BATTERY TECHNOLOGY

battery image A battery is basically a device that stores electricity for future use. It develops voltage from the chemical reaction produced when two unlike materials (e.g. the positive and negative lead terminals) are immersed in electrolyte (a solution of sulfuric acid and water). Vehicle batteries are typically of lead-acid type, whose primarily function is to deliver a short burst of high power to start the engine.

Electricity flows from the battery as soon as there is a circuit between the positive and negative terminals, which happens when any connected part of the circuit (e.g. the engine starter or a vehicle electrical device) needs electricity. This would discharge the battery but when the vehicle is driven, an alternator flows charge into the battery to restore the current.

If a battery discharges significantly, its lead plates become more chemically alike, the acid becomes weaker, and voltage drops. Eventually it will no longer deliver electricity at a useful voltage.

Many electrical devices can operate on minimal voltage but sensitive electronics can be damaged if not operating at the correct voltage. And a vehicle’s starter will typically require significant charge (e.g. 12.1V) to successfully start the engine. This is why many motorists have been in the frustrating position of having left their lights on and then being stranded.

It can take as few as three instances of full drainage to completely diminish the battery’s capability to start the engine – meaning it is dead. It then has to be replaced early, incurring cost, and also impacting the environment.

Environmental impact

An article on lead acid batteries used in vehicles and the environmental impact of their disposal or early recycling can be found on the environmental defense website.



		home + Our Products + Battery Technology	HOW BATTERY BRAIN WORKS Learn how Battery Brain ensures your battery retains enough charge to start your engine
		BATTERY TECHNOLOGY A battery is basically a device that stores electricity for future use. It develops voltage from the chemical reaction produced when two unlike materials (e.g. the positive and negative lead terminals) are immersed in electrolyte (a solution of sulfuric acid and water). Vehicle batteries are typically of lead-acid type, whose primarily function is to deliver a short burst of high power to start the engine. Electricity flows from the battery as soon as there is a circuit between the positive and negative terminals, which happens when any connected part of the circuit (e.g. the engine starter or a vehicle electrical device) needs electricity. This would discharge the battery but when the vehicle is driven, an alternator flows charge into the battery to restore the current. If a battery discharges significantly, its lead plates become more chemically alike, the acid becomes weaker, and voltage drops. Eventually it will no longer deliver electricity at a useful voltage. Many electrical devices can operate on minimal voltage but sensitive electronics can be damaged if not operating at the correct voltage. And a vehicle’s starter will typically require significant charge (e.g. 12.1V) to successfully start the engine. This is why many motorists have been in the frustrating position of having left their lights on and then being stranded. It can take as few as three instances of full drainage to completely diminish the battery’s capability to start the engine – meaning it is dead. It then has to be replaced early, incurring cost, and also impacting the environment. Environmental impact An article on lead acid batteries used in vehicles and the environmental impact of their disposal or early recycling can be found on the environmental defense website.
		back to top



	© Battery Brain 2005 + Privacy Policy + Terms of Use + Site Credits + Contact Us