Lead Acid

Lead acid is a tried and true rechargeable power system, providing a costeffective and readily available solution. Despite its lower energy density, lead acid often is utilized in critical applications where size and weight is not an issue, such as oceanographic surveying devices and military vehicle applications. Lead acid batteries operate most efficiently at moderate temperatures so deployments in cold or deep ocean environments or where extended exposure to elevated temperatures can be expected may result in reduced capability.

Lead acid batteries are moderately robust to shock and vibration induced by ocean’s waves; however, the system eventually can yield to continuous pounding. The environmental impact of lead acid also must be considered – it is highly toxic and remains so forever after the battery is used. Lead acid batteries must be recycled and all of the materials tightly controlled for health and environmental reasons, so a mission-critical device utilizing lead acid batteries must be positioned in an ultimately retrievable location.

Lithium-Ion

Rechargeable Li-ion battery packs are ideal for small, portable applications in environments with less harsh temperatures

Li-ion’s limited upper temperature range also restricts use in certain extreme environment applications, such as downhole drilling and aerospace devices. This system is, however, the fastest growing of all rechargeables in both the consumer and commercial segment, and as such will see continued improvements in terms of performance envelope and safety, with increased adoption in a variety of applications.

Alkaline Cells

The well-known alkaline battery can be a suitable choice in mission-critical activities despite its low energy density.