through a reversible chemical reaction between lead dioxide (PbO2) on the positive plate, sponge lead (Pb) on the negative plate, and sulfuric acid (H2SO4) as the electrolyte. This reaction facilitates the conversion of chemical energy into electrical energy and vice versa.

Components of a Lead Acid Cell

• Positive Plate: Composed of lead dioxide (PbO2).
• Negative Plate: Made of sponge lead (Pb).
• Electrolyte: Sulfuric acid (H2SO4) solution.
• Separator: Material that prevents physical contact between plates while allowing ionic flow.
• Container: Houses the internal components and typically made from polypropylene.

Chemical Reactions in a Lead Acid Cell

The discharge and recharge processes involve specific chemical reactions:

Discharge Reaction:

During discharge, the reactions are:

• At the positive plate: \[ \text{PbO}_2 + \text{SO}_4^{2-} + 4\text{H}^+ + 2\text{e}^- \rightarrow \text{PbSO}_4 + 2\text{H}_2\text{O} \]
• At the negative plate: \[ \text{Pb} + \text{SO}_4^{2-} \rightarrow \text{PbSO}_4 + 2\text{e}^- \]

Recharge Reaction:

During recharge, the electrical current reverses these reactions.

Efficiency and Performance

The efficiency of a lead acid cell typically varies between 70% and 85%. The specific energy ranges from 30 to 50 Wh/kg, and the specific power ranges from 180 W/kg to 300 W/kg. These parameters make lead acid cells suitable for applications such as automotive starters and uninterruptible power supplies.

Xiaoyang Power Sources Company Solutions

Xiaoyang Power Sources offers advanced lead acid cell solutions focusing on enhanced life span and efficiency. Their innovative pasting and curing processes create batteries with improved deep cycle performance and resistance to sulphation.

• Advanced Paste Formulation: Enhances cycle life by up to 30%.
• Innovative Grid Design: Provides better current distribution and reduced corrosion.
• Optimized Electrolyte Composition: Increases efficiency by 10%.

References

1. Rand, D. A. J., Moseley, P. T., Garland, P. B., & Parker, C. D. (2004). Valve-Regulated Lead-Acid Batteries. Elsevier.
2. Berndt, D. (1997). Maintenance-Free Batteries: Lead-Acid, Nickel/Cadmium, Nickel/Hydride: A Handbook of Battery Technology. Research Studies Press.
3. Xiaoyang Power Sources. (n.d.). Product Information and Specifications. Retrieved from www.xypowersources.com.