Lead acid battery

Positive characteristics

• Extremely high current output - low internal resistance - very high conversion efficiency (80-85%).

• No voltage depression (“memory” effect).

• Can be tailored for particular use (eg, deep cycle).

• Low cost.

• Low to medium self discharge (8-40% per month).

Negative characteristics

• Dangerous chemicals used (lead, sulfuric acid).

• Heavy.

• Low storage density - “The energy a lead-acid battery stores per [kilogram] of battery is lower than just about any technology short of a potato wired with zinc plates.”

• Reduced capacity with increased temperature (50% with each 8°C).

• Reduced capacity under heavy loads (Peukert Effect) - worse than sealed lead acid.

• Cannot be stored flat.