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.