The positive active material is formed electrochemically from a cured plate, and influences the performance of the lead-acid battery. The electrolyte consists of a sulfuric acid solution, and as the battery discharges, the electrodes are converted into lead sulfate, which reverses when the battery is charged. The nominal voltage of this battery cell is 2 volts. The lead alloy is fashioned into a grid to hold the active material mechanically, and to conduct electricity between this material and the terminals of the battery. Calcium, silver, and cobalt are among many materials that can be used to make the lead stiffer.
Lead oxide is made into a dough-like material so it can be attached to the grid.
Additional Information New applications for battery power in fields such as storage, emergency power, and electric vehicles, as well as the more traditional uses in automobiles, boats and planes, warrants the continued dominant use of lead-acid batteries. These batteries are responsible for about half of all battery sales. The low price and typically local production of these systems makes them easy to use extensively and the least expensive storage battery. The lead-acid battery has several advantages. It is a secondary battery with a low cost, with varying rates of production worldwide.