Lead-acid stationary batteries energy density

Flat plate and tubular positive plate cells are produced for stationary duty, but where reliability is a prime consideration, Plante cells are used. In a Plants cell, the positive electrodes are manufactured by a quite different process. The oxide is formed by electrochemical oxidation (say, 10 mA cm for 20 h) of a lead baseplate or grid, often shaped to increase its surface area, in an electrolyte which contains sulphuric acid and an anion (perchlorate or nitrate) wliich forms a soluble Pb " salt. This leads to a layer of thick porous oxide the nitrate or perchlorate is present to prevent total passivation of the lead surface. The resulting plate, thickness 6—12 mm, is then reduced to form spongy lead metal, is washed thoroughly, and is recharged when in a fabricated cell. The active material formed in this way adheres to the base lead better than pasted materials and therefore cycles more reUably. Against this, there is less active material on each plate and, inevitably, the energy density of the battery will suffer 7—12 Wh kg is typical. 

Battery development is ongoing. The lead-acid and nickel/cadmium systems will hold their dominant position in the field of stationary batteries. In the field of small portable power the nickel/metal hydride system has advantages because of its higher energy density compared to nickel/cadmium. 

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