Batteries Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Batteries - Research Paper Example Starter batteries are mainly used in applications that require short bursts of high power and are, mainly used in vehicles. Deep cycle batteries tolerate deep discharge; hence produce steady power for a considerate amount of time. Industrial batteries produce low but steady power for longer periods (Leadacidbatteryinfo.org, 2015). A normal lead acid battery consists of a combination of electro-chemical cells. The cells form the building blocks of the battery. The basic components of the cell are the anode, cathode, electrolyte and a separator. The anode consists of metal mesh that is pasted with lead oxide while the cathode is covered with lead. The anode, which is the positive electrode, receives electrons from the circuit when the cell is discharged. The cathode, which is the negative electrode, donates electrons while the electrolyte provides a mechanism for the charge to flow from the cathode to the anode. The electrolyte is usually a solution of sulphuric acid (30%) and water (70%). The separator ensures the electrodes are electrically isolated. The lead and lead and lead oxide grids are given a porous structure to increase the active surface. Due to positive grid corrosion, the thickness of the anode affects the lifetime of the battery; the thicker the plate, the longer the lifespan. dQ/dt = ï  ¥Ã¯â‚¬ ªÃ¯  ³Ã¯â‚¬ ªÃ¯ â€Ã¯â‚¬ ´Ã¯â‚¬  where ï  ¥Ã¯â‚¬  Ã¯â‚¬ ½Ã¯â‚¬  Stefan-Boltzmann constant (5.67*10-8),ï€  Ã¯  ³Ã¯â‚¬  Ã¯â‚¬ ½Ã¯â‚¬  emission ratio of the material (0.95 for battery containers)ï€ ¬Ã¯â‚¬  Ã¯ â€ is temperature in Kelvins. Example when T = 298K (Kiehne, 2003), The anode receives electrons from the external circuit. The electrons then react with active materials at the anode through the reduction reaction, which then continue the charge flow through the solution of the electrolyte. The lead oxide is converted to lead sulphate and absorps HSO4 and H+. Water is hence generated from the process. Oxidation occurs at the cathode. The