Mathematical Model for Design of Battery Electrodes I . Potential Distribution

The potential distribution in thin electrodes of the automotive battery type was determined experimentally and predicted from a model. Potentials at various locations on the plates were measured in cells at various discharge rates and for different plate widths. A model, based on the application of Kirchoff's law to each intersection of grid members, was solved numerically to predict potential distribution. The measured and calculated potential distributions were in excellent agreement. The implications of the model are discussed with emphasis on the interaction between grid design, grid weight, and plate performance. Performance is measured in terms of the maximum (i.e., the tab-to-corner) ohmic potential loss. 7 refs.