A SIMPLIFIED MODEL OF THE LEAD-ACID-BATTERY

A mathematical model for the simulation of the lead/acid battery has been developed, based on the physical and chemical processes that occur in the battery. The model is based on theories of porous electrodes and more detailed models of the electrodes and battery that have been published earlier. The model has been simplified by the introduction of integral mean values, thereby reducing the computing time for simulation of the battery. The model can predict limitations of the discharge capacity caused by different phenomena, such as electrolyte depletion in the pores and coverage of the electroactive surface by the precipitated reaction products, as determining by cell geometry and discharged mode. The model shows good agreement with experimental data for discharge, both at constant current and during an electrical-vehicle test cycle.