Tech Talk - Battery Chemistry Explained
by Greg Doster, Safety Officer, Macon Aero Modelers
compiled from information at BatteryZONE Website
BATTERY TYPES AND CHARACTERISTICS:
Nickel Cadmium. (NiCD) NiCd (NiCad or Nickel Cadmium) batteries are prone to what's called "memory affect" They like to be fully drained before being recharged. When they're charged often without being run down first, they develop a "memory" which in time lowers their charge capacity and ultimately reduces their overall life expectancy. They are slightly less expensive than NIMH batteries and can be stored for much longer periods of time on a shelf while maintaining a relatively high charge capacity.
Nickel Metal Hydride. (NiMH) NiMH (Nickel Metal Hydride) are not near as prone to the "memory affect" and therefore can be charged at any time. They do not get as many charge cycles in their lifetime however, but your long-term battery life might still be better if you typically use NiCD batteries and don't wait until the battery has been drained down before charging. NiMH are generally significantly higher in capacity (up to 30% higher per charge than NiCd batteries of the same physical size), which means they last longer per charge, but are not great being stored for periods of time longer than 3-4 weeks.
NOTE: While NiMH batteries *can* be charged in a NiCd-only charger, it is not recommended. NiMH batteries run very hot, and NiCd-only chargers lack the circuitry to shut down charging on a NiMH battery, which if left unattended for too long a period of time, the battery could experience melting, venting, bursting or fire.
Lithium Ion. (LION) One of the latest rechargeable battery chemistries available. Lithium ION is not affected by the "memory effect". It can deliver the same capacity and run time in a smaller, lighter pack. The chemistry is most popular in cellular and lap top products and lighter styro-foam aircraft.
NOTE: If you do not have a charger designed to charge a Li-Ion battery, then Li-Ion is not even an option for you. Your charger MUST specify that it is a tri-chemistry charger or that it can specifically charge Li-Ion batteries.
Sealed Lead Acid (aka: Gel-Cell) Primarily used for field boxes and starter applications. Designed for steady, constant charging with an infrequent, yet heavy discharge.
This information was compiled from and a Huge Thank You to BatteryZONE.com a huge supplier of batteries for commercial and private use.
Greg
Safety Officer
Macon Aero Modelers, Inc.
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