Gel Battery Technology

Of the many types of batteries on the market, one category is the lead acid battery. The technology behind gel cell batteries, which fall in this category, offer numerous benefits for specific applications.

Composition

Gel cell batteries are composed of lead plates with calcium in them, which distinguishes them from wet cell batteries, which use antimony. This type of battery employs less electrolyte, or battery acid, than others and adds silicon to what it does use, giving it a solid-gel consistency.

Function

When the positive and negative ends of a gel cell battery are attached to a source that needs power, creating a closed circuit, the potential electrical energy stored within the battery is released, thanks to the gel electrolyte's chemical. It moves slowly due to the thick lead plates found in the gel cells. After some time, the sulfur in the electrolyte will stick to the plates, causing the battery to lose a charge. Recharging the battery reverses the process, loosening the sulfur from the plates to rejoin the electrolyte solution, which again creates the battery's potential electrical energy.

Benefits

Since gel cell batteries have thicker lead plates than other batteries, they are not good for giving a quick charge and should not be used as starter batteries, like those used when starting a car. They are, however, excellent when a continuous supply of electricity is needed. Their gel electrolyte also makes them safer than other batteries because they will not leak when tipped over or punctured.

References

• Battery Stuff: Battery Tutorial
• Von Wentzel: Battery Types -- Floorded Versus AGM and Gel
• Battery Web: Gel Battery