Types of Batteries | New Topic [2024]

In this note, we will learn about Types of Batteries and their applications. Welcome to Poly Notes Hub, a leading destination for Engineering Notes for those students who are wants to learn everyday.

Author Name: Arun Paul.

Types of Batteries

There are 5 types of Batteries that are used in various places, like –

1. Lead-Acid Battery

A lead-acid battery is a rechargeable battery that stores and releases electrical energy via lead electrodes and a sulfuric acid electrolyte. It’s one of the oldest and most widely used types of rechargeable batteries. The fundamental design consists of lead dioxide as the positive electrode (cathode), metallic lead as the negative electrode (anode), and a sulfuric acid solution as the electrolyte.

When a battery is charged, an electrical current flows through it, creating a chemical reaction that transforms lead dioxide and leads to lead sulfate. During discharge, the opposite process occurs, reducing lead sulfate back to lead dioxide and lead while releasing electrical energy.

Applications of Lead-Acid Battery –

• Utilized to store energy generated by renewable sources such as solar panels and wind turbines for future consumption.
• Commonly used to provide the initial burst of electricity required to start the engine.
• Lead-acid batteries are used as deep-cycle batteries in maritime applications to power electrical systems on boats and ships.

2. Lithium-Ion Battery

Lithium-ion batteries are rechargeable batteries that use lithium ions as charge carriers. It is commonly utilized in a variety of electronic products, including smartphones, laptop computers, electric cars, and energy storage systems. A lithium-ion battery is made up of three components: a cathode (positive electrode), an anode (negative electrode), and an electrolyte.

The cathode is commonly made of a lithium metal oxide compound, such as lithium cobalt oxide (LiCoO2), lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4), or lithium manganese oxide (LiMn2O4). The anode is often composed of graphite or other carbon-based materials. The electrolyte consists of a lithium salt dissolved in an organic solvent.

Applications of Lithium-Ion Battery –

• Used in EVs like BEVs, HEVs, and PHEVs
• Used in portable electronics like Laptop, Mobile Phones, Smart Watches etc.
• Also used in Residential energy storage (home batteries) and Commercial and industrial energy storage.

3. Nickel-Cadmium Battery

A Nickel-Cadmium (NiCd) Battery is a type of rechargeable battery that uses nickel oxide hydroxide as the positive electrode (cathode), metallic cadmium as the negative electrode (anode), and an alkaline electrolyte solution that usually contains potassium hydroxide.

NiCd batteries were among the earliest types of rechargeable batteries invented and have been widely used since the mid-twentieth century. They provide various benefits, including a reasonably long cycle life, high discharge current capability, and resistance to overcharging and deep discharging.

Applications of Nickel-Cadmium Battery

• Used in smart boats and water crafts.
• Used in Electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) before the advent of lithium-ion batteries.
• Used in Uninterruptible power supplies and Emergency backup power for critical systems.

4. Nickel-Metal Hydride Battery

A Nickel-Metal Hydride (NiMH) Battery is a type of rechargeable battery that contains a nickel oxide hydroxide cathode, a hydrogen-absorbing alloy anode (metal hydride), and an alkaline electrolyte, usually potassium hydroxide. NiMH batteries are thought to be superior to nickel-cadmium (NiCd) batteries because of their increased energy density, lack of hazardous cadmium, and less sensitivity to the memory effect.

The nickel-metal hydride chemistry allows for a higher energy density than NiCd batteries, making NiMH batteries ideal for applications that require longer runtimes and more energy storage capacity. They also have a higher cycle life and a lower self-discharge rate than NiCd batteries.

Applications of Nickel-Metal Hydride Battery –

• Used used portable electronic devices like Cordless phones, Digital cameras, and Handheld gaming devices.
• NiMH batteries have been utilised as energy storage devices in hybrid automobiles, powering both electric motors and internal combustion engines.
• Also used in Portable medical equipment (e.g., infusion pumps, patient monitors) and Hearing aids.

5. Alkaline Battery

An alkaline battery is a disposable battery that uses an alkaline electrolyte (usually potassium hydroxide and zinc powder) as the negative electrode (anode) and manganese dioxide as the positive electrode. Alkaline batteries are among the most popular types of disposable batteries due to their high energy density, long shelf life, and adaptability.

The chemical reactions within an alkaline battery generate electricity by oxidizing the zinc anode and decreasing the manganese dioxide cathode. Alkaline batteries are well-known for their constant voltage output and ability to provide continuous power throughout their lives.

Applications of Alkaline Battery –

• Used in Remote controls, Flashlights, and Clocks and alarms.
• Used in Smoke detectors, Wireless keyboards and mice, and TV remotes
• Also used in Testing and measurement devices, Emergency backup lighting, and Radio communication equipment.