LEARN ABOUT NICKEL CADMIUM BATTERIES
vijay tharad
Director Operations at Corporate Professional Academy for Technical Training & Career Development
Nowadays batteries are everywhere, you can find them in almost all modern electronics. From watches to computers and EVs to satellites. this wide range of applications calls for a wide range of sizes and types of batteries. Discussing all the available types of batteries is a very huge task and it's a topic for another day. So instead we will discuss the most common battery types we use in our everyday lives. So to start with let's look into the basics first.?
A battery is a collection of one or more cells that go under chemical reactions to create the flow of electrons within a circuit. There is lot of research and advancement going on in battery technology, and as a result, breakthrough technologies are being experienced and used around the world currently. Batteries came into play due to the need to store generated electrical energy. As much as a good amount of energy was being generated, it was important to store the energy so it could be used when generation is down or when there is a need to power standalone devices which could not be kept tethered to the supply from the mains. Here it should be noted that only DC can be stored in the batteries, AC can’t be stored. Batteries came into play not only due to the need to store generated electrical energy and for portability purposes.?
Battery cells are usually made up of three main components;
The anode is a negative electrode that produces electrons to the external circuit to which the battery is connected. When batteries are connected, an electron build-up is initiated at the anode which causes a potential difference between the two electrodes. The electrons naturally then try to redistribute themselves, this is prevented by the electrolyte, so when an electrical circuit is connected, it provides a clear path for the electrons to move from the anode to the cathode thereby powering the circuit to which it is connected. By changing the?arrangement?and material used to build the Anode, Cathode and Electrolyte?we can achieve?many?different types?of?battery chemistries enabling?us to design different types of battery cells. In this article lets understand the different types of batteries and their uses, so let's?get started.?
Types of Batteries
Batteries generally can be classified into different categories and types, ranging from chemical composition, size, form factor and use cases, but under all of these are two major battery types;
Let's take a deeper look to understand the major differences between a Primacy cell and Secondary? Cell.?
1. Primary Batteries
Primary batteries are batteries that cannot be recharged once depleted. Primary batteries are made of electrochemical cells whose electrochemical reaction cannot be reversed.
Primary batteries exist in different forms ranging from coin cells to AA batteries. They are commonly used in standalone applications where charging is impractical or impossible. A good example of which is in military grade devices and battery powered equipment. It will be impractical to use rechargeable batteries as recharging a battery will be the last thing in the mind of the soldiers. Primary batteries always have high specific energy and the systems in which they are used are always designed to consume low amount of power to enable the battery last as long as possible.
Some other examples of devices using primary batteries include; Pace makers, Animal trackers, Wrist watches, remote controls and children toys to mention a few.
The most popular type of primary batteries are alkaline batteries. They have a high specific energy and are environmentally friendly, cost-effective and do not leak even when fully discharged. They can be stored for several years, have a good safety record and can be carried on an aircraft without being subject to UN Transport and other regulations. The only downside to alkaline batteries is the low load current, which limits its use to devices with low current requirements like remote controls, flashlights and portable entertainment devices.?Other types of commonly used primary batteries include Zinc-Carbon batteries, Lithium batteries, mercury batteries, Silver-Oxide batteries, Zinc-air batteries and Zinc-Chloride batteries.
2. Secondary Batteries
Secondary batteries are batteries with electrochemical cells whose chemical reactions can be reversed by applying a certain voltage to the battery in the reversed direction. Also referred to as rechargeable batteries, secondary cells unlike primary cells can be recharged after the energy on the battery has been used up.
They are typically used in high drain applications and other scenarios where it will be either too expensive or impracticable to use single charge batteries. Small capacity secondary batteries are used to power portable electronic devices like mobile phones, and other gadgets and appliances while heavy-duty batteries are used in powering diverse electric vehicles and other high drain applications like load levelling in electricity generation. They are also used as standalone power sources alongside Inverters to supply electricity. Although the initial cost of acquiring rechargeable batteries is always a whole lot higher than that of primary batteries but they are the most cost-effective over the long-term. ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ??
Secondary batteries can be further classified into several other types based on their chemistry. This is very important because the chemistry determines some of the attributes of the battery including its specific energy, cycle life, shelf life, and price to mention a few.
WE will now cover every thing about NICKEL CADMIUM RECHARGEABLE BATTERIES.?
1. Nickel-Cadmium Batteries
What is a Nickel-Cadmium Battery : Working & Its Applications
Nickel-cadmium battery is a source for DC voltage. Due to its properties and advantages, it is taking over lead acid-based batteries and gaining popularity in recent times. It is small, compact, easily traveled from one place to another. General uses of this battery are toys, calculators, small DC motors, etc. Principle wise it is the same as lead accumulator based batteries. A metal is rolled with cadmium and separator layers and kept in redox so that the chemical reaction produces the DC voltage. Batteries have been popular for a long, and in an effort to increase the efficiency of the battery more and more chemical elements are used. This makes the construction compact.
What is a Nickel-Cadmium Battery?
It’s a device that produces, DC voltage based on the chemical reaction between the substances involved. In a nickel-cadmium battery, the redox material is used as a base, and around it, the layer of nickel and a separator are used. The nickel-cadmium cell voltage is around 1.2 V. When connected in series generally 3 to 4 cells are packed together to get an output of 3.6 to 4.8 V
Nickel-Cadmium Battery Theory
The operating principle of a nickel-cadmium battery is the same as other batteries. To improve efficiency, nickel and cadmium are used. A battery is the source of DC voltage, hence it must consist of two potential points i.e positive and negative or also called anode and cathode. In a nickel-cadmium battery, first, a layer of nickel oxide NiO2 is kept around the redox.
This layer of nickel oxide acts as a cathode layer. Above the nickel oxide layer, a layer of KaOH is kept, which acts as a separator. It must be noted that this separator layer must be soaked in water or moist. Its purpose is to provide required OH negative ions, for the chemical reaction. Above the separator layer, cadmium is placed. The cadmium layer acts as the anode for the nickel-cadmium battery. The nickel-cadmium battery diagram is shown below.
As shown, in the diagram, the nickel acts as a positive electrode collector and the cadmium layer acts as a negative layer collector. The separator layer between the two layers is made up of KOH or NaOH. Its purpose is to provide OH ions. Apart from these, it also consists of a safety valve, sealing plate, insulation ring, insulation gasket, and an outer case.
The purpose of the insulator ring is to provide insulation between the two layers. The insulator gasket is the place where the insulation ring is kept nearby. The separator layer is connected to this ring. The outer case is to provide protection to the inner layers from external factors such as damages and mishandling of the battery. It must be noted that, due to chemical reactions taking place within the batter, it always hazardous to work with the battery.
The case of the battery is never opened, as all the layers are exposed and it may cause harm to the person using. Similarly, when not in use, it is recommended to remove the battery out of the device.
Nickel Cadmium Battery Equations
The chemical equations representing the chemical reaction can be given as
The first equation represents the reaction between the cathode layer nickel and the separator. It gives an output of Nickel oxide OH ions. The need for the separator layer as mentioned before is the provide the OH ions required for the chemical reaction. For the provision of H20, the separator layer is soaked with water for the initial reaction. Later H2O is obtained as one of the byproducts.
On the anode side, the cadmium layer is also combined with OH ions which are obtained from the separators layer. This results in cadmium oxide and electrons. It may be noted that the electrons in both the equations get canceled. Also, OH ions get canceled. The reminder equation is given by the third equation, where nickel is combined with cadmium and water. It results in nickel oxide and cadmium oxide.
Nickel-Cadmium Battery Temperature Range
The temperature range for nickel battery is 0 to 45-degree centigrade during charging and -20 to 65 degrees centigrade during discharging. Beyond this temperature range, the battery fails to operate and even chances of explosion exist.
Nickel-Cadmium Battery Toxicity
Nickel-cadmium battery is very toxic to the human body. Cadmium is a heavy metal posing several risks to the human body. Cadmium even has a physiological effect on the system. The average presence of cadmium in the human body is approximately 1 microgram per liter. It has a direct effect on the digestive system. Similarly, nickel is also poisonous to the human respiratory system.
Nickel-cadmium battery voltage
In general, each voltage for a Nickel-cadmium battery would be approximately 1.2 V. Number of cells are connected in series or parallel to get the required voltage. Apart from the voltage, its specific energy is around 50-60 Wh per Kg. This is moderately high that nickel-iron, but relatively less than nickel-zinc and nickel-metal hydride batteries.
The specific power is 200 W per kg. This is moderately high than nickel-iron but relatively less than nickel-zinc and nickel-metal hydride batteries. For nickel-metal batteries, it is around 170-1000. For nickel-iron batteries, it is around 100. The energy efficiency is around 70-75%. This is moderately high than nickel-iron but relatively less than nickel-zinc and nickel-metal hydride batteries. For nickel-metal batteries, it is around 70-80 %. For nickel-iron batteries, it is around 60-70%.
Construction of Nickel-Cadmium Battery
Constructional, the nickel-cadmium battery is the same as lead acid-based batteries. It consists of three fundamental layers. The first one is a nickel layer, then the separator layer, and the cadmium layer. The nickel acts as a positive electrode collector and the cadmium layer acts as a negative layer collector.
The separator layer between the two layers is made up of KOH or NaOH. Its purpose is to provide OH ions. Apart from these, it also consists of a safety valve, sealing plate, insulation ring, insulation gasket, and an outer case. The purpose of the insulator ring is to provide insulation between the two layers. The insulator gasket is the place where the insulation ring is kept nearby. The separator layer is connected to this ring.
The outer case is to provide protection to the inner layers from external factors such as damages and mishandling of the battery. It must be noted that, due to chemical reactions taking place within the batter, it always hazardous to work with the battery. The layers along with the separator layer form the required chemical reaction and form the potential difference.
Nickel Cadmium Battery Working
The working of the nickel-cadmium battery is based on the chemical reaction taking place between the layers. The battery which is a source of DC voltage consists of two ports i.e. anode and cathode. While making the battery, first the cadmium layer is kept on the redox. The cadmium layer acts as the cathode terminal. Cadmium is one of the heavy material and has good conducting properties. Above the cadmium layer, separator layers are kept.
The purpose of the separator layer is to provide required OH ions for the chemical reaction. The OH ions are required for the reaction between the cathode layer nickel and the separator. It gives an output of Nickel oxide OH ions. The need for the separator layer as mentioned before is the provide the OH ions required for the chemical reaction. For the provision of H20, the separator layer is soaked with water for the initial reaction.
Later H2O is obtained as one of the byproducts. On the anode side, the cadmium layer is also combined with OH ions which are obtained from the separators layer. This results in cadmium oxide and electrons. It may be noted that the electrons in both the equations get canceled. Also, OH ions get canceled. The reminder equation is given by the third equation, where nickel is combined with cadmium and water. It results in nickel oxide and cadmium oxide. The chemical reaction is followed by the flow of electrons which causes the potential difference across two terminals.
Nickel Cadmium Battery Types
Nickel-cadmium battery classification is only done based on size and available voltage. Based on size it may be of AAA, AA, A, Cs, C, D, or F size. All these sizes come with different output voltage specifications. Some of them are cylindrical pipe-shaped and some of them are in a rectangular box-shaped outer case.
Advantages and Disadvantages
The advantages of Nickel Cadmium Battery are
The disadvantages of Nickel Cadmium Battery are
Nickel Cadmium Battery Applications
It has various applications like toys, small DC motors, calculators, fans, computers, etc.
Hence we have seen the applications, working, and details of nickel-cadmium battery. It is must be seen what are other material which can be combined with nickel since cadmium has hazardous effects.
Nickel-cadmium Battery
The nickel-cadmium battery (Ni-Cd battery) is a type of secondary battery using nickel oxide hydroxide Ni(O)(OH) as a cathode and metallic cadmium as an anode.
The battery has low internal impedance resulting in high power capabilities but lower energy storage capacity compared to other battery systems. It has long cycle life and the capability of rapid recharge but may suffer from voltage depression or memory effect, meaning that the maximum charge voltage will decrease and hence the energy capacity if continuously discharged shallowly.
The overall reaction during discharge is:
2NiOOH + Cd + 2H2O → 2Ni(OH)2 + ?Cd(OH)2
Nickel-cadmium Battery
The nickel-cadmium battery (Ni-Cd battery) is a type of secondary battery using nickel oxide hydroxide Ni(O)(OH) as a cathode and metallic cadmium as an anode. The abbreviation Ni-Cd is derived from the chemical symbols of nickel (Ni) and cadmium (Cd).
The battery has low internal impedance resulting in high power capabilities but lower energy storage capacity compared to other battery systems. It has long cycle life and the capability of rapid recharge but may suffer from voltage depression or memory effect, meaning that the maximum charge voltage will decrease and hence the energy capacity if continuously discharged shallowly. The greatest disadvantage is the content of cadmium. Unfortunately, cadmium is extremely toxic; therefore, the Ni-Cd will not be an alternative for a modern battery system.
Nowadays, the applications of nickel-cadmium batteries are in small-size portable devices such as power tools, toys, emergency lighting, medical instrumentation, or industrial portable products. It is used in small-size products because their cost for low-power applications is inexpensive but three to four times more expensive than lead-acid batteries for the same capacity.
Chemistry of Nickel-cadmium Batteries – How it works
A fully charged Ni-Cd cell contains:
Ni-Cd batteries usually have a metal case with a sealing plate equipped with a self-sealing safety valve. The positive and negative electrode plates, isolated from each other by the separator, are rolled in a spiral shape inside the case. This is known as the jelly-roll design and allows a Ni-Cd cell to deliver a much higher maximum current than an equivalent-size alkaline cell.
The positive electrode in the discharged state is composed of nickel hydroxide, which has been doped and modified to meet the battery requirements, and graphite as the conductive medium. The nickel cycles between two oxidation states during charge and discharge; upon the charge, the nickel hydroxide is converted into nickel oxyhydroxide (NiOOH):
2Ni(OH)2 + 2OH- →2NiOOH +2 H2O + 2e–
During discharge, the reactions at the nickel oxide electrode are:
2NiOOH +2H2O + 2e– → 2Ni(OH)2 + 2OH–?
The negative electrode consists of cadmium hydroxide, Cd(OH)2, which is reduced to metallic cadmium during charging. The reaction is reversed throughout the discharge process, changing the oxidation state of cadmium from 0 to 2+, releasing two electrons per cadmium atom partaking in the reaction. Below is the reaction for the anode during charge:?
Cd(OH)2 + 2e– → Cd + 2OH–
The chemical reactions at the cadmium electrode during discharge are:
Cd + 2OH– → Cd(OH)2 + 2e–
The overall reaction during discharge is:
2NiOOH + Cd + 2H2O → 2Ni(OH)2 + ?Cd(OH)2
Cadmium is a fairly hazardous metal on its own, therefore, a series of regulations and guidelines on how to handle it are in place by both governments all over the world and the EU.
The electrolyte acts as the ion charge carrier in batteries, and for Ni-Cd batteries, this mainly consists of concentrated potassium hydroxide, KOH, but may also have additions of sodium hydroxide, NaOH, and lithium hydroxide, LiOH.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Nickel-cadmium Batteries
Advantages:
The main advantage of rechargeable cells is that they may be recharged after discharge. Therefore, rechargeable batteries are more environmentally friendly than primary batteries. Not only can they be used repeatedly, but they generate less waste over the long term. This is particularly true in the case of power-intensive devices, which consume batteries at an increased rate. Another very important advantage is a high C-rate. Rechargeable cells have better power output capabilities compared to primary cells and are used for high-power applications.
There are several specific advantages to Ni-Cd batteries.
The NiCd battery has carved out a significant niche offering innovative solutions for a myriad of applications. Known for its robustness and reliability, this type of battery has become a popular choice in various devices, from portable electronics to emergency power systems. Its ability to deliver consistent power and withstand many charge and discharge cycles enhances its appeal. The advantages of Nickel Cadmium batteries are numerous, including their impressive cycle life, which ensures longevity and reliability in demanding situations.
But, let's not sugar-coat it – these batteries aren't perfect. The disadvantages? Well, the big one is the presence of cadmium. It's toxic, and that's an environmental headache when it comes to disposing of them. Understanding these pros and cons is essential for anyone looking to integrate these batteries into their devices or systems. It's not just about what they can do in your devices; it's also about what happens when they're done. In short, Nickel Cadmium batteries? They're a mixed bag. Great for certain applications, but you've got to weigh the pros and cons.
Key Takeaways?
Disadvantages:
Battery price is one of the challenging factors in choosing the right rechargeable battery for your device or applications. It greatly affects the decision of the buyer. Rechargeable batteries have higher initial costs than their primary counterparts. Another important disadvantage is their self-discharge. In low-drain applications, the service life is more important, and the self-discharge characteristics of a rechargeable battery mean that they are less suitable for use as the primary energy source.?
There are several specific disadvantages to Ni-Cd batteries.
Characteristics of Nickel-cadmium Batteries
To compare and understand the capability of each battery, some important parameters are characteristic of each battery, also within a type of battery. These parameters are a reference when a battery is needed, and specific qualities are required since batteries are used in all types of devices and for infinite purposes.
Cell Voltage
The voltage of electric batteries is created by the potential difference of the materials that compose the positive and negative electrodes in the electrochemical reaction.
A common open circuit voltage for Ni-Cd batteries (e.g. AAA and AA) is 1.2V.
Cut-off Voltage
The cut-off voltage is the minimum allowable voltage. It is this voltage that generally defines the “empty” state of the battery.
When testing the capacity of a NiMH or NiCd battery a cut-off voltage of?1.0 V per cell?is normally used, whereas 0.9 V is normally used as the cut-off voltage of an alkaline cell.
Capacity
The coulometric capacity is the total Amp-hours available when the battery is discharged at a certain discharge current from 100% SOC to the cut-off voltage.
Ni-Cd AA batteries feature a nominal voltage of 1.2 volts and an average capacity of?600-1000 mAh.
C-rate of Battery
C-rate is used to express how fast a battery is discharged or charged relative to its maximum capacity. It has units?h?1. A 1C rate means that the discharge current will discharge the entire battery in 1 hour.
NiCd batteries designed for fast charging can be charged with?currents that are several times the C-rating without extensive heat buildup.
Self-discharge
Batteries gradually self-discharge even if not connected and delivering current. This is due to non-current-producing “side” chemical reactions that occur within the cell even when no load is applied.
The self-discharge rate for a Ni-Cd battery is around 10%/month at 20 °C, and rising up to 20% at higher temperatures. It is recommended not to store Ni-Cd batteries for an extended amount of time without occasionally using the batteries.
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Degradation
Some degradation of rechargeable batteries occurs on each charge-discharge cycle. Degradation usually occurs because electrolyte migrates away from the electrodes or because active material detaches from the electrodes.
Ni-Cd batteries can provide?300 to more than 500 discharge/charge cycles.
Depth of Discharge
Depth of discharge is a measure of how much energy has been withdrawn from a battery and is expressed as a percentage of full capacity. For example, a 100 Ah battery from which 40 Ah has been withdrawn has undergone a 40% depth of discharge (DOD).
The?nickel–cadmium battery?(NiCd battery?or?NiCad battery) is a type of?rechargeable battery?which is developed?using nickel oxide hydroxide?and metallic?cadmium as?electrodes.? Ni-Cd batteries excel at maintaining voltage and holding charge when not in use. However, NI-Cd batteries easily fall a victim of the dreaded “memory” effect when a partially charged battery is recharged, lowering the future capacity of the battery.
In comparison with other types of rechargeable cells, Ni-Cd batteries offer good life cycle and performance at low temperatures with a fair capacity but their most significant advantage will be their ability to deliver their full rated capacity at high discharge rates. They are available in different sizes including the sizes used for alkaline batteries, AAA to D. Ni-Cd cells are used individual or assembled in packs of two or more cells. The small packs are used in portable devices, electronics and toys while the bigger ones find application in aircraft starting batteries, Electric vehicles and standby power supply.
Some of the properties of Nickel-Cadmium batteries are listed below.
Different battery sizes
As we know about different batteries based on their chemistry, now let's look into the different battery sizes or packages. Since covering all available packages is difficult and unnecessary we are going to look at the most commonly used battery types. To start with let's look at the different types of primary batteries we use. The image below shows the different non-rechargeable battery types we use every day. The bigger brothers D and C-type batteries are normally used in devices such as radios, cassette players, toys, and flashlights. The AA, AAA, and AAAA were commonly used in devices such as alarm clocks, portable electronics, ?remote controls, etc. The PP3 or 6F22 batteries are mostly used in industrial test equipment such as multimeters, cable testers, etc.
Another type of battery we use is the one commonly known as the coin battery. they are small in size and look like a coin or a button. they are most commonly used in devices with very low power consumption such as watches, calculators and car keys. you can also find them in most devices with an RTC in it. They are used in such devices only to provide backup power to RTC chips for timekeeping. Here are some of the most commonly used coin batteries.
Now if we look at the rechargeable batteries they are available in a ton of different package types. Here we are going to look at the different cylindrical rechargeable battery packages. the NiMH and NiCd batteries are available in common AAA or AA packages, while the Lithium-ion batteries come in their own specific package types. The most common type is the 18650 battery. which can be found in many rechargeable gadgets on the market. Most lithium-ion cylindrical packages are named in such a numeric scheme, in which the first two numbers denote the diameter while the second and third numbers indicate the length. For example, the 18650 battery will be 65mm in length and will have a diameter of 18mm. The below image shows the most popular lithium-iron battery packages.
Selecting the right battery for your application
One of the main problems hindering technology revolutions like IoT is power, battery life affects the successful deployment of devices that require long battery life and even though several power management techniques are being adopted to make the battery last longer, a compatible battery must still be selected to achieve the desired outcome.
Below are some factors to consider when selecting the right type of battery for your project.
1. Energy Density: ?The energy density is the total amount of energy that can be stored per unit mass or volume. This determines how long your device stays on before it needs a recharge.
2. Power Density: Maximum rate of energy discharge per unit mass or volume. Low power: laptop, i-pod. High power: power tools.
3. Safety: It is important to consider the temperature at which the device you are building will work. At high temperatures, certain battery components will breakdown and can undergo exothermic reactions. High temperatures generally reduces the performance of most batteries.
4. Life cycle durability: The stability of energy density and power density of a battery with repeated cycling (charging and discharging) is needed for the long battery life required by most applications.
5. Cost: Cost is an important part of any engineering decisions you will be making. It is important that the cost of your battery choice is commensurate with its performance and will not increase the overall cost of the project abnormally.
Explore: Nickel Cadmium Battery Advantages and Disadvantages
Nickel-Cadmium (Ni-Cd) batteries, a specific type of rechargeable battery, offer notable advantages and disadvantages. Their key strengths include high resistance to extreme temperatures, making them reliable in various conditions, and long cycle life, ensuring durability and fewer replacements. These batteries are available in diverse sizes, catering to different needs. However, they are challenged by higher costs compared to some other types, and environmental concerns due to the toxic nature of cadmium. Additionally, the memory effect can impact their efficiency, requiring careful management during the recharge process.
The NiCd battery has carved out a significant niche offering innovative solutions for a myriad of applications. Known for its robustness and reliability, this type of battery has become a popular choice in various devices, from portable electronics to emergency power systems. Its ability to deliver consistent power and withstand many charge and discharge cycles enhances its appeal. The advantages of Nickel Cadmium batteries are numerous, including their impressive cycle life, which ensures longevity and reliability in demanding situations.
But, let's not sugar-coat it – these batteries aren't perfect. The disadvantages? Well, the big one is the presence of cadmium. It's toxic, and that's an environmental headache when it comes to disposing of them. Understanding these pros and cons is essential for anyone looking to integrate these batteries into their devices or systems. It's not just about what they can do in your devices; it's also about what happens when they're done. In short, Nickel Cadmium batteries? They're a mixed bag. Great for certain applications, but you've got to weigh the pros and cons.
Key Takeaways
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What Are the Key Advantages of Nickel-Cadmium (Ni-Cd) Batteries in Modern Applications?
Nickel-Cadmium (Ni-Cd) batteries, a staple in the rechargeable battery world, offer a range of benefits that make them a go-to choice for various modern applications. Here are the key advantages:
Durability: Ni-Cd batteries are tough. They can withstand rough handling and harsh conditions, making them ideal for devices that need a reliable power source. This durability is a crucial factor in their widespread use.
High Discharge Rates: When it comes to power delivery, Ni-Cd batteries excel. They can handle high discharge rates without losing performance or capacity. This makes them perfect for applications like emergency lighting, where a sudden burst of power is essential.
Stable Performance in Extreme Temperatures: Ni-Cd batteries operate reliably in a wide range of temperatures. Whether it's freezing cold or scorching hot, these batteries work through it all. This consistent performance is key, especially if you're out in the elements.
Longevity and Rechargeability: These batteries last. You can recharge them numerous times, and they won't quit on you. That's good for your wallet and the environment. Less waste, lower costs.
Effective Energy Storage: Ni-Cd batteries offer efficient energy storage capabilities. Their cell design ensures that they retain a high capacity over many cycles, making them a dependable choice for devices you rely on daily.
Cost-Effectiveness: While the initial cost might be higher compared to some other batteries, the long-term savings due to their durability and rechargeability make Ni-Cd batteries a smart financial choice.
While Nickel-Cadmium batteries?offer a range?of benefits for?modern applications, it's equally?important to?consider the?flip side. Let's delve into?the disadvantages?that may impact?their usage and?how they balance against the advantages.
How Do the Disadvantages of Nickel-Cadmium Batteries Impact Their Usage?
While Nickel-Cadmium (Ni-Cd) batteries have their advantages, it's crucial to consider their drawbacks, especially in modern applications. Here's a breakdown of the key disadvantages:
Environmental Concerns: The heavy metal cadmium is bad news for the planet. It's toxic. When these batteries end up in a landfill, cadmium can get into the ground and water. That's a disaster for the environment. It's a big reason why some devices are moving away from Ni-Cd.
Memory Effect Issues: Ni-Cd batteries are notorious for their memory effect. If you don't fully discharge them before recharging, they 'remember' the shorter cycle and lose cycle life over time. This means they won't hold a full charge after a while, which can be a hassle for users who need consistent performance from their devices.
Disposal Challenges: Disposing of Ni-Cd batteries is not straightforward due to the toxic electrolyte and heavy metals (like cadmium) in the anode. Special care must be taken to recycle these cells properly, which can be inconvenient and sometimes costly.
Weight and Size: In a world where everything's getting smaller and lighter, Ni-Cd batteries are the opposite. They're chunky and heavy compared to other battery types. Not ideal for devices where size and weight matter.
Lower Energy Density: Compared to newer batteries, Ni-Cd doesn't store as much energy for its size. That's a downside for devices that need power for longer periods.
These disadvantages, particularly the environmental concerns and the memory effect, have led to a decline in the popularity of Ni-Cd batteries in certain applications.?
Understanding the limitations of Nickel-Cadmium batteries sets the stage for exploring their specific strengths. Next, we'll examine how these batteries excel in energy storage and photovoltaic applications, where their unique properties are particularly advantageous
In What Ways Does a Nickel-Cadmium Battery Excel in Energy Storage and PV Applications?
Nickel-Cadmium (Ni-Cd) batteries, known for their robustness and efficiency, have carved a niche in the realm of energy storage systems and photovoltaic (PV) applications. These batteries excel in various aspects, making them a preferred choice for specific needs. First off, they can handle extreme temperatures and rough treatment like champs. That's a big win for PV applications, where the weather can be all over the place. You need a battery that won't quit when it gets hot or cold, and Ni-Cd batteries are up for that challenge.
Their cycle life is another high point. These batteries can go through loads of charge-discharge cycles without losing their edge. That means they last longer, keeping the energy flowing consistently. This is key for solar energy systems, where you need a reliable power source over the long haul. Fewer battery swaps mean you save money and avoid hassle.
Another notable advantage of Ni-Cd batteries is their availability in a wide range of sizes and capacities. Ni-Cd batteries have plenty of options. Whether it's a small setup at home or a big commercial project, you can tailor your energy storage to fit. This flexibility is crucial for getting the most out of your solar panels.
Cost is an essential factor in the adoption of any technology, and Ni-Cd batteries strike a balance between affordability and performance. Sure, there are cheaper batteries out there. But with Ni-Cd, you're paying for durability and reliability. They might cost more upfront, but they tend to last longer and need less fuss. That can make them worth the extra cash, especially when you factor in their long life and low maintenance.
The exceptional performance of Nickel-Cadmium batteries in energy storage and PV systems leads us to question what makes them a preferred choice in certain scenarios. Let's explore the factors that contribute to their selection over alternative battery technologies.
Nickel cadmium batteries are commonly used in power tools
What Makes Nickel-Cadmium a Preferred Choice for Certain Battery Applications?
Nickel-cadmium (Ni-Cd) batteries, with their distinct attributes, have emerged as the go-to rechargeable battery for specific applications, notably in emergency lighting, aviation, Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) and power tools. Why? Well, it boils down to a few things. First, they're extremely reliable. In emergency lighting, you can't have batteries that quit on you during a blackout. Ni-Cd batteries stay on, which is a lifesaver in buildings and on aeroplanes. They're built tough, too. They can endure harsh conditions – think high vibrations in the air or the rough and tumble of power tools – and still keep going. That's a big deal for their life expectancy.
The cost-effectiveness of Ni-Cd batteries plays a significant role in their popularity. While the initial costs might be higher compared to other batteries, their long life and low maintenance requirements offer long-term savings. This aspect is particularly appealing in commercial sectors where minimising operational costs is essential. Additionally, the ability of Ni-Cd batteries to perform exceptionally well under a wide range of temperatures further solidifies their position as a preferred choice in these specialised fields.?
The unique combination of reliability, durability, cost-effectiveness, and temperature resilience makes nickel cadmium batteries an ideal choice for certain applications. They're tough, they don't bail on you when it gets hot or cold, and over time, they're kinder to your budget. In the world of rechargeable batteries, that's what sets them apart.?
The cadmium component in Ni-Cd batteries is a double-edged sword, enhancing performance while raising environmental concerns. We'll investigate how cadmium influences both the efficiency and ecological footprint of these batteries.
How Does the Cadmium Component Affect the Performance and Environmental Impact of Ni-Cd Batteries?
Cadmium within the Ni-Cd battery plays a pivotal yet controversial role. On one hand, it's a key player in boosting battery performance; on the other, it's a source of significant environmental concern. The anode in these batteries, made of cadmium, works in tandem with the nickel oxide hydroxide cathode. This combination is what gives Ni-Cd batteries their power and reliability. The electrolyte, another crucial part of these batteries, facilitates the efficient transfer of ions between the anode and cathode, further enhancing performance.
But here's the catch: cadmium is bad news for the environment. When these batteries are tossed out carelessly, especially in landfills, cadmium can seep into the ground and water. That's a recipe for pollution. The cells in these batteries, loaded with cadmium, are a headache to deal with once they're spent.
Recycling them? It's tough. You can't just dump cadmium anywhere. It needs special handling and processes to recycle, which means more time and money. Plus, there are regulatory issues surrounding the use of cadmium. Many regions have strict regulations governing the use, disposal, and recycling of cadmium-containing batteries, reflecting the growing awareness of their environmental impact.?
A study in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences titled 'Selective Recovery of Cadmium, cobalt, and Nickel from Spent Ni-Cd Batteries using Adogen@464 and Mesoporous Silica Derivatives ', focuses on the recovery of cadmium, cobalt, and nickel from spent Ni-Cd batteries. Optimal leaching conditions were identified, achieving high efficiency in recovering these metals. Cadmium was successfully extracted using Adogen? 464 and precipitated as CdS. The study also involved adsorption of cobalt using a prepared silica adsorbent. Overall, the research demonstrates effective methods for environmentally friendly recovery and separation of valuable metals from spent batteries, highlighting the potential for reducing environmental impact through recycling processes (1).
In summary, while cadmium is essential for the high performance of Ni-Cd batteries, working effectively with the nickel oxide hydroxide cathode and the electrolyte, it also brings significant environmental challenges. These include toxicity, recycling complexities, and regulatory hurdles, all of which are important considerations in the ongoing use and development of this type of battery. The dual role of cadmium in Ni-Cd batteries is a classic example of a technological trade-off between performance and environmental responsibility. Public Health England gives guidance on cadmium metal incident management highlighting the dangers of this metal when not disposed of properly.?
With a clearer picture of cadmium's impact, it's time to weigh the long-term advantages and disadvantages of using Nickel-Cadmium batteries. This comprehensive view will help us understand their role in sustainable energy strategies.
What Are the Long-Term Advantages and Disadvantages of Using Nickel Cadmium Batteries?
In exploring the long-term use of Nickel-Cadmium batteries, it's essential to weigh both sides of the coin. The self-discharge rate of these batteries is a key part of their overall performance, influencing their suitability for various applications. Additionally, factors such as the type of cells used in Nickel-Cadmium batteries significantly impact their efficiency and longevity. This section will delve into these aspects, providing a balanced view of the advantages and disadvantages of using this battery technology over time.
How Do Nickel-Cadmium Batteries Compare to Other Battery Types in Terms of Advantages and Limitations?
When comparing Nickel-Cadmium batteries to other types, several key aspects come into play. The ability to charge efficiently, the composition of the electrolyte, and the sizes available are all crucial factors. Additionally, the use of nickel oxide hydroxide in these batteries plays a part in defining their performance characteristics. This section will examine how these elements contribute to the advantages and limitations of Nickel-Cadmium batteries in contrast to other battery technologies.
What is the Average Number of Charge-Discharge Cycles of Ni-Cd Batteries Compared to Other Battery Types?
Nickel-cadmium batteries are known for their high charge-discharge cycle rate. The graph below shows how they compare against other battery types.
It's important to note that the actual cycle life of a battery can vary widely based on usage conditions, maintenance, charging practices, and the specific design and quality of the battery. Manufacturers often provide guidelines and specifications to help users maximise the cycle life of their batteries.?
Having discussed the cycle life of Ni-Cd batteries, we turn our attention to a direct comparison with lithium batteries. Let's examine the specific advantages that NiCad batteries hold over their lithium counterparts.
What are the Advantages of a NiCad Battery Over a Lithium Battery?
When comparing Nickel-Cadmium (NiCad) batteries with their Lithium counterparts, several advantages of NiCad technology become apparent, particularly in specific operational contexts. One of the standout features of NiCad batteries is their exceptional resistance to extreme temperature conditions. Unlike Lithium batteries, which can struggle in very cold or hot environments, NiCad batteries maintain consistent performance, making them ideal for applications in harsh climates.
Another significant advantage is their physical robustness. NiCad batteries are known for their durability, thanks to their sturdy cell construction and reliable separator technology. This robustness means they are less prone to damage from impacts or vibrations, a crucial factor in industrial settings where batteries are subjected to rough handling.
NiCad batteries also excel in providing a stable discharge rate over time. This consistent power output, unaffected by the number of charge cycles, is a key part of their appeal in applications where power consistency is critical. In contrast, Lithium batteries can experience fluctuations in discharge efficiency over their lifespan.
Cost-effectiveness is another area where NiCad batteries shine. Their longer cycle life can lead to significant long-term savings. Although they have a lower energy density than Lithium batteries, the longevity and durability of NiCad batteries often offset this drawback, especially in applications where high energy density is not the primary requirement.
NiCads have their place. They're tough, reliable in extreme weather, consistent in power delivery, and cost-effective over time. In certain situations, especially in industrial and commercial settings, they're a solid choice, even with Lithium batteries getting all the attention.
Beyond the Memory Effect: The Nickel Cadmium Battery Moving Forward
In conclusion, the journey of the Nickel-Cadmium battery reveals a complex landscape shaped by its unique components and characteristics. The electrolyte, anode, and cathode within these cells form the core of their functionality, each playing a pivotal role in their overall performance. While the memory effect has been a notable challenge, advancements in technology continue to mitigate this issue, enhancing the recharge capabilities of these batteries. The resistance of the ni-cd battery to extreme temperatures and harsh conditions remains one of their most valued attributes, making them suitable for a wide range of applications. As we have seen, their ability to maintain consistent performance over numerous charge cycles, coupled with their robustness, positions them as a reliable power source in various settings.?
However, the environmental concerns associated with their components, particularly cadmium, cannot be overlooked and continue to drive research toward more sustainable solutions. Ultimately, the future of Nickel-Cadmium batteries lies in balancing their inherent strengths with the evolving demands for environmental safety and efficiency in battery technology. As we move forward, it is clear that Nickel-Cadmium batteries will continue to be a significant part of the conversation in the world of energy storage and power supply.
Applications
Sealed Ni–Cd cells may be used individually, or assembled into battery packs containing two or more cells. Small cells are used for portable electronics and toys (such as solar garden lights), often using cells manufactured in the same sizes as primary cells. When Ni–Cd batteries are substituted for primary cells, the lower terminal voltage and smaller ampere-hour capacity may reduce performance as compared to primary cells. Miniature button cells are sometimes used in photographic equipment, hand-held lamps (flashlight or torch), computer-memory standby, toys, and novelties.
Specialty Ni–Cd batteries are used in cordless and wireless telephones, emergency lighting, and other applications. With a relatively low internal resistance , they can supply high surge currents. This makes them a favourable choice for remote-controlled electric model airplanes, boats, and cars, as well as cordless power tools and camera flash units.
Larger flooded cells are used for aircraft starting batteries, electric vehicles, and standby power.
Popularity
Advances in battery-manufacturing technologies throughout the second half of the twentieth century have made batteries increasingly cheaper to produce. Battery-powered devices in general have increased in popularity. As of 2000, about 1.5 billion Ni–Cd batteries were produced annually. Up until the mid-1990s, Ni–Cd batteries had an overwhelming majority of the market share for rechargeable batteries in home electronics.
At one point, Ni–Cd batteries accounted for 8% of all portable secondary (rechargeable) battery sales in the EU, and in the UK for 9.2% (disposal) and in Switzerland for 1.3% of all portable battery sales.
In the EU the 2006 Battery Directive restricted sales of Ni–Cd batteries to consumers for portable devices.
Availability
Ni–Cd cells are available in the same sizes as alkaline batteries, from AAA through D, as well as several multi-cell sizes, including the equivalent of a 9-volt battery. A fully charged single Ni–Cd cell, under no load, carries a potential difference of between 1.25 and 1.35 volts, which stays relatively constant as the battery is discharged. Since an alkaline battery near fully discharged may see its voltage drop to as low as 0.9 volts, Ni–Cd cells and alkaline cells are typically interchangeable for most applications.
In addition to single cells, batteries exist that contain up to 300 cells (nominally 360 volts, actual voltage under no load between 380 and 420 volts). This multi-cell design is mostly used in automotive and heavy-duty industrial applications. For portable applications, the number of cells is normally below 18 cells (24?V). Industrial-sized flooded batteries are available with capacities ranging from 12.5?Ah up to several hundred Ah.
Comparison with other batteries
Recently, nickel-metal hydride and lithium-ion batteries have become commercially available and cheaper, the former type now rivaling Ni–Cd batteries in cost. Where energy density is important, Ni–Cd batteries are now at a disadvantage compared with nickel–metal hydride and lithium-ion batteries. However, the Ni–Cd battery is still very useful in applications requiring very high discharge rates because it can endure such discharge with no damage or loss of capacity.
When compared to other forms of rechargeable battery, the Ni–Cd battery has a number of distinct advantages:
The primary trade-off with Ni–Cd batteries is their higher cost and the use of cadmium. This heavy metal is an environmental hazard, and is highly toxic to all higher forms of life. They are also more costly than lead–acid batteries because nickel and cadmium cost more. One of the biggest disadvantages is that the battery exhibits a very marked negative temperature coefficient. This means that as the cell temperature rises, the internal resistance falls. This can pose considerable charging problems, particularly with the relatively simple charging systems employed for lead-acid type batteries. Whilst lead–acid batteries can be charged by simply connecting a dynamo to them, with a simple electromagnetic cut-out system for when the dynamo is stationary or an over-current occurs, the Ni–Cd battery under a similar charging scheme would exhibit thermal runaway, where the charging current would continue to rise until the over-current cut-out operated or the battery destroyed itself. This is the principal factor that prevents its use as engine-starting batteries. Today with alternator-based charging systems with solid-state regulators, the construction of a suitable charging system would be relatively simple, but the car manufacturers are reluctant to abandon tried-and-tested technology.
Memory effect
Ni–Cd batteries may suffer from a "memory effect" if they are discharged and recharged to the same state of charge hundreds of times. The apparent symptom is that the battery "remembers" the point in its discharge cycle where recharging began and during subsequent use suffers a sudden drop in voltage at that point, as if the battery had been discharged. The capacity of the battery is not actually reduced substantially. Some electronics designed to be powered by Ni–Cd batteries are able to withstand this reduced voltage long enough for the voltage to return to normal. However, if the device is unable to operate through this period of decreased voltage, it will be unable to get enough energy out of the battery, and for all practical purposes, the battery appears "dead" earlier than normal.
There is evidence that the memory effect story originated from orbiting satellites, where they were similarly charging and discharging with every orbit around the Earth over a period of several years.After this time, it was found that the capacities of the batteries had declined significantly, but were still fit for use. It is unlikely that this precise repetitive charging (for example, 1,000 charges/discharges with less than 2% variability) could ever be reproduced by individuals using electrical goods. The original paper describing the memory effect was written by GE scientists at their Battery Business Department in Gainesville, Florida, and later retracted by them, but the damage was done.
The battery survives thousands of charges/discharges cycles. Also it is possible to lower the memory effect by discharging the battery completely about once a month. This way apparently the battery does not "remember" the point in its charge cycle.
An effect with similar symptoms to the memory effect is the so-called voltage depression or lazy battery effect. This results from repeated overcharging; the symptom is that the battery appears to be fully charged but discharges quickly after only a brief period of operation. In rare cases, much of the lost capacity can be recovered by a few deep-discharge cycles, a function often provided by automatic battery chargers. However, this process may reduce the shelf life of the battery. If treated well, a Ni–Cd battery can last for 1,000 cycles or more before its capacity drops below half its original capacity. Many home chargers claim to be "smart chargers" which will shut down and not damage the battery, but this seems to be a common problem.
Environmental impact[edit]
Ni–Cd batteries contain between 6% (for industrial batteries) and 18% (for commercial batteries) cadmium, which is a toxic heavy metal and therefore requires special care during battery disposal.
In the United States, the expected battery recyling cost (to be used for proper disposal at the end of the service lifetime) is rolled into the battery purchase price.
Under the so-called "batteries directive" (2006/66/ec), the sale of consumer Ni–Cd batteries has now been banned within the European Union except for medical use; alarm systems; emergency lighting; and portable power tools. This last category has been banned effective 2016. Under the same EU directive, used industrial Ni–Cd batteries must be collected by their producers in order to be recycled in dedicated facilities.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTION AND ANSWERS
What are the different types of batteries?
Which is bigger AAA or AA battery?
1. AAA battery is smaller in size than AA battery. Energy storing capacity is proportional to the size of the battery. So even both batteries could give same voltage, AA battery will give it that output for a long time.
What is the basic knowledge of battery?
Batteries are made up of three basic components: an anode, a cathode, and an electrolyte. A separator is often used to prevent the anode and cathode from touching, if the electrolyte is not sufficient. In order to store these components, batteries usually have some kind of casing
What is a nickel cadmium battery used for?
A nickel-cadmium battery (NiCd or NiCad) is a rechargeable battery used for portable computers, drills, camcorders and other small battery-operated devices requiring an even power discharge. NiCds use electrodes made of nickel oxide hydroxide, metallic cadmium and an alkaline electrolyte of potassium hydroxide.
How long do nickel cadmium batteries last?
15 to 20 years. The normal lifetime of a Nicd battery, in a typically harsh environment back-up power application, is in the range of 15 to 20 years. Occasionally, Saft batteries exceed their normal life expectancy by more than 35%.
How do you recharge a nickel cadmium rechargeable battery?
The cheapest way to charge a nickel cadmium battery is to charge at C/10 (10% of the rated capacity per hour) for 16 hours.. So a 100 mAH battery would be charged at 10 mA for 16 hours. This method does not require an end-of-charge sensor and ensures a full charge.