Understanding Function and Performance of Carbon Additives in Lead-Acid Batteries

DOE PAGES

Enos, D. G.; Ferreira, S. R.; Barkholtz, H. M.; ...

2017-10-31

While the low cost and strong safety record of lead-acid batteries make them an appealing option compared to lithium-ion technologies for stationary storage, they can be rapidly degraded by the extended periods of high rate, partial state-of-charge operation required in such applications. Degradation occurs primarily through a process called hard sulfation, where large PbSO 4 crystals are formed on the negative battery plates, hindering charge acceptance and reducing battery capacity. Various researchers have found that the addition of some forms of excess carbon to the negative active mass in lead-acid batteries can mitigate hard sulfation, but the mechanism through whichmore » this is accomplished is unclear. In this work, the effect of carbon composition and morphology was explored by characterizing four discrete types of carbon additives, then evaluating their effect when added to the negative electrodes within a traditional valve-regulated lead-acid battery design. The cycle life for the carbon modified cells was significantly larger than an unmodified control, with cells containing a mixture of graphitic carbon and carbon black yielding the greatest improvement. The carbons also impacted other electrochemical aspects of the battery (e.g., float current, capacity, etc.) as well as physical characteristics of the negative active mass, such as the specific surface area.« less

Lead-acid batteries in micro-hybrid applications. Part II. Test proposal

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schaeck, S.; Stoermer, A. O.; Albers, J.; Weirather-Koestner, D.; Kabza, H.

In the first part of this work [1] selected key parameters for applying lead-acid (LA) batteries in micro-hybrid power systems (MHPS) were investigated. Main results are integrated in an accelerated, comprehensive test proposal presented here. The test proposal aims at a realistic representation of the pSoC operation regime, which is described in Refs. [1,6]. The test is designed to be sensitive with respect to dynamic charge acceptance (DCA) at partially discharged state (critical for regenerative braking) and the internal resistance at high-rate discharge (critical for idling stop applications). First results are presented for up-to-date valve-regulated LA batteries with absorbent glass mat (AGM) separators. The batteries are close to the limits of the first proposal of pass/fail-criteria. Also flooded batteries were tested; the first out of ten units failed already.

Testing of sealed lead-acid batteries

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bush, D. M.; Sealey, J. D.; Miller, D. W.

1984-02-01

Sealed lead acid batteries under development were tested. The goal was to develop a totally maintenance free sealed lead acid battery capable of deep discharge operation in a photovoltaic power system. Sealed lead acid batteries and a group of conventional, flooded lead acid batteries were exposed to a matrix test plan, with some approaching 1000 cycles. This performance was achieved with the standard National Electrical Manufacturers' Association cycle test, and the partial state of charge cycle test. Modes of failure are investigated.

Silver-silver sulfate reference electrodes for use in lead-acid batteries

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ruetschi, Paul

Electrochemical properties of silver-silver sulfate reference electrodes for lead-acid batteries are described, and the following possible applications discussed: Determination of individual capacities of positive and negative plates. Monitoring individual electrode behavior during deep discharge and cell reversal. Optimization charge or discharge parameters, by controlling the current such that pre-determined limits of positive or negative half-cell potential are respected. Observation of acid concentration differences, for example due to acid stratification, by measuring diffusion potentials (concentration-cell voltages). Detection of defective cells, and defective plate sets, in a string of cells, at the end of their service life. Silver-silver sulfate reference electrodes, permanently installed in lead-acid cells, may be a means to improve battery management, and therewith to improve reliability and service life. In vented batteries, reference electrodes may be used to limit positive plate polarization during charge, or float-charge. Limiting the positive half-cell potential to an upper, pre-set value would permit to keep anodic corrosion as low as possible. During cycling, discharge could be terminated when the half-cell potential of the positive electrode has dropped to a pre-set limit. This would prevent excessive discharge of the positive electrodes, which could result in an improvement of cycle life. In valve-regulated batteries, reference electrodes may be used to adjust float-charge conditions such as to assure sufficient cathodic polarization of the negative electrodes, in order to avoid sulfation. The use of such reference electrodes could be beneficial particularly in multi-cell batteries, with overall voltages above 12 V, operated in a partial-state-of-charge.

Lead-acid batteries in micro-hybrid applications. Part I. Selected key parameters

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schaeck, S.; Stoermer, A. O.; Kaiser, F.; Koehler, L.; Albers, J.; Kabza, H.

Micro-hybrid electric vehicles were launched by BMW in March 2007. These are equipped with brake energy regeneration (BER) and the automatic start and stop function (ASSF) of the internal combustion engine. These functions are based on common 14 V series components and lead-acid (LA) batteries. The novelty is given by the intelligent onboard energy management, which upgrades the conventional electric system to the micro-hybrid power system (MHPS). In part I of this publication the key factors for the operation of LA batteries in the MHPS are discussed. Especially for BER one is high dynamic charge acceptance (DCA) for effective boost charging. Vehicle rest time is identified as a particular negative parameter for DCA. It can be refreshed by regular fully charging at elevated charge voltage. Thus, the batteries have to be outstandingly robust against overcharge and water loss. This can be accomplished for valve-regulated lead-acid (VRLA) batteries at least if they are mounted in the trunk. ASSF goes along with frequent high-rate loads for warm cranking. The internal resistance determines the drop of the power net voltage during cranking and is preferably low for reasons of power net stability even after years of operation. Investigations have to be done with aged 90 Ah VRLA-absorbent glass mat (AGM) batteries. Battery operation at partial state-of-charge gives a higher risk of deep discharging (overdischarging). Subsequent re-charging then is likely to lead to the formation of micro-short circuits in the absorbent glass mat separator.

Sulfation in lead-acid batteries

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Catherino, Henry A.; Feres, Fred F.; Trinidad, Francisco

Virtually, all military land vehicle systems use a lead-acid battery to initiate an engine start. The maintainability of these batteries and as a consequence, system readiness, has suffered from a lack of understanding of the reasons for battery failure. Often, the term most commonly heard for explaining the performance degradation of lead-acid batteries is the word, sulfation. Sulfation is a residual term that came into existence during the early days of lead-acid battery development. The usage is part of the legend that persists as a means for interpreting and justifying the eventual performance deterioration and failure of lead-acid batteries. The usage of this term is confined to the greater user community and, over time, has encouraged a myriad of remedies for solving sulfation problems. One can avoid the connotations associated with the all-inclusive word, sulfation by visualizing the general "sulfation" effect in terms of specific mechanistic models. Also, the mechanistic models are essential for properly understanding the operation and making proper use this battery system. It is evident that the better the model, the better the level of understanding.

Bipolar lead acid battery development

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Eskra, Michael; Vidas, Robin; Miles, Ronald; Halpert, Gerald; Attia, Alan; Perrone, David

1991-01-01

A modular bipolar battery configuration is under development at Johnson Control, Inc. (JCI) and the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL). The battery design, incorporating proven lead acid electrochemistry, yields a rechargeable, high-power source that is light weight and compact. This configuration offers advantages in power capability, weight, and volume over conventional monopolar batteries and other battery chemistries. The lead acid bipolar battery operates in a sealed, maintenance-free mode allowing for maximum application flexibility. It is ideal for high-voltage and high-power applications.

Influence of residual elements in lead on oxygen- and hydrogen-gassing rates of lead-acid batteries

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lam, L. T.; Ceylan, H.; Haigh, N. P.; Lwin, T.; Rand, D. A. J.

Raw lead materials contain many residual elements. With respect to setting 'safe' levels for these elements, each country has its own standard, but the majority of the present specifications for the lead used to prepare battery oxide apply to flooded batteries that employ antimonial grids. In these batteries, the antimony in the positive and negative grids dominates gassing characteristics so that the influence of residual elements is of little importance. This is, however, not the case for valve-regulated lead-acid (VRLA) batteries, which use antimony-free grids and less sulfuric acid solution. Thus, it is necessary to specify 'acceptable' levels of residual elements for the production of VRLA batteries. In this study, 17 elements are examined, namely: antimony, arsenic, bismuth, cadmium, chromium, cobalt, copper, germanium, iron, manganese, nickel, selenium, silver, tellurium, thallium, tin, and zinc. The following strategy has been formulated to determine the acceptable levels: (i) selection of a control oxide; (ii) determination of critical float, hydrogen and oxygen currents; (iii) establishment of a screening plan for the elements; (iv) development of a statistical method for analysis of the experimental results. The critical values of the float, hydrogen and oxygen currents are calculated from a field survey of battery failure data. The values serve as a base-line for comparison with the corresponding measured currents from cells using positive and negative plates produced either from the control oxide or from oxide doped with different levels of the 17 elements in combination. The latter levels are determined by means of a screening plan which is based on the Plackett-Burman experimental design. Following this systematic and thorough exercise, two specifications are proposed for the purity of the lead to be used in oxide production for VRLA technology.

Operational experience and performance characteristics of a valve-regulated lead-acid battery energy-storage system for providing the customer with critical load protection and energy-management benefits at a lead-recycling plant

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hunt, G. W.

The Power Control Division of GNB Technologies, commissioned on May 13, 1996 a new facility which houses a 5-MW battery energy-storage system (BESS) at GNB's Lead Recycling Centre in Vernon, CA. When the plant loses utility power (which typically happens two or three times a year), the BESS will provide up to 5 MW of power at 4160 VAC in support of all the plant loads. Since the critical loads are not isolated, it is necessary to carry the entire plant load (maximum of 5 MVA) for a short period immediately following an incident until non-critical loads have been automatically shed. Plant loading typically peaks at 3.5 MVA with critical loads of about 2.1 MVA. The BESS also provides the manufacturing plant with customer-side-of-the-meter energy management options to reduce its energy demand during peak periods of the day. The BESS has provided a reduction in monthly electric bills through daily peak-shaving. By design, the battery can provide up to 2.5 MWh of energy and still retain 2.5 MWh of capacity in reserve to handle the possibility of a power outage in protecting the critical loads for up to 1 h. By storing energy from the utility during off-peak hours of the night in the batteries when the cost is low (US4.5¢ per kWh), GNB can then discharge this energy during high demand periods of the day (US14.50 per kW). For example, by reducing its peak demand by 300 kW, the lead-recycling centre can save over US4000 per month in its electric bills. The BESS at Vernon represents a first large-scale use of valve-regulated lead-acid batteries in such a demanding application. This paper presents a summary of the operational experience and performance characteristics of the BESS over the past 2 years.

Modeling of the cranking and charging processes of conventional valve regulated lead acid (VRLA) batteries in micro-hybrid applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gou, Jun; Lee, Anson; Pyko, Jan

2014-10-01

The cranking and charging processes of a VRLA battery during stop-start cycling in micro-hybrid applications were simulated by one dimensional mathematical modeling, to study the formation and distribution of lead sulfate across the cell and analyze the resulting effect on battery aging. The battery focused on in this study represents a conventional VRLA battery without any carbon additives in the electrodes or carbon-based electrodes. The modeling results were validated against experimental data and used to analyze the "sulfation" of negative electrodes - the common failure mode of lead acid batteries under high-rate partial state of charge (HRPSoC) cycling. The analyses were based on two aging mechanisms proposed in previous studies and the predictions showed consistency with the previous teardown observations that the sulfate formed at the negative interface is more difficult to be converted back than anywhere else in the electrodes. The impact of cranking pulses during stop-start cycling on current density and the corresponding sulfate layer production was estimated. The effects of some critical design parameters on sulfate formation, distribution and aging over cycling were investigated, which provided guidelines for developing models and designing of VRLA batteries in micro-hybrid applications.

Development of new sealed bipolar lead-acid battery

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Attia, Alan I.; Rowlette, J. J.

1987-01-01

New light weight composite bipolar plates which can withstand the corrosive environment of the lead acid battery have made possible the construction of a sealed bipolar lead acid battery that promises to achieve very high specific power levels and substantially higher energy densities than conventional lead acid batteries. Performance projections based on preliminary experimental results show that the peak specific power of the battery can be as high as 90 kW/kg, and that a specific power of 5 kW/kg can be sustained over several thousand pulses.

The lead and lead-acid battery industries during 2002 and 2007 in China

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, H. Y.; Li, A. J.; Finlow, D. E.

In the past 15 years, the center of the international lead market has shifted to China. China has become the largest producer of raw and refined lead, plus the largest consumer. This paper reviews the status of the lead and lead-acid battery industries in China, including lead mining, lead refining, secondary lead production, the lead-acid battery industry, new opportunities for lead-acid batteries, and the environmental problems associated with lead and lead-acid batteries. The output of raw and refined lead has increased annually in China, and now accounts for more than 30% of the world total. As a result of a change in the Chinese government's policy regarding the export of lead, plus an increase in the price of lead, the profits of Chinese lead manufacturers were significantly reduced, the trade deficit of the Chinese lead industry increased, the operating rates of lead smelter enterprises greatly reduced, and some small enterprises were forced to shut down. At the present time, an increasing number of enterprises have begun to produce secondary lead, and the scale of production has expanded from tens of tons to tens of thousands of tons. In 2006, the output of secondary lead in China reached 700,000 tons, but outdated technology and equipment limited development of the secondary lead industry. Because of serious pollution problems, raw material shortages, and fierce price competition in the battery market, changes in the development of the lead-acid battery industry have been dramatic; approximately one thousand medium-sized and small lead-acid battery producers have been closed in the past 3 years. The output of large lead-acid battery enterprises has not been reduced, however, as a result of their manufacturing technology and equipment being comparable to those in other advanced industrial countries. In China, the flourishing development of electric bicycles, electric tricycles, and photovoltaic energy systems should provide ongoing opportunities for the

Lightweight, durable lead-acid batteries

DOEpatents

Lara-Curzio, Edgar [Lenoir City, TN; An, Ke [Knoxville, TX; Kiggans, Jr., James O.; Dudney, Nancy J [Knoxville, TN; Contescu, Cristian I [Knoxville, TN; Baker, Frederick S [Oak Ridge, TN; Armstrong, Beth L [Clinton, TN

2011-09-13

A lightweight, durable lead-acid battery is disclosed. Alternative electrode materials and configurations are used to reduce weight, to increase material utilization and to extend service life. The electrode can include a current collector having a buffer layer in contact with the current collector and an electrochemically active material in contact with the buffer layer. In one form, the buffer layer includes a carbide, and the current collector includes carbon fibers having the buffer layer. The buffer layer can include a carbide and/or a noble metal selected from of gold, silver, tantalum, platinum, palladium and rhodium. When the electrode is to be used in a lead-acid battery, the electrochemically active material is selected from metallic lead (for a negative electrode) or lead peroxide (for a positive electrode).

Lightweight, durable lead-acid batteries

DOEpatents

Lara-Curzio, Edgar; An, Ke; Kiggans, Jr., James O; Dudney, Nancy J; Contescu, Cristian I; Baker, Frederick S; Armstrong, Beth L

2013-05-21

A lightweight, durable lead-acid battery is disclosed. Alternative electrode materials and configurations are used to reduce weight, to increase material utilization and to extend service life. The electrode can include a current collector having a buffer layer in contact with the current collector and an electrochemically active material in contact with the buffer layer. In one form, the buffer layer includes a carbide, and the current collector includes carbon fibers having the buffer layer. The buffer layer can include a carbide and/or a noble metal selected from of gold, silver, tantalum, platinum, palladium and rhodium. When the electrode is to be used in a lead-acid battery, the electrochemically active material is selected from metallic lead (for a negative electrode) or lead peroxide (for a positive electrode).

Recycling and management of waste lead-acid batteries: A mini-review.

PubMed

Li, Malan; Liu, Junsheng; Han, Wei

2016-04-01

As a result of the wide application of lead-acid batteries to be the power supplies for vehicles, their demand has rapidly increased owing to their low cost and high availability. Accordingly, the amount of waste lead-acid batteries has increased to new levels; therefore, the pollution caused by the waste lead-acid batteries has also significantly increased. Because lead is toxic to the environment and to humans, recycling and management of waste lead-acid batteries has become a significant challenge and is capturing much public attention. Various innovations have been recently proposed to recycle lead and lead-containing compounds from waste lead-acid batteries. In this mini-review article, different recycling techniques for waste lead-acid batteries are highlighted. The present state of such recycling and its future perspectives are also discussed. We hope that this mini-review can provide useful information on recovery and recycling of lead from waste lead-acid batteries in the field of solid waste treatment. © The Author(s) 2016.

High power bipolar lead-acid batteries

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Halpert, Gerald; Attia, Alan

1991-01-01

The Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL), with interest in advanced energy storage systems, is involved in the development of a unique lead acid battery design. This battery utilizes the same combination of lead and lead dioxide active materials present in the automobile starting battery. However, it can provide 2 to 10 times the power while minimizing volume and weight. The typical starting battery is described as a monopolar type using one current collector for both the positive and negative plate of adjacent cells. Specific power as high as 2.5 kW/kg was projected for 30 second periods with as many as 2000 recharge cycles.

The refining of secondary lead for use in advanced lead-acid batteries

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ellis, Timothy W.; Mirza, Abbas H.

Secondary lead, i.e. material produced by the recycling of lead-acid batteries has become the primary source of lead in much of the world. This has been important to the secondary lead industry as other uses have dwindled, e.g. lead based pigments, chemicals, fuel additives, solders and CRT glasses [1]. Presently, battery manufacturing accounts for greater than 80% of lead consumption while recycled lead accounts for approximately the same market share of lead supply. These two facts strongly demonstrate the battery manufacturing and recycled lead are intimately coupled in everyday life. In this paper we will explore how recycled lead has become the material of choice for battery construction through the development of a recovery and refining process that exceeds the industries requirements. Particular focus will be on addressing the results presented by Prengaman [2] on the effects of contaminant or tramp elements on gassing in lead-acid batteries.

Equipment for testing automotive lead/acid batteries under SAE J240a conditions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hamilton, J. A.; Rand, D. A. J.

Battery cycling equipment has been designed and constructed to test lead/acid batteries according to the American Society of Automotive Engineers' (SAE) J240a Standard. This life test simulates automotive service where the battery operates in a voltage-regulated charging system. The CSIRO design uses a master/slave concept to reduce both construction time and cost.

Effects of phosphoric acid on the lead-acid battery reactions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ikeda, Osamu; Iwakura, Chiaki; Yoneyama, Hiroshi; Tamura, Hideo

1986-10-01

The addition of a small amount of phosphoric acid to 5 M H2SO4 (commercial electrolyte of lead-acid batteries) results in various positive effects on the lead-acid battery reactions: (1) depression of the corrosion rate of the lead substrate through a preferential formation of alpha-PbO2 on the substrate surface; (2) retardation of hard sulfate formation or of deactivation of active materials; and (3) change in the crystal morphology of PbSO2 formed on the discharge of PbO2. Most of these effects results from chemisorption of phosphoric acid on PbSO4 crystals produced in the discharge process of PbO2.

The development of a new sealed bipolar lead-acid battery

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Attia, A. I.; Rowlette, J. J.

1988-01-01

New light weight composite bipolar plates which can withstand the corrosive environment of the lead acid battery have made possible the construction of a sealed bipolar lead acid battery that promises to achieve very high specific power levels and substantially higher energy densities than conventional lead acid batteries. Performance projections based on preliminary experimental results show that the peak specific power of the battery can be as high as 90 kW/kg, and that a specific power of 5 kW/kg can be sustained over several thousand pulses.

Advanced lead acid battery development

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2001-03-01

Researchers at the University of Idaho have been investigating the possibility of using lead acid batteries in electric and hybrid vehicles for more than ten years, and the funding from the U.S. Department of Transportation's University Transportatio...

Charge Efficiency Tests of Lead/Acid Batteries

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rowlette, J. J.

1984-01-01

Current, voltage, and gas evolution measured during charge/discharge cycles. Series of standarized tests for evaluating charging efficiency of lead/acid storage batteries described in report. Purpose of tests to provide information for design of battery charger that allows maximum recharge efficiency for electric-vehicle batteries consistent with other operating parameters, such as range, water loss, and cycle life.

ABLE project: Development of an advanced lead-acid storage system for autonomous PV installations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lemaire-Potteau, Elisabeth; Vallvé, Xavier; Pavlov, Detchko; Papazov, G.; Borg, Nico Van der; Sarrau, Jean-François

In the advanced battery for low-cost renewable energy (ABLE) project, the partners have developed an advanced storage system for small and medium-size PV systems. It is composed of an innovative valve-regulated lead-acid (VRLA) battery, optimised for reliability and manufacturing cost, and an integrated regulator, for optimal battery management and anti-fraudulent use. The ABLE battery performances are comparable to flooded tubular batteries, which are the reference in medium-size PV systems. The ABLE regulator has several innovative features regarding energy management and modular series/parallel association. The storage system has been validated by indoor, outdoor and field tests, and it is expected that this concept could be a major improvement for large-scale implementation of PV within the framework of national rural electrification schemes.

Blood lead levels among rural Thai children exposed to lead-acid batteries from solar energy conversion systems.

PubMed

Swaddiwudhipong, Witaya; Tontiwattanasap, Worawit; Khunyotying, Wanlee; Sanreun, Cherd

2013-11-01

We evaluate blood lead levels among Thai children to determine if exposure to lead-acid batteries is associated with elevated blood lead levels (EBLL). We screened 254 children aged 1-14 years old from 2 rural Thai villages for blood lead levels. We also screened 18 of 92 houses in these 2 villages for the presence of environmental lead. The overall prevalence of EBLL (> or = 10 microg/dl) was 43.3% and the mean lead level among study subjects was 9.8 +/- 5.1 microg/dl. The blood lead levels significantly decreased with increasing age. Fifty point eight percent of children who lived in a house with vented lead-acid batteries had EBLL while 23.3% of children who lived in a house without vented lead-acid batteries had EBLL. Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed a significant positive association between the presence of vented lead-acid batteries and EBLL, after adjusting for other variables. Forty-two point nine percent of house floor dust samples collected near the batteries had elevated lead levels, 7.1% of house floor dust samples collected from other areas in the house had elevated lead levels and 0% of the house floor dust samples collected in houses without vented lead-acid batteries had elevated lead levels. In the sampled houses with vented lead-acid batteries, lead contamination was found in the drinking-water kept in household containers, but not in the tap water or other village sources of water. Improper care and placement of vented lead-acid batteries can result in lead contamination in the home environment causing EBLL in exposed children.

Spent lead-acid battery recycling in China - A review and sustainable analyses on mass flow of lead.

PubMed

Sun, Zhi; Cao, Hongbin; Zhang, Xihua; Lin, Xiao; Zheng, Wenwen; Cao, Guoqing; Sun, Yong; Zhang, Yi

2017-06-01

Lead is classified to be one of the top heavy metal pollutants in China. The corresponding environmental issues especially during the management of spent lead-acid battery have already caused significant public awareness and concern. This research gives a brief overview on the recycling situation based on an investigation of the lead industry in China and also the development of technologies for spent lead-acid batteries. The main principles and research focuses of different technologies including pyrometallurgy, hydrometallurgy and greener technologies are summarized and compared. Subsequently, the circulability of lead based on the entire life cycle analyses of lead-acid battery is calculated. By considering different recycling schemes, the recycling situation of spent lead-acid battery in China can be understood semi-quantitatively. According to this research, 30% of the primary lead production can be shut down that the lead production can still ensure consecutive life cycle operation of lead-acid battery, if proper management of the spent lead-acid battery is implemented according to current lead industry situation in China. This research provides a methodology on the view of lead circulability in the whole life cycle of a specific product and is aiming to contribute more quantitative guidelines for efficient organization of lead industry in China. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Gelled-electrolyte batteries for electric vehicles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tuphorn, Hans

Increasing problems of air pollution have pushed activities of electric vehicle projects worldwide and in spite of projects for developing new battery systems for high energy densities, today lead/acid batteries are almost the single system, ready for technical usage in this application. Valve-regulated lead/acid batteries with gelled electrolyte have the advantage that no maintenance is required and because the gel system does not cause problems with electrolyte stratification, no additional appliances for central filling or acid addition are required, which makes the system simple. Those batteries with high density active masses indicate high endurance results and field tests with 40 VW-CityStromers, equipped with 96 V/160 A h gel batteries with thermal management show good results during four years. In addition, gelled lead/acid batteries possess superior high rate performance compared with conventional lead/acid batteries, which guarantees good acceleration results of the car and which makes the system recommendable for application in electric vehicles.

Waste minimization charges up recycling of spent lead-acid batteries

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Queneau, P.B.; Troutman, A.L.

Substantial strides are being made to minimize waste generated form spent lead-acid battery recycling. The Center for Hazardous Materials Research (Pittsburgh) recently investigated the potential for secondary lead smelters to recover lead from battery cases and other materials found at hazardous waste sites. Primary and secondary lead smelters in the U.S. and Canada are processing substantial tons of lead wastes, and meeting regulatory safeguards. Typical lead wastes include contaminated soil, dross and dust by-products from industrial lead consumers, tetraethyl lead residues, chemical manufacturing by-products, leaded glass, china clay waste, munitions residues and pigments. The secondary lead industry also is developingmore » and installing systems to convert process inputs to products with minimum generation of liquid, solid and gaseous wastes. The industry recently has made substantial accomplishments that minimize waste generation during lead production from its bread and butter feedstock--spent lead-acid batteries.« less

System for agitating the acid in a lead-acid battery

DOEpatents

Weintraub, Alvin; MacCormack, Robert S.

1987-01-01

A system and method for agitating the acid in a large lead-sulfuric acid storage battery of the calcium type. An air-lift is utilized to provide the agitation. The air fed to the air-lift is humidified prior to being delivered to the air-lift.

Serum neuron-specific enolase, biogenic amino-acids and neurobehavioral function in lead-exposed workers from lead-acid battery manufacturing process.

PubMed

Ravibabu, K; Barman, T; Rajmohan, H R

2015-01-01

The interaction between serum neuron-specific enolase (NSE), biogenic amino-acids and neurobehavioral function with blood lead levels in workers exposed to lead form lead-acid battery manufacturing process was not studied. To evaluate serum NSE and biogenic amino-acids (dopamine and serotonin) levels, and neurobehavioral performance among workers exposed to lead from lead-acid storage battery plant, and its relation with blood lead levels (BLLs). In a cross-sectional study, we performed biochemical and neurobehavioral function tests on 146 workers exposed to lead from lead-acid battery manufacturing process. BLLs were assessed by an atomic absorption spectrophotometer. Serum NSE, dopamine and serotonin were measured by ELISA. Neurobehavioral functions were assessed by CDC-recommended tests---simple reaction time (SRT), symbol digit substitution test (SDST), and serial digit learning test (SDLT). There was a significant correlation (r 0.199, p<0.05) between SDST and BLL. SDLT and SRT had also a significant positive correlation (r 0.238, p<0.01). NSE had a negative correlation (r -0.194, p<0.05) with serotonin level. Multiple linear regression analysis revealed that both SRT and SDST had positive significant associations with BLL. SRT also had a positive significant association with age. Serum NSE cannot be used as a marker for BLL. The only domain of neurobehavioral function tests that is affected by increased BLL in workers of lead-acid battery manufacturing process is that of the "attention and perception" (SDST).

Closure device for lead-acid batteries

DOEpatents

Ledjeff, Konstantin

1983-01-01

A closure device for lead-acid batteries includes a filter of granulated activated carbon treated to be hydrophobic combined with means for preventing explosion of emitted hydrogen and oxygen gas. The explosion prevention means includes a vertical open-end tube within the closure housing for maintaining a liquid level above side wall openings in an adjacent closed end tube. Gases vent from the battery through a nozzle directed inside the closed end tube against an impingement surface to remove acid droplets. The gases then flow through the side wall openings and the liquid level to quench any possible ignition prior to entering the activated carbon filter. A wick in the activated carbon filter conducts condensed liquid back to the closure housing to replenish the liquid level limited by the open-end tube.

Lead-acid batteries in solar photovoltaic power systems for marine aids to navigation. Final report

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Trenchard, S.E.

1981-10-01

Since 1974, the U.S. Coast Guard has been testing lead-acid batteries in solar photovoltaic-powered systems for aids to navigation. Three types of lead-acid batteries, distinguished by the composition of their grid material, have been tested: lead-antimony grid, lead-calcium grid, and pure-lead grid. This report contains a comparison of the charging characteristics and the charge-discharge cycling behavior of each grid type. All types were remarkably similar qualitatively in their daily as well as annual cycling behavior but the significance of the quantitative differences offer distinctive tradeoffs. This report presents models for water usage, depth-of-discharge, and post-cycle capacity for various levels ofmore » voltage regulation. Based on the post-cycle capacity tests, the effect of grid strength, grid thickness, and operating conditions on life expectancy are presented. A final discussion presents the results of a field deployment of solar photovoltaic-powered aids to navigation in the Miami, Florida area. Potential solutions to the battery terminal corrosion and bird guano problems observed are discussed.« less

Further demonstration of the VRLA-type UltraBattery under medium-HEV duty and development of the flooded-type UltraBattery for micro-HEV applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Furukawa, J.; Takada, T.; Monma, D.; Lam, L. T.

The UltraBattery has been invented by the CSIRO Energy Technology in Australia and has been developed and produced by the Furukawa Battery Co., Ltd., Japan. This battery is a hybrid energy storage device which combines a super capacitor and a lead-acid battery in single unit cells, taking the best from both technologies without the need of extra, expensive electronic controls. The capacitor enhances the power and lifespan of the lead-acid battery as it acts as a buffer during high-rate discharging and charging, thus enabling it to provide and absorb charge rapidly during vehicle acceleration and braking. The laboratory results of the prototype valve-regulated UltraBatteries show that the capacity, power, available energy, cold cranking and self-discharge of these batteries have met, or exceeded, all the respective performance targets set for both minimum and maximum power-assist HEVs. The cycling performance of the UltraBatteries under micro-, mild- and full-HEV duties is at least four times longer than that of the state-of-the-art lead-acid batteries. Importantly, the cycling performance of UltraBatteries is proven to be comparable or even better than that of the Ni-MH cells. On the other hand, the field trial of UltraBatteries in the Honda Insight HEV shows that the vehicle has surpassed 170,000 km and the batteries are still in a healthy condition. Furthermore, the UltraBatteries demonstrate very good acceptance of the charge from regenerative braking even at high state-of-charge, e.g., 70% during driving. Therefore, no equalization charge is required for the UltraBatteries during field trial. The HEV powered by UltraBatteries gives slightly higher fuel consumption (cf., 4.16 with 4.05 L/100 km) and CO 2 emissions (cf., 98.8 with 96 g km -1) compared with that by Ni-MH cells. There are no differences in driving experience between the Honda Insight powered by UltraBatteries and by Ni-MH cells. Given such comparable performance, the UltraBattery pack costs

Hybrid systems with lead-acid battery and proton-exchange membrane fuel cell

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jossen, Andreas; Garche, Juergen; Doering, Harry; Goetz, Markus; Knaupp, Werner; Joerissen, Ludwig

Hybrid systems, based on a lead-acid battery and a proton-exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) give the possibility to combine the advantages of both technologies. The benefits for different applications are discussed and the practical realisation of such systems is shown. Furthermore a numerical model for such a hybrid system is described and results are shown and discussed. The results show that the combination of lead-acid batteries and PEMFC shows advantages in case of applications with high peak power requirements (i.e. electric scooter) and applications where the fuel cell is used as auxiliary power supply to recharge the battery. The high efficiency of fuel cells at partial load operation results in a good fuel economy for recharging of lead-acid batteries with a fuel cell system.

Results of electric-vehicle propulsion system performance on three lead-acid battery systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ewashinka, J. G.

1984-01-01

Three types of state of the art 6 V lead acid batteries were tested. The cycle life of lead acid batteries as a function of the electric vehicle propulsion system design was determined. Cycle life, degradation rate and failure modes with different battery types (baseline versus state of the art tubular and thin plate batteries were compared. The effects of testing strings of three versus six series connected batteries on overall performance were investigated. All three types do not seem to have an economically feasible battery system for the propulsion systems. The tubular plate batteries on the load leveled profile attained 235 cycles with no signs of degradation and minimal capacity loss.

Results of electric-vehicle propulsion system performance on three lead-acid battery systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ewashinka, J. G.

1984-01-01

Three types of state of the art 6 V lead acid batteries were tested. The cycle life of lead acid batteries as a function of the electric vehicle propulsion system design was determined. Cycle life, degradation rate and failure modes with different battery types (baseline versus state of the art tubular and thin plate batteries) were compared. The effects of testing strings of three versus six series connected batteries on overall performance were investigated. All three types do not seem to have an economically feasible battery system for the propulsion systems. The tubular plate batteries on the load leveled profile attained 235 cycles with no signs of degradation and minimal capacity loss.

Lead identification in soil surrounding a used lead acid battery smelter area in Banten, Indonesia

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Adventini, N.; Santoso, M.; Lestiani, D. D.; Syahfitri, W. Y. N.; Rixson, L.

2017-06-01

A used lead acid battery smelter generates particulates containing lead that can contaminate the surrounding environment area. Lead is a heavy metal which is harmful to health if it enters the human body through soil, air, or water. An identification of lead in soil samples surrounding formal and informal used lead acid battery smelters area in Banten, Indonesia using EDXRF has been carried out. The EDXRF accuracy and precision evaluated from marine sediment IAEA 457 gave a good agreement to the certified value. A number of 16 soil samples from formal and informal areas and 2 soil samples from control area were taken from surface and subsurface soils. The highest lead concentrations from both lead smelter were approximately 9 folds and 11 folds higher than the reference and control samples. The assessment of lead contamination in soils described in Cf index was in category: moderately and strongly polluted by lead for formal and informal lead smelter. Daily lead intake of children in this study from all sites had exceeded the recommended dietary allowance. The HI values for adults and children living near both lead smelter areas were greater than the value of safety threshold 1. This study finding confirmed that there is a potential health risk for inhabitants surrounding the used lead acid battery smelter areas in Banten, Indonesia.

An averaging battery model for a lead-acid battery operating in an electric car

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bozek, J. M.

1979-01-01

A battery model is developed based on time averaging the current or power, and is shown to be an effective means of predicting the performance of a lead acid battery. The effectiveness of this battery model was tested on battery discharge profiles expected during the operation of an electric vehicle following the various SAE J227a driving schedules. The averaging model predicts the performance of a battery that is periodically charged (regenerated) if the regeneration energy is assumed to be converted to retrievable electrochemical energy on a one-to-one basis.

Progress and challenges in bipolar lead-acid battery development

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bullock, Kathryn R.

1995-05-01

Bipolar lead-acid batteries have higher power densities than any other aqueous battery system. Predicted specific powers based on models and prototypes range from 800 kW/kg for 100 ms discharge times to 1.6 kW/kg for 10 s. A 48 V automotive bipolar battery could have 2 1/2 times the cold cranking rate of a monopolar 12 V design in the same size. Problems which have precluded the development of commercial bipolar designs include the instability of substrate materials and enhanced side reactions. Design approaches include pseudo-bipolar configurations, as well as true bipolar designs in planar and tubular configurations. Substrate materials used include lead and lead alloys, carbons, conductive ceramics, and tin-oxide-coated glass fibers. These approaches are reviewed and evaluated.

Lead-acid battery construction

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rowlette, John J. (Inventor)

1988-01-01

The power characteristics of a lead-acid battery are improved by incorporating a dispersion of 1 to 10% by weight of a thermodynamically stable conductivity additive, such as conductive tin oxide coated glass fibers (34) of filamentary glass wool (42) in the positive active layer (32) carried on the grid (30) of the positive plate (16). The avoiding of positive plate reversal to prevent reduction of the tin oxide is accomplished by (a) employing an oversized positive plate and pre-charging it; (b) by pre-discharging the negative plate; and/or (c) by placing a circuit breaker (26) in combination with the plates (16, 18) and terminals (22, 24) to remove the load when the voltage of the positive plate falls below a pre-selected level.

Development status of a sealed bipolar lead/acid battery for high-power battery applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Arias, J. L.; Rowlette, J. J.; Drake, E. D.

A sealed bipolar lead/acid (SBLA) battery is being developed by Arias Research Associates (ARA) which will offer a number of important advantages in applications requiring high power densities. These applications include electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrid electric vehicles, uninterruptable power supplies (UPS), electrically-heated catalysts (EHCs) for automobiles, utility-power peak-shaving, and others. The advantages of the SBLA over other types of batteries will by significantly higher power density, together with good energy density, high cycle life, high voltage density, low production cost and zero maintenance. In addition, the lead/acid battery represents a technology which is familiar and accepted by Society, is recyclable within the existing infrastructure, and does not raise the safety concerns of many other new batteries (e.g., fire, explosion and toxic gases). This paper briefly reviews the basic design concepts and issues of the SBLA battery technology, various quasi-bipolar approaches and the results of ARA's development work during the past four years. Performance data are given based on both in-house and independent testing of ARA laboratory test batteries. In addition, performance projections and other characteristics are given for three ARA SBLA battery designs, which are compared with other batteries in three example applications: UPS, EHCs, and EVs. The most notable advantages of the SBLA battery are substantial reductions in product size and weight for the UPS, smaller packaging and longer life for the EHC, and higher vehicle performance and lower cost for the EV, compared to both existing and advanced EV batteries.

Evaluation of a new charge algorithm for a lead-acid battery with gelled electrolyte using a 96V gel cell IV as a test battery

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Nowak, D.K.

1989-10-01

This document has reported a summary of test results obtained utilizing the new UAH charge algorithm for Lead-Acid batteries with gelled electrolyte. The battery performance data for a 96V Phase IV Gel/Cell battery pack was tested in a Jet Industries Electrica vehicle. It was shown that the new charge concept is sound although there can be problems with batteries that are highly imbalanced and where excessive electronic noise is experienced on the electronic signal feed-back line that carries the voltage sensor signals from the battery. Additional work is needed to add intelligence to the charge algorithm in terms of amore » better ability to extract the beginning of gas development from the voltage spread function. This can probably be accomplished by scanning the voltages more often and including that data into the function analysis by adding software filters. The Phase IV Gel/Cell battery performance was found to be about 20% lower than that of the Phase III Gel/Cell battery. Problems with cell valve leakage were encountered in the Phase IV Gel/Cell that pose a threat to battery life although so far no battery module has been lost. 2 refs., 13 figs., 4 tabs.« less

Minimisation of the LCOE for the hybrid power supply system with the lead-acid battery

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kasprzyk, Leszek; Tomczewski, Andrzej; Bednarek, Karol; Bugała, Artur

2017-10-01

The paper presents the methodology of minimisation of the unit cost of production of energy generated in the hybrid system compatible with the lead-acid battery, and used to power a load with the known daily load curve. For this purpose, the objective function in the form of the LCOE and the genetic algorithm method were used. Simulation tests for three types of load with set daily load characteristics were performed. By taking advantage of the legal regulations applicable in the territory of Poland, regarding the energy storing in the power system, the optimal structure of the prosumer solar-wind system including the lead-acid battery, which meets the condition of maximum rated power, was established. An assumption was made that the whole solar energy supplied to the load would be generated in the optimised system.

Eco-Balance analysis of the disused lead-acid-batteries recycling technology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kamińska, Ewa; Kamiński, Tomasz

2017-10-01

The article presents the results of the eco-balance analysis of the disused lead-acid batteries recycling process. Test-dedicated technology offers the possibility to recover other elements, for example, polypropylene of the battery case or to obtain crystalline sodium sulphate. The life cycle assessment was made using ReCiPe and IMPACT2002 + methods. The results are shown as environmental points [Pt]. The results are shown in the environmental categories, specific for each of the methods grouped in the impact categories. 1 Mg of the processed srap was a dopted as the functional unit. The results of the analyses indicate that recycling processes may provide the environmental impact of recycling technology less harmful. Repeated use of lead causes that its original sources are not explored. Similarly, the use of granule production-dedicated polypropylene extracted from battery casings that are used in the plastics industry, has environmental benefits. Due to the widespread use of lead-acid batteries, the attention should be paid to their proper utilization, especially in terms of heavy metals, especially lead. According to the calculations, the highest level of environmental benefits from the use of lead from secondary sources in the production of new products, was observed in the refining process.

High performance positive electrode for a lead-acid battery

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kao, Wen-Hong (Inventor); Bullock, Norma K. (Inventor); Petersen, Ralph A. (Inventor)

1994-01-01

An electrode suitable for use as a lead-acid battery plate is formed of a paste composition which enhances the performance of the plate. The paste composition includes a basic lead sulfate, a persulfate and water. The paste may also include lead oxide and fibers. An electrode according to the invention is characterized by good strength in combination with high power density, porosity and surface area.

Relativity and the lead-acid battery.

PubMed

Ahuja, Rajeev; Blomqvist, Andreas; Larsson, Peter; Pyykkö, Pekka; Zaleski-Ejgierd, Patryk

2011-01-07

The energies of the solid reactants in the lead-acid battery are calculated ab initio using two different basis sets at nonrelativistic, scalar-relativistic, and fully relativistic levels, and using several exchange-correlation potentials. The average calculated standard voltage is 2.13 V, compared with the experimental value of 2.11 V. All calculations agree in that 1.7-1.8 V of this standard voltage arise from relativistic effects, mainly from PbO2 but also from PbSO4.

A new lead-acid battery for high pulse power applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rowlette, J. J.; Attia, A. I.

1987-01-01

The development of new electronically conductive materials which can withstand the environment of the positive plates has made possible the construction of a high pulse power sealed bipolar lead-acid battery. The new battery is described and its advantages over other electrochemical systems are outlined. Performance projections show that the peak specific power of the battery can be as high as 90 kW/kg, and that a specific power of 5 kW/kg can be sustained over several thousand pulses.

Lead/acid battery development for heat engine/electric hybrid vehicles. Final report

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Giner, J.; Taylor, A.H.; Goebel, F.

A program was undertaken to develop a lead/acid battery system for use in a hybrid heat engine/electric vehicle. The basic requirements are that the battery be capable of supplying high-rate power pulses and of accepting high-rate charge pulses, both of short duration. The feasibility of developing a bipolar lead/acid battery system which conforms to these specifications was investigated by using a modular approach to system design. In the preferred design, a vertical array of lead strips placed on either side of each substrate are connected with adjacent strips on the opposite side only over the top of the substrate tomore » provide electrical conduction through the substrate. The following topics are discussed concerning this system: study of electrochemical problem areas relevant to design of a high-power-density battery; corrosion of substrate materials; development and mechanical testing of structures; life testing; design and preliminary cost analysis.« less

Research, development and demonstration of lead-acid batteries for electric vehicle propulsion

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bowman, D. E.

1983-08-01

Research programs on lead-acid batteries are reported that cover active materials utilization, active material integrity, and some technical support projects. Processing problems were encountered and corrected. Components and materials, a lead-plastic composite grid, cell designs, and deliverables are described. Cell testing is discussed, as well as battery subsystems, including fuel gage, thermal management, and electrolyte circulation.

Lead acetate trihydrate precursor route to synthesize novel ultrafine lead oxide from spent lead acid battery pastes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sun, Xiaojuan; Yang, Jiakuan; Zhang, Wei; Zhu, Xinfeng; Hu, Yuchen; Yang, Danni; Yuan, Xiqing; Yu, Wenhao; Dong, Jinxin; Wang, Haifeng; Li, Lei; Vasant Kumar, R.; Liang, Sha

2014-12-01

A novel green recycling process is investigated to prepare lead acetate trihydrate precursors and novel ultrafine lead oxide from spent lead acid battery pastes. The route contains the following four processes. (1) The spent lead pastes are desulphurized by (NH4)2CO3. (2) The desulphurized pastes are converted into lead acetate solution by leaching with acetic acid solution and H2O2; (3) The Pb(CH3COO)2·3H2O precursor is crystallized and purified from the lead acetate solution with the addition of glacial acetic acid; (4) The novel ultrafine lead oxide is prepared by the calcination of lead acetate trihydrate precursor in N2 or air at 320-400 °C. Both the lead acetate trihydrate and lead oxide products are characterized by TG-DTA, XRD, and SEM techniques. The calcination products are mainly α-PbO, β-PbO, and a small amount of metallic Pb. The particle size of the calcination products in air is significantly larger than that in N2. Cyclic voltammetry measurements of the novel ultrafine lead oxide products show good reversibility and cycle stability. The assembled batteries using the lead oxide products as cathode active materials show a good cyclic stability in 80 charge/discharge cycles with the depth of discharge (DOD) of 100%.

Ionic liquid as an electrolyte additive for high performance lead-acid batteries

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Deyab, M. A.

2018-06-01

The performance of lead-acid battery is improved in this work by inhibiting the corrosion of negative battery electrode (lead) and hydrogen gas evolution using ionic liquid (1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium diethyl phosphate). The results display that the addition of ionic liquid to battery electrolyte (5.0 M H2SO4 solution) suppresses the hydrogen gas evolution to very low rate 0.049 ml min-1 cm-2 at 80 ppm. Electrochemical studies show that the adsorption of ionic liquid molecules on the lead electrode surface leads to the increase in the charge transfer resistance and the decrease in the double layer capacitance. I also notice a noteworthy improvement of battery capacity from 45 mAh g-1 to 83 mAh g-1 in the presence of ionic liquid compound. Scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive X-ray analysis confirm the adsorption of ionic liquid molecules on the battery electrode surface.

An eco-balance of a recycling plant for spent lead-acid batteries.

PubMed

Salomone, Roberta; Mondello, Fabio; Lanuzza, Francesco; Micali, Giuseppe

2005-02-01

This study applies Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) methodology to present an eco-balance of a recycling plant that treats spent lead-acid batteries. The recycling plant uses pyrometallurgical treatment to obtain lead from spent batteries. The application of LCA methodology (ISO 14040 series) enabled us to assess the potential environmental impacts arising from the recycling plant's operations. Thus, net emissions of greenhouse gases as well as other major environmental consequences were examined and hot spots inside the recycling plant were identified. A sensitivity analysis was also performed on certain variables to evaluate their effect on the LCA study. The LCA of a recycling plant for spent lead-acid batteries presented shows that this methodology allows all of the major environmental consequences associated with lead recycling using the pyrometallurgical process to be examined. The study highlights areas in which environmental improvements are easily achievable by a business, providing a basis for suggestions to minimize the environmental impact of its production phases, improving process and company performance in environmental terms.

Experiences with lead/acid battery management in remote-area power-supply (RAPS) systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Phillips, S. J.; Pryor, T. L.; Dymond, M. S.; Remmer, D. P.

Battery management and general storage performance and cost remain major problems in remote-area power-supply (RAPS) systems utilizing renewable energy sources. A brief review of field experiences with lead/acid batteries is presented, together with results from battery tests carried out in the laboratory. It is recommended that further collaboration between battery manufacturers and system designers is established to develop improved storage systems for RAPS applications.

Phosphoric acid as an electrolyte additive for lead/acid batteries in electric-vehicle applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Meissner, E.

The influence of the addition of phosphoric acid to the electrolyte on the performance of gelled lead/acid electric-vehiicle batteries is investigated. This additive reduces the reversible capacity decay of the positive electrode significantly which is observed upon extended cycling when recharge of the battery is performed at low initial rate. This is important when low-rate on-board chargers are used. Pulsed discharge, typical for electric-vehicle application, induces reversible capacity decay more than constant-current discharge at a same depth-of-discharge, as well with as without the addition of phosphoric acid. By contrast, hindrance in presence of H 3PO 4 for both the recharge and the discharge reaction helps to homogenize the state of many individual cells during cycling in long battery strings. Reversible capacity loss, which occurs after extended cycling and when pulsed discharge is applied, can be recovered by a single discharge at very low rate with batteries with and without the addition of phosphoric acid. The discharge-rate dependency of the capacity is significantly reduced when phosphoric acid is added. The pulse discharge behaviour may be better, even if the nominal capacity is reduced. The experimental findings of the influence of phosphoric acid addition is discussed in terms of the aggregate-of-spheres model of reversible capacity decay.

Design of an efficient electrolyte circulation system for the lead-acid battery

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Thuerk, D.

The design and operation of an electrolyte circulation system are described. Application of lead acid batteries to electric vehicle and other repetitive deep cycle services produces a nondesirable state in the battery cells, electrolyte stratification. This stratification is the result of acid and water generation at the electrodes during cycling. With continued cycling, the extent of the stratification increases and prevents complete charging with low percentages of overcharge. Ultimately this results in extremely short life for the battery system. The stratification problem was overcome by substantially overcharging the battery. This abusive overcharge produces gassing rates sufficient to mix the electrolyte during the end portion of the charge. Overcharge, even though it is required to eliminate stratification, produces the undesirable results related to high voltage and gassing rates.

Research on SOC Calibration of Large Capacity Lead Acid Battery

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ye, W. Q.; Guo, Y. X.

2018-05-01

Large capacity lead-acid battery is used in track electric locomotive, and State of Charge (SOC) is an important quantitative parameter of locomotive power output and operating mileage of power emergency recovery vehicle. But State of Charge estimation has been a difficult part in the battery management system. In order to reduce the SOC estimation error better, this paper uses the linear relationship of Open Circuit Voltage (OCV) and State of Charge to fit the SOC-OCV curve equation by MATLAB. The method proposed in this paper is small, easy to implement and can be used in the battery non-working state SOC estimation correction, improve the estimation accuracy of SOC.

Gaston Planté and his invention of the lead-acid battery-The genesis of the first practical rechargeable battery

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kurzweil, P.

In 1860, the Frenchman Gaston Planté (1834-1889) invented the first practical version of a rechargeable battery based on lead-acid chemistry-the most successful secondary battery of all ages. This article outlines Planté's fundamental concepts that were decisive for later development of practical lead-acid batteries. The 'pile secondaire' was indeed ahead its time in that an appropriate appliance for charging the accumulator was not available. The industrial success came after the invention of the Gramme machine. In 1879, Planté obtained acceptance for his work by publishing a book entitled Recherches sur l' Electricité. He never protected his inventions by patents, and spent much of his fortune on assisting impoverished scientists.

A multifunctional energy-storage system with high-power lead-acid batteries

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wagner, R.; Schroeder, M.; Stephanblome, T.; Handschin, E.

A multifunctional energy storage system is presented which is used to improve the utilization of renewable energy supplies. This system includes three different functions: (i) uninterruptible power supply (UPS); (ii) improvement of power quality; (iii) peak-load shaving. The UPS application has a long tradition and is used whenever a reliable power supply is needed. Additionally, nowadays, there is a growing demand for high quality power arising from an increase of system perturbation of electric grids. Peak-load shaving means in this case the use of renewable energy stored in a battery for high peak-load periods. For such a multifunctional application large lead-acid batteries with high power and good charge acceptance, as well as good cycle life are needed. OCSM batteries as with positive tubular plates and negative copper grids have been used successfully for a multitude of utility applications. This paper gives two examples where multifunctional energy storage systems have started operation recently in Germany. One system was installed in combination with a 1 MW solar plant in Herne and another one was installed in combination with a 2 MW wind farm in Bocholt. At each place, a 1.2 MW h (1 h-rate) lead-acid battery has been installed. The batteries consist of OCSM cells with the standard design but modified according to the special demand of a multifunctional application.

Numerical algorithm for optimization of positive electrode in lead-acid batteries

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Murariu, Ancuta Teodora; Buimaga-Iarinca, Luiza; Morari, Cristian

2017-12-01

The positive electrode in lead-acid batteries is one of the most sensitive parts of the whole battery, since it is affected by various aggresive chemical processes during its life. Therefore, an optimal design of the positive electrode of the battery may have as efect a dramatic improvement of the properties of the battery - such as total capacity or endurance during its life. Our efforts dedicated to this goal cover a range of rather complex tasks, from the design based on numerical analysis to statistic analysis. We present the structure of the software implementation and the results obtained for three types of positive electrodes.

An overview of the development of lead/acid traction batteries for electric vehicles in India

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sivaramaiah, G.; Subramanian, V. R.

Electric vehicles (EVs) made an entry into the Indian scene quite recently in the area of passenger transportation, milk floats and other similar applications. The industrial EV market, with various models of fork-lift trucks and platform trucks already in wide use all over India, is a better understood application of EV batteries. The lead/acid traction batteries available in India are not of high-energy density. The best available indigenous lead/acid traction battery has an energy density ( C/5 rate) of 30 W h kg -1 as against 39 W h kg -1 available abroad. This paper reviews the developmental efforts relating to lead/acid traction batteries for electric vehicle applications in India, such as prototype road vehicles, commercial vehicles, rail cars, and locomotives. Due to the need for environmental protection and recognition of exhaustible, finite supplies of petroleum fuel, the Indian government is presently taking active interest in EV projects.

Lead Acid Battery Reporting Under EPCRA Sections 311 and 312 - REVISED

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

This memorandum provides guidance for the calculation of reporting thresholds under Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know for nonconsumer type lead acid batteries, such as those used in telephone switching stations or in forklifts.

Hybrid lead-acid battery with reticulated vitreous carbon as a carrier- and current-collector of negative plate

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Czerwiński, A.; Obrębowski, S.; Kotowski, J.; Rogulski, Z.; Skowroński, J.; Bajsert, M.; Przystałowski, M.; Buczkowska-Biniecka, M.; Jankowska, E.; Baraniak, M.; Rotnicki, J.; Kopczyk, M.

Bare reticulated vitreous carbon (RVC) plated electrochemically with thin layer of lead was investigated as a negative plate carrier- and current-collector material for lead-acid batteries. Hybrid flooded single cell lead-acid batteries containing one negative plate based on a new type (RVC or Pb/RVC) of carrier/current-collector and two positive plates based on Pb-Ca grid collectors were assembled and subjected to charge/discharge tests (at 20-h and 1-h discharge rates) and Peukert's dependences determination. The promising results show that application of RVC as carrier- and current-collector in negative plate will significantly increase the specific capacity of lead-acid battery.

Injury Surveillance and Safety Considerations for Large-Format Lead-Acid Batteries Used in Mining Applications.

PubMed

Reyes, Miguel Angel; Novak, Thomas

2016-03-01

Large lead-acid batteries are predominantly used throughout the mining industry to power haulage, utility, and personnel-carrier vehicles. Without proper operation and maintenance, the use of these batteries can introduce mechanical and electrical hazards, particularly in the confined, and potentially dangerous, environment of an underground coal mine. A review of the Mine Safety and Health Administration accident/illness/injury database reveals that a significant number of injuries occur during the maintenance and repair of lead-acid batteries. These injuries include burns from electrical arcing and acid exposure, as well as strained muscles and crushed hands. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health investigated the design and implementation of these batteries to identify safety interventions that can mitigate these inherent hazards. This paper promotes practical design modifications, such as reducing the size and weight of battery assembly lids in conjunction with lift assists, as well as using five-pole cable connectors to improve safety.

Injury Surveillance and Safety Considerations for Large-Format Lead-Acid Batteries Used in Mining Applications

PubMed Central

Reyes, Miguel Angel; Novak, Thomas

2016-01-01

Large lead-acid batteries are predominantly used throughout the mining industry to power haulage, utility, and personnel-carrier vehicles. Without proper operation and maintenance, the use of these batteries can introduce mechanical and electrical hazards, particularly in the confined, and potentially dangerous, environment of an underground coal mine. A review of the Mine Safety and Health Administration accident/illness/injury database reveals that a significant number of injuries occur during the maintenance and repair of lead-acid batteries. These injuries include burns from electrical arcing and acid exposure, as well as strained muscles and crushed hands. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health investigated the design and implementation of these batteries to identify safety interventions that can mitigate these inherent hazards. This paper promotes practical design modifications, such as reducing the size and weight of battery assembly lids in conjunction with lift assists, as well as using five-pole cable connectors to improve safety. PMID:27784953

An Exploratory Study Of Lead Recovery In Lead-Acid Battery Lifecycle In US Market: An Evidence-Based Approach

EPA Science Inventory

Background: This research examines lead recovery and recycling in lead-acid batteries (LAB) which account for 88% of US lead consumption. We explore strategies to maximize lead recovery and recycling in the LAB lifecycle. Currently, there is limited information on recycling ra...

Chopper-controlled discharge life cycling studies on lead-acid batteries

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kraml, J. J.; Ames, E. P.

1982-01-01

State-of-the-art 6 volt lead-acid golf car batteries were tested. A daily charge/discharge cycling to failure points under various chopper controlled pulsed dc and continuous current load conditions was undertaken. The cycle life and failure modes were investigated for depth of discharge, average current chopper frequency, and chopper duty cycle. It is shown that battery life is primarily and inversely related to depth of discharge and discharge current. Failure mode is characterized by a gradual capacity loss with consistent evidence of cell element aging.

Electroplated reticulated vitreous carbon current collectors for lead-acid batteries: opportunities and challenges

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gyenge, Elod; Jung, Joey; Mahato, Basanta

Reticulated, open-cell structures based on vitreous carbon substrates electroplated with a Pb-Sn (1 wt.%) alloy were investigated as current collectors for lead-acid batteries. Scanning and backscattered electron microscopy, cyclic voltammetry, anodic polarization and flooded 2 V single-cell battery testing was employed to characterize the performance of the proposed collectors. A battery equipped with pasted electroplated reticulated vitreous carbon (RVC) electrodes of 137 cm 2 geometric area, at the time of manuscript submission, completed 500 cycles and over 1500 h of continuous operation. The cycling involved discharges at 63 A kg PAM-1 corresponding to a nominal 0.75 h rate and a positive active mass (PAM) utilization efficiency of 21%. The charging protocol was composed of two voltage limited (i.e. 2.6 V/cell), constant current steps of 35 and 9.5 A kg PAM-1, respectively, with a total duration of about 2 h. The charge factor was 1.05-1.15. The observed cycling behavior in conjunction with the versatility of electrodeposition to produce application-dependent optimized lead alloy coating thickness and composition shows promise for the development of lead-acid batteries using electroplated reticulated vitreous carbon collectors.

Improvement of the performance of the positive electrode in the lead/acid battery by addition of boric acid

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Badawy, W. A.; El-Egamy, S. S.

A major disadvantage of the lead/acid battery is the decrease in voltage during operation which makes it unsuitable for systems sensitive to voltage fluctuations. Additives like BaSO 4 or SrSO 4, which are isomorphous to PbSO 4, have been used to overcome this problem. Phosphoric acid and the various phosphates have long been used to improve the performance of the positive electrode of the battery. A beneficial effect of phosphoric acid is to inhibit the rate of the self-discharge reaction of the positive electrode in the lead/acid battery. However, adverse effects of phosphoric acid include capacity loss in the initial cycles, excessive mossing, especially at high H 3PO 4 concentrations, and poor low-temperature performance (decrease in the rate of PbSO 4 oxidation). The effect of boric acid as an additive substituting for H 3PO 4 has been investigated using linear sweep voltammetry, constant potential and impedance measurements. The results show that boric acid markedly improves the kinetics of the {PbO 2}/{PbSO 4} couple and removes the problems encountered during the usage of H 3PO 4.

Health hazards of China's lead-acid battery industry: a review of its market drivers, production processes, and health impacts.

PubMed

van der Kuijp, Tsering Jan; Huang, Lei; Cherry, Christopher R

2013-08-03

Despite China's leaded gasoline phase out in 2000, the continued high rates of lead poisoning found in children's blood lead levels reflect the need for identifying and controlling other sources of lead pollution. From 2001 to 2007, 24% of children in China studied (N = 94,778) were lead poisoned with levels exceeding 100 μg/L. These levels stand well above the global average of 16%. These trends reveal that China still faces significant public health challenges, with millions of children currently at risk of lead poisoning. The unprecedented growth of China's lead-acid battery industry from the electric bike, automotive, and photovoltaic industries may explain these persistently high levels, as China remains the world's leading producer, refiner, and consumer of both lead and lead-acid batteries.This review assesses the role of China's rising lead-acid battery industry on lead pollution and exposure. It starts with a synthesis of biological mechanisms of lead exposure followed by an analysis of the key technologies driving the rapid growth of this industry. It then details the four main stages of lead battery production, explaining how each stage results in significant lead loss and pollution. A province-level accounting of each of these industrial operations is also included. Next, reviews of the literature describe how this industry may have contributed to mass lead poisonings throughout China. Finally, the paper closes with a discussion of new policies that address the lead-acid battery industry and identifies policy frameworks to mitigate exposure.This paper is the first to integrate the market factors, production processes, and health impacts of China's growing lead-acid battery industry to illustrate its vast public health consequences. The implications of this review are two-fold: it validates calls for a nationwide assessment of lead exposure pathways and levels in China as well as for a more comprehensive investigation into the health impacts of the lead-acid

Lead-acid battery

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Edwards, Dean B. (Inventor); Rippel, Wally E. (Inventor)

1986-01-01

A sealed, low maintenance battery (10, 100) is formed of a casing (14, 102) having a sealed lid (12, 104) enclosing cell compartments (22, 110) formed by walls (24, 132). The cells comprise a stack (26) of horizontally disposed negative active plates (30) and positive active plates (28) interspersed with porous, resilient separator sheets (30). Each plate has a set of evenly spaced tigs (40, 41) disposed on one side thereof; like polarity tigs being disposed on one side and opposite polarity tigs on the other. Columns of tigs are electrically and mechanically joined by vertical bus bars (46). The bus bars contain outwardly projecting arms (56) of opposite polarity which are electrically joined at each partition wall (24) to electrically connect the cells in series. The stack is compressed by biasing means such as resilient pad (58) attached to the lid or by joining the tigs (52) to the post (48) at a distance less than the thickness of the mat (124). The end bus bars (46) are joined to straps (60, 62) which connect to the terminals (16, 18). The negative plates contain more capacity than the positive plates and the starved electrolyte imbibed in the separator sheets permits pressurized operation during which oxygen diffuses through the separator sheet to the negative plate where it recombines. Excess pressure is relieved through the vent and pressure relief valve (20).

Results of chopper-controlled discharge life cycling studies on lead acid batteries

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ewashinka, J. G.; Sidik, S. M.

1982-01-01

A group of 108 state of the art nominally 6 volt lead acid batteries were tested in a program of one charge/discharge cycle per day for over two years or to ultimate battery failure. The primary objective was to determine battery cycle life as a function of depth of discharge (25 to 75 percent), chopper frequency (100 to 1000 Hz), duty cycle (25 to 87.5 percent), and average discharge current (20 to 260 A). The secondary objective was to determine the types of battery failure modes, if any, were due to the above parameters. The four parameters above were incorporated in a statistically designed test program.

Lead-acid batteries with polymer-structured electrodes for electric-vehicle applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Soria, M. L.; Fullea, J.; Sáez, F.; Trinidad, F.

Some years ago a consortium of enterprises and a university from different European countries and industrial sectors was established to work together in the development of lighter lead-acid batteries for electrical and conventional vehicles with new innovative materials and process techniques, with the final goal of increasing the energy density by means of a battery weight reduction. Its main idea was to substitute the heavy lead alloy grids (mechanical support of the active masses and collectors of the current produced during the charge and discharge reactions) by lightweight metallised polymeric network structures (PNS) with reduced mesh dimensions in comparison to conventional grids. The network was then coated with conductive materials and corrosion resistant layers to conduct the current flow. In this paper, the electrode characteristics and the design features of the batteries prepared in the project will be described and their electrical performance presented.

Lead-oxygen closed-loop battery system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Britz, W. J.; Boshers, W. A.; Kaufmann, J. J.

1975-01-01

Calculations show that battery can deliver up to 35 watt-hours per pound, conventional lead-acid batteries deliver 10 to 15 watt-hours per pound. Weight reduction is due to replacement of solid lead-peroxide electrodes with metal current-collector screen, catalyst, and Teflon membrane.

Preparing ultrafine PbS powders from the scrap lead-acid battery by sulfurization and inert gas condensation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xia, Huipeng; Zhan, Lu; Xie, Bing

2017-02-01

A novel method for preparing ultrafine PbS powders involving sulfurization combined with inert gas condensation is developed in this paper, which is applicable to recycle Pb from lead paste of spent lead-acid batteries. Initially, the effects of the evaporation and condensation temperature, the inert gas pressure, the condensation distance and substrate on the morphology of as-obtained PbS ultrafine particles are intensively investigated using sulfur powders and lead particles as reagents. Highly dispersed and homogeneous PbS nanoparticles can be prepared under the optimized conditions which are 1223 K heating temperature, 573 K condensation temperature, 100 Pa inert gas pressure and 60 cm condensation distance. Furthermore, this method is successfully applied to recycle Pb from the lead paste of spent lead acid battery to prepare PbS ultrafine powders. This work does not only provide the theoretical fundamental for PbS preparation, but also provides a novel and efficient method for recycling spent lead-acid battery with high added-value products.

Recovery of polypropylene from spent lead-acid batteries

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Stout, M.E.

1995-12-31

The recovery of the constituent components of spent lead-acid batteries was pioneered in the early 1970`s by M.A. Industries, Inc. M.A.`s main reason for research and development in this area was to recover the polypropylene casings for use as feed stock in their injection molding plants. At that time spent and reject casings were either disposed of or being fed with the lead bearing materials into the smelting process. M.A. has since developed, built and operated a plant for the conversion of scrap casing into reusable copolymer resins. The system is composed of washing, sizing, extrusion and pelletizing the polymermore » into a form which is ready to be injection molded into new products.« less

Development of a nickel/metal hydride battery (Ni/MH) system for EV application

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Ikoma, M.; Hamada, S.; Morishita, N.

1994-12-31

In order to satisfy basic battery characteristics for electric vehicles (EV) such as specific energy, specific power and cycle life that are required for driving on urban streets, the authors have selected the valve-regulated lead acid battery as a conventional battery and the nickel/metal-hydride battery as an advanced battery, and have been studying their development in order to put them into practical use by 1998. Regarding the nickel/metal-hydride battery, excellent nickel positive electrode with high temperature charge efficiency accomplished with additives such as Ca compounds, and an exceedingly good hydrogen absorbing alloy negative electrode with high capacity and long cyclemore » life, achieved by adjustment of alloy composition, surface treatment, and control of binder and conductive additive have been developed to overcome difficulties in the scale-up of battery size. Modular batteries using this technology possess specific energy twice (70 Wh/kg) that of the lead-acid battery, and have superior specific power (160 Wh/kg) and cycle life. 5 refs.« less

Integrated li-ion ultracapacitor with lead acid battery for vehicular start-stop

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Manla, Emad

Advancements in automobile manufacturing aim at improving the driving experience at every level possible. One improvement aspect is increasing gas efficiency via hybridization, which can be achieved by introducing a feature called start-stop. This feature automatically switches the internal combustion engine off when it idles and switches it back on when it is time to resume driving. This application has been proven to reduce the amount of gas consumption and emission of greenhouse effect gases in the atmosphere. However, the repeated cranking of the engine puts a large amount of stress on the lead acid battery required to perform the cranking, which effectively reduces its life span. This dissertation presents a hybrid energy storage system assembled from a lead acid battery and an ultracapacitor module connected in parallel. The Li-ion ultracapacitor was tested and modeled to predict its behavior when connected in a system requiring pulsed power such as the one proposed. Both test and simulation results show that the proposed hybrid design significantly reduces the cranking loading and stress on the battery. The ultracapacitor module can take the majority of the cranking current, effectively reducing the stress on the battery. The amount of cranking current provided by the ultracapacitor can be easily controlled via controlling the resistance of the cable connected directly between the ultracapacitor module and the car circuitry.

Battery energy-storage systems — an emerging market for lead/acid batteries

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cole, J. F.

Although the concept of using batteries for lead levelling and peak shaving has been known for decades, only recently have these systems become commercially viable. Changes in the structure of the electric power supply industry have required these companies to seek more cost-effective ways of meeting the needs of their customers. Through experience gained, primarily in the USA, batteries have been shown to provide multiple benefits to electric utilities. Also, lower maintenance batteries, more reliable electrical systems, and the availability of methods to predict costs and benefits have made battery energy-storage systems more attractive. Technology-transfer efforts in the USA have resulted in a willingness of electric utilities to install a number of these systems for a variety of tasks, including load levelling, peak shaving, frequency regulation and spinning reserve. Additional systems are being planned for several additional locations for similar applications, plus transmission and distribution deferral and enhanced power quality. In the absence of US champions such as the US Department of Energy and the Electric Power Research Institute, ILZRO is attempting to mount a technology-transfer programme to bring the benefits of battery energy-storage to European power suppliers. As a result of these efforts, a study group on battery energy-storage systems has been established with membership primarily in Germany and Austria. Also, a two-day workshop, prepared by the Electric Power Research Institute was held in Dublin. Participants included representatives of several European power suppliers. As a result, ESB National Grid of Ireland has embarked upon a detailed analysis of the costs and benefits of a battery energy-storage system in their network. Plans for the future include continuation of this technology-transfer effort, assistance in the Irish effort, and a possible approach to the European Commission for funding.

Health hazards of China’s lead-acid battery industry: a review of its market drivers, production processes, and health impacts

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

Despite China’s leaded gasoline phase out in 2000, the continued high rates of lead poisoning found in children’s blood lead levels reflect the need for identifying and controlling other sources of lead pollution. From 2001 to 2007, 24% of children in China studied (N = 94,778) were lead poisoned with levels exceeding 100 μg/L. These levels stand well above the global average of 16%. These trends reveal that China still faces significant public health challenges, with millions of children currently at risk of lead poisoning. The unprecedented growth of China’s lead-acid battery industry from the electric bike, automotive, and photovoltaic industries may explain these persistently high levels, as China remains the world’s leading producer, refiner, and consumer of both lead and lead-acid batteries. This review assesses the role of China’s rising lead-acid battery industry on lead pollution and exposure. It starts with a synthesis of biological mechanisms of lead exposure followed by an analysis of the key technologies driving the rapid growth of this industry. It then details the four main stages of lead battery production, explaining how each stage results in significant lead loss and pollution. A province-level accounting of each of these industrial operations is also included. Next, reviews of the literature describe how this industry may have contributed to mass lead poisonings throughout China. Finally, the paper closes with a discussion of new policies that address the lead-acid battery industry and identifies policy frameworks to mitigate exposure. This paper is the first to integrate the market factors, production processes, and health impacts of China’s growing lead-acid battery industry to illustrate its vast public health consequences. The implications of this review are two-fold: it validates calls for a nationwide assessment of lead exposure pathways and levels in China as well as for a more comprehensive investigation into the health

Technical and economic advantages of making lead-acid battery grids by continuous electroforming

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Warlimont, H.; Hofmann, T.

A new continuous electroforming process to manufacture lead grids for automotive and industrial lead-acid batteries has been developed. A galvanic cell comprising a drum cathode for electroforming and a subsequent series of galvanic cells which form a strip galvanizing line are operating in a single, fully continuous, automatic process. Virgin lead or lead scrap may be used as the anode material. The product is grid strip of any specified thickness and design which can be fed into existing strip-pasting equipment. The composition and microstructure of the grid material can be varied to provide increased corrosion resistance and increased paste adherence. A unique feature of the material is its inherent layered composite structure that allows optimization of the properties according to particular functional requirements. Thus, both the specific power and the specific energy of the battery can be increased by reducing weight. The material properties increase the calendar life of the battery by increasing the corrosion resistance of the grid, and increase the cycle-life of the battery by improved adherence of the positive active material. The technical and economic features and competitive advantages of this new technology and product are presented in quantitative terms.

Enhanced performance of starter lighting ignition type lead-acid batteries with carbon nanotubes as an additive to the active mass

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Marom, Rotem; Ziv, Baruch; Banerjee, Anjan; Cahana, Beni; Luski, Shalom; Aurbach, Doron

2015-11-01

Addition of various carbon materials into lead-acid battery electrodes was studied and examined in order to enhance the power density, improve cycle life and stability of both negative and positive electrodes in lead acid batteries. High electrical-conductivity, high-aspect ratio, good mechanical properties and chemical stability of multi-wall carbon nanotubes (MWCNT, unmodified and mofified with carboxylic groups) position them as viable additives to enhance the electrodes' electrical conductivity, to mitigate the well-known sulfation failure mechanism and improve the physical integration of the electrodes. In this study, we investigated the incorporation-effect of carbon nanotubes (CNT) to the positive and the negative active materials in lead-acid battery prototypes in a configuration of flooded cells, as well as gelled cells. The cells were tested at 25% and 30% depth-of-discharge (DOD). The positive effect of the carbon nanotubes (CNT) utilization as additives to both positive and negative electrodes of lead-acid batteries was clearly demonstrated and is explained herein based on microscopic studies.

Lead exposure in the lead-acid storage battery manufacturing and PVC compounding industries.

PubMed

Ho, S F; Sam, C T; Embi, G B

1998-09-01

This study was conducted as part of the Human Exposure Assessment Location (HEAL) Project which comes under the United Nations Environment Programme/World Health Organisation (UNEP/WHO) Global environmental Monitoring System (GEMS). The objective of the study was to evaluate workers' exposure to lead in industries with the highest exposure. All subjects were interviewed about their occupational and smoking histories, the use of personal protective equipment and personal hygiene. The contribution of a dietary source of lead intake from specified foods known to contain lead locally and personal air sampling for lead were assessed. A total of 61 workers from two PVC compounding and 50 workers from two lead acid battery manufacturing plants were studied together with 111 matched controls. In the PVC compounding plants the mean lead-in-air level was 0.0357 mg/m3, with the highest levels occurring during the pouring and mixing operations. This was lower than the mean lead-in-air level of 0.0886 mg/m3 in the lead battery manufacturing plants where the highest exposure was in the loading of lead ingots into milling machines. Workers in lead battery manufacturing had significantly higher mean blood lead than the PVC workers (means, 32.51 and 23.91 mcg/100 ml respectively), but there was poor correlation with lead-in-air levels. Among the lead workers, the Malays had significantly higher blood lead levels than the Chinese (mean blood levels were 33.03 and 25.35 mcg/100 ml respectively) although there was no significant difference between the two ethnic groups in the control group. There were no significant differences between the exposed and control group in terms of dietary intake of specified local foods known to contain lead. However, Malays consumed significantly more fish than the Chinese did. There were no ethnic differences in the hours of overtime work, number of years of exposure, usage of gloves and respirators and smoking habits. Among the Malays, 94.3% eat with

Screening and assessment of solidification/stabilization amendments suitable for soils of lead-acid battery contaminated site.

PubMed

Zhang, Zhuo; Guo, Guanlin; Teng, Yanguo; Wang, Jinsheng; Rhee, Jae Seong; Wang, Sen; Li, Fasheng

2015-05-15

Lead exposure via ingestion of soil and dust generally occurs at lead-acid battery manufacturing and recycling sites. Screening solidification/stabilization (S/S) amendments suitable for lead contaminated soil in an abandoned lead-acid battery factory site was conducted based on its chemical forms and environmental risks. Twelve amendments were used to immobilize the Pb in soil and assess the solidification/stabilization efficiency by toxicity leaching tests. The results indicated that three amendments, KH₂PO₄ (KP), KH₂PO₄:oyster shell power=1:1 (by mass ratio; SPP), and KH₂PO₄:sintered magnesia=1:1 (by mass ratio; KPM) had higher remediation efficiencies that led to a 92% reduction in leachable Pb with the addition of 5% amendments, while the acid soluble fraction of Pb (AS-Pb) decreased by 41-46% and the residual fraction (RS-Pb) increased by 16-25%. The S/S costs of the three selected amendments KP, SPP, and KPM could be controlled to $22.3 per ton of soil when the Pb concentration in soil ranged from 2000 to 3000 mg/kg. The results of this study demonstrated that KP, SPP, and KPM can effectively decrease bioavailability of Pb. These findings could provide basis for decision-making of S/S remediation of lead-acid battery contaminated sites. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Evaluation of preventive and control measures for lead exposure in a South African lead-acid battery recycling smelter.

PubMed

Dyosi, Sindiswa

2007-10-01

In South Africa, new lead regulations released in February 2002 served as motivation for a cross-sectional study investigating the effectiveness of preventive and control measures implemented in a lead smelter that recycles lead-acid batteries. Twenty-two workers were observed and interviewed. Structured questionnaires were used to gather workers' personal information, perception about their work environment, health risks, and work practices. Retrospective data from air monitoring and medical surveillance programs were obtained from the plant's records. The smelter implemented a number of control measures for lead exposure, including engineering controls, administrative controls, and, as a last resort, personal protective equipment. Engineering controls were rated the best control measure and included local exhaust ventilation systems and wet methods. Positive pressure systems were used in the offices and laboratory. The local exhaust ventilation system was rated the best engineering control measure. Although control measures were used, areas such as smelting and refinery had average lead in air levels above 0.15 mg/m(3), the occupational exposure limit for lead. This was a concern especially with regard to the smelting area because those workers had the second highest mean blood lead levels; workers in the battery breaking area had the highest. Regular use of personal protective equipment by some workers in the "lead exposure zones" was not observed. Although the mean blood lead levels had been below 40 micro g/dL for more than 90% of the workers since 2001, more than 70% of workers reported concerns about their health while working in the smelter. Even though control measures were implemented, they were not adequate because in some areas lead in air exceeded the occupational exposure limit. Therefore, improvement of existing measures and regular monitoring of personal protective equipment use were included in the recommendations given to the smelter.

VRLA automotive batteries for stop&go and dual battery systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

May, G. J.; Calasanzio, D.; Aliberti, R.

The electrical power requirements for vehicles are continuing to increase and evolve. A substantial amount of effort has been directed towards the development of 36/42 V systems as a route to higher power with reduced current levels but high implementation costs have resulted in the introduction of these systems becoming deferred. In the interim, however, alternator power outputs at 14 V are being increased substantially and at the same time the requirements for batteries are becoming more intensive. In particular, stop&go systems and wire-based vehicle systems are resulting in new demands. For stop&go, the engine is stopped each time the vehicle comes to rest and is restarted when the accelerator is pressed again. This results in an onerous duty cycle with many shallow discharge cycles. Flooded lead-acid batteries cannot meet this duty cycle and valve-regulated lead-acid (VRLA) batteries are needed to meet the demands that are applied. For wire-based systems, such as brake-by-wire or steer-by-wire, electrical power has become more critical and although the alternator and battery provide double redundancy, triple redundancy with a small reserve battery is specified. In this case, a small VRLA battery can be used and is optimised for standby service rather than for repeated discharges. The background to these applications is considered and test results under simulated operating conditions are discussed. Good performance can be obtained in batteries adapted for both applications. Battery management is also critical for both applications: in stop&go service, the state-of-charge (SOC) and state-of-health (SOH) need to be monitored to ensure that the vehicle can be restarted; for reserve or back-up batteries, the SOC and SOH are monitored to verify that the battery is always capable of carrying out the duty cycle if required. Practical methods of battery condition monitoring will be described.

Distribution and integrated assessment of lead in an abandoned lead-acid battery site in Southwest China before redevelopment.

PubMed

Wang, Mei; Zhang, Chao; Zhang, Zhuo; Li, Fasheng; Guo, Guanlin

2016-06-01

Lead-acid battery sites have contributed enormous amounts of lead to the environment, significantly affecting its global biogeochemical cycle and leaving the potential risks to human health. An abandoned lead-acid battery site prepared for redevelopment was selected in order to study the distribution of lead in soils, plants, rhizosphere soils and soil solutions. In total, 197 samples from 77 boreholes were collected and analyzed. Single extractions by acetic acid (HOAc) were conducted to assess the bioavailability and speciation of lead in soils for comparison with the parts of the plants that are aboveground. Health risks for future residential development were evaluated by the integrated exposure uptake biokinetic (IEUBK) model. The results indicated that lead concentrations in 83% of the soil samples exceeded the Chinese Environmental Quality Standard for soil (350 mg/kg for Pb) and mainly occurred at depths between 0 and 1.5 m while accumulating at the surface of demolished construction waste and miscellaneous fill. Lead concentrations in soil solutions and HOAc extraction leachates were linked closely to the contents of aboveground Broussonetia papyrifera and Artemisia annua, two main types of local plants that were found at the site. The probability density of lead in blood (PbB) in excess of 10 µg/dL could overtake the 99% mark in the residential scenario. The findings provided a relatively integrated method to illustrate the onsite investigations and assessment for similar sites before remediation and future development from more comprehensive aspects. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Effects of exposure to lead among lead-acid battery factory workers in Sudan

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Mohamed, A.A.E.K.; Hamed, A.A.S.; Elhaimi, Y.A.A.

Health effects of occupational exposure to lead were investigated among 92 exposed workers in lead-acid battery factory and 40 nonexposed workers serving as a control group from an oil mill in Khartoum North industrial area. The two groups were closely similar in age, stature, body weight, and socioeconomic conditions. A highly significant increase (P<.01) was recorded in blood lead, urinary coproporphyrin, and basophilic stippled red blood cells of the exposed group in comparison to the control group. Central nervous system symptoms (insomnia, fatigue, weakness, and drowsiness) were reported by 50% and other symptoms such as abdominal colic and constipation weremore » reported by 41% of the exposed group. Blue line on the gum was detected only on 2% of the exposed group. Strong associations between exposure to lead and the prevalence of central nervous system symptoms, abdominal colic, and constipation were recorded. Exposure to exceedingly high levels of lead in the working environment causes adverse health effects.« less

Temporal and spatial characteristics of lead emissions from the lead-acid battery manufacturing industry in China.

PubMed

Liu, Wei; Tian, Jinping; Chen, Lujun; Guo, Yang

2017-01-01

An inventory of lead emissions was established for the lead-acid battery (LAB) manufacturing industry in China from 2000 to 2014. The lead emissions from the LAB manufacturing industry increased from 133 t in 2000 to a peak at 281 t in 2010 with the rapid development of LAB industry. Since 2011, a mandatory national clean action on LAB industry and a series of retrofitting measures have been implemented in China. As a result, more than 80% of small and low-efficient LAB manufacturers were closed, and technical-environmental performance of the industry has been improved significantly. Thus the lead emissions from the industry declined to 113 t in 2014. Geographically, lead emissions were attributed to several provinces with intensive LAB manufacturers, including Zhejiang, Guangdong, Jiangsu, Shandong, and Hebei Province. Spatial transfer of the LAB manufacturing industry from developed areas to developing areas in China was manifest due to strict environmental regulation, posing potential environmental risks to the areas undertaking the industry transfer. In light of the effectiveness of the national clean action, the LAB manufacturing industry will reduce lead emissions further by implementing the entry criteria strictly, adopting policy of total lead emissions control, and establishing a long-term regulatory mechanism for LAB manufacturers. The local authorities in some developing areas should improve abilities of environmental supervision and environmental risk prevention to deal with the spillover of lead emissions. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

The key to success: Gelled-electrolyte and optimized separators for stationary lead-acid batteries

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Toniazzo, Valérie

The lead acid technology is nowadays considered one of the best suited for stationary applications. Both gel and AGM batteries are complementary technologies and can provide reliability and efficiency due to the constant optimization of the battery design and components. However, gelled-electrolyte batteries remain the preferred technology due to a better manufacturing background and show better performance mainly at low and moderate discharge rates. Especially, using the gel technology allows to get rid of the numerous problems encountered in most AGM batteries: drainage, stratification, short circuits due to dendrites, and mostly premature capacity loss due to the release of internal cell compression. These limitations are the result of the evident lack of an optimal separation system. In gel batteries, on the contrary, highly efficient polymeric separators are nowadays available. Especially, microporous separators based on PVC and silica have shown the best efficiency for nearly 30 years all over the world, and especially in Europe, where the gel technology was born. The improved performance of these separators is explained by the unique extrusion process, which leads to excellent wettability, and optimized physical properties. Because they are the key for the battery success, continuous research and development on separators have led to improved properties, which render the separator even better adapted to the more recent gel technology: the pore size distribution has been optimized to allow good oxygen transfer while avoiding dendrite growth, the pore volume has been increased, the electrical resistance and acid displacement reduced to such an extent that the electrical output of batteries has been raised both in terms of higher capacity and longer cycle life.

Development of new positive-grid alloy and its application to long-life batteries for automotive industry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Furukawa, Jun; Nehyo, Y.; Shiga, S.

Positive-grid corrosion and its resulting creep or growth is one of the major causes of the failure of automotive lead-acid batteries. The importance of grid corrosion and growth is increasing given the tendency for rising temperatures in the engine compartments of modern vehicles. In order to cope with this situation, a new lead alloy has been developed for positive-grids by utilizing an optimized combination of lead-calcium-tin and barium. In addition to enhanced mechanical strength at high temperature, the corrosion-resistance of the grid is improved by as much as two-fold so that the high temperature durability of batteries using such grids has been demonstrated in both hot SAE J240 tests and in field trials in Japan and Thailand. A further advantage of the alloy is its recycleability compared with alloys containing silver. The new alloy gives superior performance in both 12-V flooded and 36-V valve-regulated lead-acid (VRLA) batteries.

The Comparative Performance of Batteries: The Lead-Acid and the Aluminum-Air Cells.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

LeRoux, Xavier; And Others

1996-01-01

Describes a teaching program that shows how electrochemical principles can be conveyed by means of hands-on experiences of student-centered teaching experiments. Employs the readily available lead-acid cell and the simple aluminum-air cell. Discusses the batteries, equilibrium cell potential, performance comparison, current, electrode separation,…

Analysis of lead-acid battery accelerated testing data

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Clifford, J. E.; Thomas, R. E.

1983-06-01

Battelle conducted an independent review and analysis of the accelerated test procedures and test data obtained by Exide in the 3 year Phase 1 program to develop advanced lead acid batteries for utility load leveling. Of special importance is the extensive data obtained in deep discharge cycling tests on 60 cells at elevated temperatures over a 2-1/2 year period. The principal uncertainty in estimating cell life relates to projecting cycle life data at elevated temperature to the lower operating temperatures. The accelerated positive grid corrosion test involving continuous overcharge at 500C provided some indication of the degree of grid corrosion that might be tolerable before failure. The accelerated positive material shedding test was not examined in any detail. Recommendations are made for additional studies.

Blood Lead Levels and Health Problems of Lead Acid Battery Workers in Bangladesh

PubMed Central

Ahmad, Sk. Akhtar; Khan, Manzurul Haque; Khandker, Salamat; Sarwar, A. F. M.; Yasmin, Nahid; Faruquee, M. H.; Yasmin, Rabeya

2014-01-01

Introduction. Use of lead acid battery (LAB) in Bangladesh has risen with sharp rise of motor vehicles. As result, manufacture of LAB is increasing. Most of the lead used by these industries comes from recycling of LAB. Workers in LAB industry are at risk of exposure lead and thus development of lead toxicity. Objective. The objective of this study was to measure the blood lead concentration and to assess the magnitude of health problems attributable to lead toxicity among the LAB manufacturing workers. Methods. A cross-sectional study was conducted among the workers of LAB manufacturing industries located in Dhaka city. Result. Mean blood lead level (BLL) among the workers was found to be high. They were found to be suffering from a number of illnesses attributable to lead toxicity. The common illnesses were frequent headache, numbness of the limbs, colic pain, nausea, tremor, and lead line on the gum. High BLL was also found to be related to hypertension and anemia of the workers. Conclusion. High BLL and illnesses attributable to lead toxicity were prevalent amongst workers of the LAB manufacturing industries, and this requires attention especially in terms of occupational hygiene and safety. PMID:24707223

Blood lead levels and health problems of lead acid battery workers in Bangladesh.

PubMed

Ahmad, Sk Akhtar; Khan, Manzurul Haque; Khandker, Salamat; Sarwar, A F M; Yasmin, Nahid; Faruquee, M H; Yasmin, Rabeya

2014-01-01

Use of lead acid battery (LAB) in Bangladesh has risen with sharp rise of motor vehicles. As result, manufacture of LAB is increasing. Most of the lead used by these industries comes from recycling of LAB. Workers in LAB industry are at risk of exposure lead and thus development of lead toxicity. The objective of this study was to measure the blood lead concentration and to assess the magnitude of health problems attributable to lead toxicity among the LAB manufacturing workers. A cross-sectional study was conducted among the workers of LAB manufacturing industries located in Dhaka city. Mean blood lead level (BLL) among the workers was found to be high. They were found to be suffering from a number of illnesses attributable to lead toxicity. The common illnesses were frequent headache, numbness of the limbs, colic pain, nausea, tremor, and lead line on the gum. High BLL was also found to be related to hypertension and anemia of the workers. High BLL and illnesses attributable to lead toxicity were prevalent amongst workers of the LAB manufacturing industries, and this requires attention especially in terms of occupational hygiene and safety.

Energy-saving management modelling and optimization for lead-acid battery formation process

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, T.; Chen, Z.; Xu, J. Y.; Wang, F. Y.; Liu, H. M.

2017-11-01

In this context, a typical lead-acid battery producing process is introduced. Based on the formation process, an efficiency management method is proposed. An optimization model with the objective to minimize the formation electricity cost in a single period is established. This optimization model considers several related constraints, together with two influencing factors including the transformation efficiency of IGBT charge-and-discharge machine and the time-of-use price. An example simulation is shown using PSO algorithm to solve this mathematic model, and the proposed optimization strategy is proved to be effective and learnable for energy-saving and efficiency optimization in battery producing industries.

Al/Pb lightweight grids prepared by molten salt electroless plating for application in lead-acid batteries

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hong, Bo; Jiang, Liangxing; Hao, Ketao; Liu, Fangyang; Yu, Xiaoying; Xue, Haitao; Li, Jie; Liu, Yexiang

2014-06-01

In this paper, a lightweight Pb plated Al (Al/Pb) grid was prepared by molten salt electroless plating. The SEM and bonding strength test show that the lead coating is deposited with a smooth surface and firm combination. CV test shows that the electrochemical properties of Al/Pb electrodes are stable. 2.0 V single-cell flooded lead-acid batteries with Al/Pb grids as negative collectors are assembled and the performances including 20 h capacity, rate capacity, cycle life, internal resistance are investigated. The results show that the cycle life of Al/Pb-grid cells is about 475 cycles and can meet the requirement of lead-acid batteries. Al/Pb grids are conducive to the refinement of PbSO4 grain, and thereby reduce the internal resistance of battery and advance the utilization of active mass. Moreover, weight of Al/Pb grid is only 55.4% of the conventional-grid. In this way, mass specific capacity of Al/Pb-grid negatives is 17.8% higher and the utilization of active mass is 6.5% higher than conventional-grid negatives.

Air and blood lead levels in lead acid battery recycling and manufacturing plants in Kenya.

PubMed

Were, Faridah H; Kamau, Geoffrey N; Shiundu, Paul M; Wafula, Godfrey A; Moturi, Charles M

2012-01-01

The concentration of airborne and blood lead (Pb) was assessed in a Pb acid battery recycling plant and in a Pb acid battery manufacturing plant in Kenya. In the recycling plant, full-shift area samples taken across 5 days in several production sections showed a mean value ± standard deviation (SD) of 427 ± 124 μg/m(3), while area samples in the office area had a mean ± SD of 59.2 ± 22.7 μg/m(3). In the battery manufacturing plant, full-shift area samples taken across 5 days in several production areas showed a mean value ± SD of 349 ± 107 μg/m(3), while area samples in the office area had a mean ± SD of 55.2 ± 33.2 μg/m(3). All these mean values exceed the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration's permissible exposure limit of 50 μg/m(3) as an 8-hr time-weighted average. In the battery recycling plant, production workers had a mean blood Pb level ± SD of 62.2 ± 12.7 μg/dL, and office workers had a mean blood Pb level ± SD of 43.4 ± 6.6 μg/dL. In the battery manufacturing plant, production workers had a mean blood Pb level ± SD of 59.5 ± 10.1 μg/dL, and office workers had a mean blood Pb level ± SD of 41.6 ± 7.4 μg/dL. All the measured blood Pb levels exceeded 30 μg/dL, which is the maximum blood Pb level recommended by the ACGIH(®). Observations made in these facilities revealed numerous sources of Pb exposure due to inadequacies in engineering controls, work practices, respirator use, and personal hygiene.

COBAT: collection and recycling spent lead/acid batteries in Italy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sancilio, Cosmo

The European Economic Community (EEC) introduced a very clear Directive (157/91) aimed at solving the problem of collecting and recycling scrap accumulators and lead/acid batteries. This waste has a potentially harmful effect on the environment if the recycling process is not carried out correctly at all stages. COBAT is a Consortium created in 1990 in order to meet the requirements of the Italian law 475/88 which preceded the above-mentioned EEC Directive. This Consortium has a broad basis comprising all sectors involved in the battery cycle life (battery producers, battery fitters, collectors and recyclers). So far the organization, using the following approach has had very positive results since its inception three years ago. The public sector, representatives from the Environmental Ministry and the Ministry of Industry are responsible for supplying guidelines and the overall supervision, whereas the private sector is in charge of the organization and the enforcement of the law. This paper explains in detail the structure and tasks of COBAT, and will proceed on to explain how COBAT is organized and how the collection network and recycling plants work. The economical aspects will be examined in detail, and emphasis will be put on how little the public will have to pay in order to safeguard the environment, and the harmful effect of a competitively run regime to the ecosystem.

Technical Status and Progress of Lead Recycling of Battery

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Wei-feng; Jiang, Li-hua; Zhan, Jing; Zhang, Chuan-fu

The characteristics of various components in waste lead acid battery are analyzed in this paper. The present status and the study progress situation in industry production and research field of recycling of waste lead acid battery and lead paste used broken-separation technology are introduced. The comparison of advantages and disadvantages in different industry processes is carried. The advantages of redox bath smelting of lead concentrate and lead paste are analyzed. The method of redox bath smelting will be a low-carbon, environmentally friendly and efficient processes of secondary lead production and can be intensive to desulfurize for high temperature pool.

SUNRAYCE 1993: Working safely with lead-acid batteries and photovoltaic power systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dephillips, M. P.; Moskowitz, P. D.; Fthenakis, V. M.

1992-11-01

The US Department of Energy (DOE) is sponsoring SUNRAYCE 93 to advance tile technology and use of photovoltaics and electric vehicles. Participants will use cars powered by photovoltaic modules and lead-acid storage batteries. This brochure, prepared for students and faculty participating in this race, outlines the health hazards presented by these electrical systems and gives guidance on strategies for their safe usage. At the outset, it should be noted that working with photovoltaic systems and batteries requires electric vehicle drivers and technicians to have 'hands-on' contact with the car on a daily basis. It is important that no one work near a photovoltaic energy system or battery, either in a vehicle or on the bench, unless they familiarize themselves with the components in use and know and observe safe work practices including the safety precautions described in the manuals provided by the various equipment vendors and this document.

Standby battery requirements for telecommunications power

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

May, G. J.

The requirements for standby power for telecommunications are changing as the network moves from conventional systems to Internet Protocol (IP) telephony. These new systems require higher power levels closer to the user but the level of availability and reliability cannot be compromised if the network is to provide service in the event of a failure of the public utility. Many parts of these new networks are ac rather than dc powered with UPS systems for back-up power. These generally have lower levels of reliability than dc systems and the network needs to be designed such that overall reliability is not reduced through appropriate levels of redundancy. Mobile networks have different power requirements. Where there is a high density of nodes, continuity of service can be reasonably assured with short autonomy times. Furthermore, there is generally no requirement that these networks are the provider of last resort and therefore, specifications for continuity of power are directed towards revenue protection and overall reliability targets. As a result of these changes, battery requirements for reserve power are evolving. Shorter autonomy times are specified for parts of the network although a large part will continue to need support for hours rather minutes. Operational temperatures are increasing and battery solutions that provide longer life in extreme conditions are becoming important. Different battery technologies will be discussed in the context of these requirements. Conventional large flooded lead/acid cells both with pasted and tubular plates are used in larger central office applications but the majority of requirements are met with valve-regulated lead/acid (VRLA) batteries. The different types of VRLA battery will be described and their suitability for various applications outlined. New developments in battery construction and battery materials have improved both performance and reliability in recent years. Alternative technologies are also being proposed

Recovery of lead from lead paste in spent lead acid battery by hydrometallurgical desulfurization and vacuum thermal reduction.

PubMed

Ma, Yunjian; Qiu, Keqiang

2015-06-01

Lead sulfate, lead oxides and lead metal are the main component of lead paste in spent lead acid battery. When lead sulfate was desulfurized and transformed into lead carbonate by sodium carbonate, lead metal and lead oxides remained unchanged. Lead carbonate is easily decomposed to lead oxide and carbon dioxide under high temperature. Namely, vacuum thermal process is the reduction reaction of lead oxides. A compatible environmental process consisted of hydrometallurgical desulfurization and vacuum thermal reduction to recycle lead was investigated in this research. Lead paste was firstly desulfurized with sodium carbonate, by which, the content of sulfur declined from 7.87% to 0.26%. Then, the desulfurized lead paste was reduced by charcoal under vacuum. Under the optimized reaction conditions, i.e., vacuum thermal reduction at temperature 850°C under 20 Pa for 45 min, a 22.11×10(-2) g cm(-2) min(-1) reduction rate, and a 98.13% direct recovery ratio of fine lead (99.77%) had been achieved, respectively. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Online impedance spectroscopy of lead acid batteries for storage management of a standalone power plant

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Depernet, Daniel; Ba, Oumar; Berthon, Alain

2012-12-01

This paper presents a contribution to implementation of hybrid power plants in rural areas without electricity in Senegal. Wind and photovoltaic generators coupling is used to benefit from renewable energy resources in this country. Lead acid storage batteries are coupled with the generators to ensure smoothness of the electricity generation. This work is focused in particular on the development of a low cost online impedance spectroscopy method to address the problem of limited lifetime of batteries and the difficulties of their maintenance in isolated areas. Control of static converter associated with the battery is adapted to integrate the functionality of characterization of batteries by impedance spectroscopy. An experimental platform developed in the laboratory has validated the method for online measurement of battery impedance spectrum and to initiate a phase of data monitoring.

Lead acid battery recycling for the twenty-first century.

PubMed

Ballantyne, Andrew D; Hallett, Jason P; Riley, D Jason; Shah, Nilay; Payne, David J

2018-05-01

There is a growing need to develop novel processes to recover lead from end-of-life lead-acid batteries, due to increasing energy costs of pyrometallurgical lead recovery, the resulting CO 2 emissions and the catastrophic health implications of lead exposure from lead-to-air emissions. To address these issues, we are developing an iono-metallurgical process, aiming to displace the pyrometallurgical process that has dominated lead production for millennia. The proposed process involves the dissolution of Pb salts into the deep eutectic solvent (DES) Ethaline 200, a liquid formed when a 1 : 2 molar ratio of choline chloride and ethylene glycol are mixed together. Once dissolved, the Pb can be recovered through electrodeposition and the liquid can then be recycled for further Pb recycling. Firstly, DESs are being used to dissolve the lead compounds (PbCO 3 , PbO, PbO 2 and PbSO 4 ) involved and their solubilities measured by inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES). The resulting Pb 2+ species are then reduced and electrodeposited as elemental lead at the cathode of an electrochemical cell; cyclic voltammetry and chronoamperometry are being used to determine the electrodeposition behaviour and mechanism. The electrodeposited films were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). We discuss the implications and opportunities of such processes.

Lead acid battery recycling for the twenty-first century

PubMed Central

Ballantyne, Andrew D.; Hallett, Jason P.; Riley, D. Jason; Shah, Nilay

2018-01-01

There is a growing need to develop novel processes to recover lead from end-of-life lead-acid batteries, due to increasing energy costs of pyrometallurgical lead recovery, the resulting CO2 emissions and the catastrophic health implications of lead exposure from lead-to-air emissions. To address these issues, we are developing an iono-metallurgical process, aiming to displace the pyrometallurgical process that has dominated lead production for millennia. The proposed process involves the dissolution of Pb salts into the deep eutectic solvent (DES) Ethaline 200, a liquid formed when a 1 : 2 molar ratio of choline chloride and ethylene glycol are mixed together. Once dissolved, the Pb can be recovered through electrodeposition and the liquid can then be recycled for further Pb recycling. Firstly, DESs are being used to dissolve the lead compounds (PbCO3, PbO, PbO2 and PbSO4) involved and their solubilities measured by inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES). The resulting Pb2+ species are then reduced and electrodeposited as elemental lead at the cathode of an electrochemical cell; cyclic voltammetry and chronoamperometry are being used to determine the electrodeposition behaviour and mechanism. The electrodeposited films were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). We discuss the implications and opportunities of such processes. PMID:29892351

Uncovering the Evolution of Lead In-Use Stocks in Lead-Acid Batteries and the Impact on Future Lead Metabolism in China.

PubMed

Liu, Wei; Chen, Lujun; Tian, Jinping

2016-05-17

This study aims to illustrate the evolution of lead in-use stocks, particularly in lead-acid batteries (LABs), and their impact on future lead metabolism in China. First, we used a bottom-up methodology to study the evolution of lead in-use stocks in China from 2000 to 2014. It was found that the lead in-use stocks increased from 0.91 to 7.75 Mt. The principal driving force of such change is the rapid development of LABs-driven electric vehicles. Then, we proposed three scenarios, low, baseline, and high in-use stocks, to project the lead demand and supply toward 2030. The results show that the LAB demand will decrease as a result of competition and replacement by lithium ion batteries. The lead demand in China will come to a peak around 2018-2020 under the three scenarios, then reduce to 3.7, 4.6, and 5.3 Mt/yr in 2030. Meanwhile, primary lead outputs will follow the increase of zinc production in China. Secondary lead recovered from spent LABs will also increase gradually. The overall unused lead stocks in 2030 will be 49.6, 44.8, and 41.2 Mt under the three scenarios, some 3.5-5.7 times as big as the lead in-use stocks. Thus, a large amount of lead will have to be safely stockpiled or exported in China.

A review of fractional-order techniques applied to lithium-ion batteries, lead-acid batteries, and supercapacitors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zou, Changfu; Zhang, Lei; Hu, Xiaosong; Wang, Zhenpo; Wik, Torsten; Pecht, Michael

2018-06-01

Electrochemical energy storage systems play an important role in diverse applications, such as electrified transportation and integration of renewable energy with the electrical grid. To facilitate model-based management for extracting full system potentials, proper mathematical models are imperative. Due to extra degrees of freedom brought by differentiation derivatives, fractional-order models may be able to better describe the dynamic behaviors of electrochemical systems. This paper provides a critical overview of fractional-order techniques for managing lithium-ion batteries, lead-acid batteries, and supercapacitors. Starting with the basic concepts and technical tools from fractional-order calculus, the modeling principles for these energy systems are presented by identifying disperse dynamic processes and using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. Available battery/supercapacitor models are comprehensively reviewed, and the advantages of fractional types are discussed. Two case studies demonstrate the accuracy and computational efficiency of fractional-order models. These models offer 15-30% higher accuracy than their integer-order analogues, but have reasonable complexity. Consequently, fractional-order models can be good candidates for the development of advanced battery/supercapacitor management systems. Finally, the main technical challenges facing electrochemical energy storage system modeling, state estimation, and control in the fractional-order domain, as well as future research directions, are highlighted.

Field Trial on a Rack-mounted DC Power Supply System with 80-Ah Lithium-ion Batteries

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Matsushima, Toshio

Using an industrial lithium-ion battery that has higher energy density than conventional valve-regulated lead-acid batteries, a rack-mounted DC-power-supply system was assembled and tested at a base transceiver station (BTS) offering actual services. A nominal output voltage and maximum output current of the system is 53.5V and 20A, respectively. An 80-Ah lithium-ion battery composed of 13 cells connected in series was applied in the system and maintained in a floating charge method. The DC-power-supply system was installed in a 19-inch power rack in the telecommunications equipment box at BTS. The characteristics of the 80Ah lithium-ion battery, specifications of the DC-power-supply system and field-test results were shown in this paper.

Using Diagnostic Assessment to Help Teachers Understand the Chemistry of the Lead-Acid Battery

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cheung, Derek

2011-01-01

Nineteen pre-service and in-service teachers taking a chemistry teaching methods course at a university in Hong Kong were asked to take a diagnostic assessment. It consisted of seven multiple-choice questions about the chemistry of the lead-acid battery. Analysis of the teachers' responses to the questions indicated that they had difficulty in…

The Use of Pristine and Intercalated Graphite Fiber Composites as Buss Bars in Lead-Acid Batteries

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Opaluch, Amanda M.

2004-01-01

This study was conducted as a part of the Firefly Energy Space Act Agreement project to investigate the possible use of composite materials in lead acid batteries. Specifically, it examined the use of intercalated graphite composites as buss bars. Currently, buss bars of these batteries are made of lead, a material that is problematic for several reasons. Over time, the lead is subject to both corrosion at the positive plate and sulfation at the negative plate, resulting in decreased battery life. In addition, the weight and size of the lead buss bars make for a heavy and cumbersome battery that is undesirable. Functionality and practicality of lead buss bars is adequate at best; consequently, investigation of more efficient composite materials would be advantageous. Practically speaking, graphite composites have a low density that is nearly one fourth that of its lead counterpart. A battery made of less dense materials would be more attractive to the consumer and the producer because it would be light and convenient. More importantly, low weight would be especially beneficial because it would result in greater overall power density of the battery. In addition to power density, use of graphite composite materials can also increase the life of the battery. From a functional standpoint, corrosion and sulfation at the positive and negative plates are major obstacles when considering how to extend battery life. Neither of these reactions are a factor when graphite composites replace lead parts because graphite is chemically non-reactive with the electrolyte within the battery. Without the problem of corrosion or sulfation, battery life expectancy can be almost doubled. The replacement of lead battery parts with composite materials is also more environmentally favorable because of easy disposal of organic materials. For this study, both pristine and bromine intercalated single-ply graphite fiber composites were created. The composites were fabricated in such a way as to

The lead-acid battery industry in China: outlook for production and recycling.

PubMed

Tian, Xi; Wu, Yufeng; Gong, Yu; Zuo, Tieyong

2015-11-01

In 2013, more than four million (metric) tons (MT) of refined lead went into batteries in China, and 1.5 MT of scrap lead recycled from these batteries was reused in other secondary materials. The use of start-light-ignition (SLI), traction and energy storage batteries has spread in China in recent decades, with their proportions being 25.6%, 47.2% and 27.2%, respectively, in 2012. The total production of these batteries increased from 296,000 kVAh in 2001 to 205.23 MkVAh in 2013, with manufacturing located mainly in the middle and eastern provinces of the country. In this paper, we find that the market share of SLI batteries will decrease slightly, the share of traction batteries will continuously increase with the emergence of clean energy vehicles, and that of energy storage batteries will increase with the development of the wind energy and photovoltaic industries. Accounting for lead consumption in the main application industries, and the total social possession, it is calculated that used lead batteries could generate 2.4 MT of scrap lead in 2014, which is much higher than the 1.5 MT that was recycled in 2013. Thus, the current recycling rate is too low. It is suggested that while building large-scale recycling plants, small-scale plants should be banned or merged. © The Author(s) 2015.

Studies on battery repair and recycling workers occupationally exposed to lead in Karachi.

PubMed

Haider, Muhammad Jamal; Qureshi, Naeemullah

2013-01-01

OBJECTIVE. The present study was carried out to investigate the effects of occupational lead exposure on the hematological and biochemical parameters in occupationally exposed and non exposed inhabitants of Karachi. MATERIAL AND METHODS. In 100 lead exposed subjects recruited from automobile workshops, lead battery repair and recycling units located in Karachi and in 100 control subjects the general health status, hematological parameters and exposure markers for lead were measured. RESULTS. Results indicated that the mean values of blood lead level and delta-aminolevulinic acid were significantly higher (P<0.05) while the activity of delta-aminolevulinic acid dehydratase were significantly decreased (P<0.05) among battery repair and recycling workers as compared to controls. The abnormalities in the blood lead level, delta-aminolevulinic acid and delta-aminolevulinic acid dehydratase were more frequent in lead exposed battery repair workers when compared with control subjects. The blood lead levels and deltaaminolevulinic acid were positively correlated while delta-aminolevulinic acid dehydratase was found to be negatively correlated with age, years of exposure and years of employment. Blood lead level was positively correlated with hemoglobin and RBC count while delta-aminolevulinic acid dehydratase was negatively correlated with hemoglobin concentration. The work related symptoms, droopiness, nasal symptoms and muscular pain were more frequent among battery repair workers as compared to control group. The findings of present study confirmed that occupational exposure to lead is associated with deviation in important hematological parameters and biological markers of exposure to lead among lead exposed workers, and also confirms the impact of lead exposure in the development of adverse effects among lead exposed workers. The study provides the data for risk assessment in lead battery repair workers of Karachi and suggests the need for preventive measures for

Lead oxide as used in lead acid storage batteries, part two

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Orsino, J.A.

1986-06-01

Without oxide controls, the battery manufacturing business can become one of the most confusing and frustrating experiences known. Inexplicable things happen during mixing, pasting and assembly, and testing, in the laboratory or in the field becomes an unhappy event. Almost any oxide of sufficient purity can be processed to make a good battery, but the characteristics must be known to be able to process it right, and once the process has been established, the oxide must be uniformly made to make the resulting batteries uniformly good. Fortunately, the tests required to assure uniformity are few, and simple to perform. Assumingmore » pure pig lead from primary sources or from carefully refined secondary sources, three tests can tell the whole story. These tests are described.« less

SUNRAYCE 1995: Working safely with lead-acid batteries and photovoltaic power systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dephillips, M. P.; Moskowitz, P. D.; Fthenakis, V. M.

1994-05-01

This document is a power system and battery safety handbook for participants in the SUNRAYCE 95 solar powered electric vehicle program. The topics of the handbook include batteries, photovoltaic modules, safety equipment needed for working with sulfuric acid electrolyte and batteries, battery transport, accident response, battery recharging and ventilation, electrical risks on-board vehicle, external electrical risks, electrical risk management strategies, and general maintenance including troubleshooting, hydrometer check and voltmeter check.

Determination of the lead-acid battery's dynamic response using Butler-Volmer equation for advanced battery management systems in automotive applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Piłatowicz, Grzegorz; Budde-Meiwes, Heide; Kowal, Julia; Sarfert, Christel; Schoch, Eberhard; Königsmann, Martin; Sauer, Dirk Uwe

2016-11-01

Micro-hybrid vehicles (μH) are currently starting to dominate the European market and seize constantly growing share of other leading markets in the world. On the one hand, the additional functionality of μH reduces the CO2 emissions and improves the fuel economy, but, on the other hand, the additional stress imposed on the lead-acid battery reduces significantly its expected service life in comparison to conventional vehicles. Because of that μH require highly accurate battery state detection solutions. They are necessary to ensure the vehicle reliability requirements, prolong service life and reduce warranty costs. This paper presents an electrical model based on Butler-Volmer equation. The main novelty of the presented approach is its ability to predict accurately dynamic response of a battery considering a wide range of discharge current rates, state-of-charges and temperatures. Presented approach is fully implementable and adaptable in state-of-the-art low-cost platforms. Additionally, shown results indicate that it is applicable as a supporting tool for state-of-charge and state-of-health estimation and scalable for the different battery technologies and sizes. Validation using both static pulses and dynamic driving profile resulted in average absolute error of 124 mV regarding cranking current rate of 800 A respectively.

The Asian battery market—a decade of change

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Eckfeld, S.; Manders, J. E.; Stevenson, M. W.

The Asian battery industry will undergo significant change over the next decade as it adapts to the enormous economic and technological pressures of our rapidly changing world. Europe and North America in recent years have seen significant rationalisation in battery manufacturing capacity and ownership for a variety of reasons. Into the future, Asia will be no exception, but the rate and magnitude of change may conceivably be greater than that already experienced elsewhere. Rationalisation in battery manufacturing plants will occur as a result of the establishment of super plants to manufacture batteries in order to improve the economies of scale and to facilitate the heavy investment in new capital and equipment that will be required to supply the newer technology battery types. The impact of 42 V automotive systems and valve-regulated lead-acid (VRLA) batteries will be influential on this scenario. It is expected that China, Japan, South Korea, and Thailand will feature heavily in the future Asian battery scene at the expense of some established countries and producers. The current state of the battery industry in Asia, factors driving change in Asia, and the likely implications for those companies that are currently manufacturing batteries in Asia or considering a future role in Asia within the coming decade are examined in this paper.

Comparative study for "36 V" vehicle applications: advantages of lead-acid batteries

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lailler, Patrick; Sarrau, Jean-François; Sarrazin, Christian

From thermal engine equipped vehicles to completely electric ones, evolution of light weight vehicles in the future will take several steps in so far as there is no adequate battery or fuel cell presently available to power these vehicles for "on the road" driving. On the other hand, for city driving, vehicles can be improved a lot in terms of fuel efficiency as well as air pollution, if partly or totally electric propulsion can be developed, manufactured and marketed for appropriate applications. The 36-42 V battery is part of this orientation towards improving the efficiency of thermal vehicles in city driving, while keeping adequate autonomy on the roads. Actually, in city traffic, thermal engines are idle most of the time and stop periods represent a large part of the time spent "driving", using up fuel and polluting air for no use at all. The idea of stopping the engine during these periods, if appropriately managed, might potentially lead to a large improvement in fuel economy as well as air pollution reduction. The association of a higher voltage battery to an alternator-starter device in thermal vehicles, seems to be an interesting way towards that end. In this paper, we are presenting our results of a study we have just completed in relationship with RENAULT & VALEO, supported by the French Ministry of Industry, concerning a comparative evaluation of different automobile energy storage systems, and the definition of specifications as the final step of this study. The main conclusion is that lead-acid will still remain dominant in this role, since its operational cost versus efficiency is by far the lowest of every battery presently considered, more particularly in the less expensive car segments.

Testing of the Eagle-Picher nickel-iron, the Globe ISOA lead-acid, and the Westinghouse nickel-iron battery subsystems in an electric-vehicle environment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hewitt, R.; Bryant, J.

1982-01-01

Three full size developmental batteries were tested with electric vehicles; two nickel-iron batteries and a lead-acid battery. Constant speed and driving schedule tests were done on a chassis dynamometer. Several aspects of battery performance were evaluated for capacity, recharge efficiency, voltage response, and self discharge. Each of these three batteries exhibited some strengths and some weaknesses.

Recovery of lead from smelting fly ash of waste lead-acid battery by leaching and electrowinning.

PubMed

Chen, Chuh-Shun; Shih, Yu-Jen; Huang, Yao-Hui

2016-06-01

Fly ash that was enriched with lead (Pb), formed as an intermediate in waste lead-acid battery (WLAB) smelting, was recycled by the hydro-electrometallurgy. Characterization of fly ash thereof indicated that the Pb was in the forms of PbSO4 (anglesite) and Pb2OSO4 (lanarkite). Nitric acid and sodium hydroxide were firstly used to study the leaching of the fly ash sample, which was affected by leachant dosage and solid-to-liquid ratio (S/L). At an S/L of 60gL(-1), the leachability of Pb was 43% and 67% in 2M acidic and basic solutions, respectively, based on an average 70wt% of Pb in the original fly ash. Anglesite was completely soluble in NaOH and lanarkite was mildly soluble in HNO3. Pb was recovered from the pregnant leach solution within an electrolytic cell constructed with graphite or RuO2/IrO2-coated titanium (Ti-DSA) anodes and a stainless steel cathode. Properties of anodes deposited with lead dioxides were analyzed by cyclic voltammetry. The optimized parameters of electrowinning were 2M NaOH leachant, a current density of 0.75Adm(-2) and an electrolytic process duration of 120min, which yielded a Pb removal of higher than 99% and a specific energy consumption of 0.57Whg(-1). This process constitutes an eco-friendly and economic alternative to the presently utilized secondary pyrometallurgy for treating lead-containing fly ash. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Research, development, and demonstration of lead-acid batteries for electric-vehicle propulsion. Annual report, 1980

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Not Available

1981-03-01

The first development effort in improving lead-acid batteries fore electric vehicles was the improvement of electric vehicle batteries using flat pasted positive plates and the second was for a tubular long life positive plate. The investigation of 32 component variables based on a flat pasted positive plate configuration is described. The experiment tested 96 - six volt batteries for characterization at 0, 25, and 40/sup 0/C and for cycle life capability at the 3 hour discharge rate with a one cycle, to 80% DOD, per day regime. Four positive paste formulations were selected. Two commercially available microporous separators were usedmore » in conjunction with a layer of 0.076 mm thick glass mat. Two concentrations of battery grade sulfuric acid were included in the test to determine if an increase in concentration would improve the battery capacity sufficient to offset the added weight of the more concentrated solution. Two construction variations, 23 plate elements with outside negative plates and 23 plate elements with outside positive plates, were included. The second development effort was an experiment designed to study the relationship of 32 component variables based on a tubular positive plate configuration. 96-six volt batteries were tested at various discharge rates at 0, 25, and 40/sup 0/C along with cycle life testing at 80% DOD of the 3 hour rate. 75 batteries remain on cycle life testing with 17 batteries having in excess of 365 life cycles. Preliminary conclusions indicate: the tubular positive plate is far more capable of withstanding deep cycles than is the flat pasted plate; as presently designed 40 Whr/kg can not be achieved, since 37.7 Whr/kg was the best tubular data obtained; electrolyte circulation is impaired due to the tight element fit in the container; and a redesign is required to reduce the battery weight which will improve the Whr/kg value. This redesign is complete and new molds have been ordered.« less

A Study on Electric Power Smoothing System for Lead-Acid Battery of Stand-Alone Natural Energy Power System Using EDLC

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jia, Yan; Shibata, Ryosuke; Yamamura, Naoki; Ishida, Muneaki

To resolve energy shortage and global warming problem, renewable natural resource and its power system has been gradually generalizing. However, the power fluctuation suppressing in short period and the balance control of consumption and supply in long period are two of main problems that need to be resolved urgently in natural energy power system. In Stand-alone Natural Energy Power System (SNEPS) with power energy storage devices, power fluctuation in short period is one of the main reasons that recharge cycle times increase and lead-acid battery early failure. Hence, to prolong the service life of lead-acid battery and improve power quality through suppressing the power fluctuation, we proposed a method of electric power smoothing for lead-acid battery of SNEPS using bi-directional Buck/Boost converter and Electric Double Layer Capacitor (EDLC) in this paper. According to the test data of existing SNEPS, a power fluctuation condition is selected and as an example to analyze the validity of the proposed method. The analysis of frequency characteristics indicates the power fluctuation is suppressed a desired range in the target frequency region. The experimental results of confirmed the feasibility of the proposed system and the results well satisfy the requirement of system design.

Mass Lead Intoxication from Informal Used Lead-Acid Battery Recycling in Dakar, Senegal

PubMed Central

Haefliger, Pascal; Mathieu-Nolf, Monique; Lociciro, Stephanie; Ndiaye, Cheikh; Coly, Malang; Diouf, Amadou; Faye, Absa Lam; Sow, Aminata; Tempowski, Joanna; Pronczuk, Jenny; Junior, Antonio Pedro Filipe; Bertollini, Roberto; Neira, Maria

2009-01-01

Background and objectives Between November 2007 and March 2008, 18 children died from a rapidly progressive central nervous system disease of unexplained origin in a community involved in the recycling of used lead-acid batteries (ULAB) in the suburbs of Dakar, Senegal. We investigated the cause of these deaths. Methods Because autopsies were not possible, the investigation centered on clinical and laboratory assessments performed on 32 siblings of deceased children and 23 mothers and on 18 children and 8 adults living in the same area, complemented by environmental health investigations. Results All 81 individuals investigated were poisoned with lead, some of them severely. The blood lead level of the 50 children tested ranged from 39.8 to 613.9 μg/dL with a mean of 129.5 μg/dL. Seventeen children showed severe neurologic features of toxicity. Homes and soil in surrounding areas were heavily contaminated with lead (indoors, up to 14,000 mg/kg; outdoors, up to 302,000 mg/kg) as a result of informal ULAB recycling. Conclusions Our investigations revealed a mass lead intoxication that occurred through inhalation and ingestion of soil and dust heavily contaminated with lead as a result of informal and unsafe ULAB recycling. Circumstantial evidence suggested that most or all of the 18 deaths were due to encephalopathy resulting from severe lead intoxication. Findings also suggest that most habitants of the contaminated area, estimated at 950, are also likely to be poisoned. This highlights the severe health risks posed by informal ULAB recycling, in particular in developing countries, and emphasizes the need to strengthen national and international efforts to address this global public health problem. PMID:20019903

Mass lead intoxication from informal used lead-acid battery recycling in dakar, senegal.

PubMed

Haefliger, Pascal; Mathieu-Nolf, Monique; Lociciro, Stephanie; Ndiaye, Cheikh; Coly, Malang; Diouf, Amadou; Faye, Absa Lam; Sow, Aminata; Tempowski, Joanna; Pronczuk, Jenny; Filipe Junior, Antonio Pedro; Bertollini, Roberto; Neira, Maria

2009-10-01

Between November 2007 and March 2008, 18 children died from a rapidly progressive central nervous system disease of unexplained origin in a community involved in the recycling of used lead-acid batteries (ULAB) in the suburbs of Dakar, Senegal. We investigated the cause of these deaths. Because autopsies were not possible, the investigation centered on clinical and laboratory assessments performed on 32 siblings of deceased children and 23 mothers and on 18 children and 8 adults living in the same area, complemented by environmental health investigations. All 81 individuals investigated were poisoned with lead, some of them severely. The blood lead level of the 50 children tested ranged from 39.8 to 613.9 microg/dL with a mean of 129.5 microg/dL. Seventeen children showed severe neurologic features of toxicity. Homes and soil in surrounding areas were heavily contaminated with lead (indoors, up to 14,000 mg/kg; outdoors, up to 302,000 mg/kg) as a result of informal ULAB recycling. Our investigations revealed a mass lead intoxication that occurred through inhalation and ingestion of soil and dust heavily contaminated with lead as a result of informal and unsafe ULAB recycling. Circumstantial evidence suggested that most or all of the 18 deaths were due to encephalopathy resulting from severe lead intoxication. Findings also suggest that most habitants of the contaminated area, estimated at 950, are also likely to be poisoned. This highlights the severe health risks posed by informal ULAB recycling, in particular in developing countries, and emphasizes the need to strengthen national and international efforts to address this global public health problem.

Study on residual discharge time of lead-acid battery based on fitting method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Bing; Yu, Wangwang; Jin, Yueqiang; Wang, Shuying

2017-05-01

This paper use the method of fitting to discuss the data of C problem of mathematical modeling in 2016, the residual discharge time model of lead-acid battery with 20A,30A,…,100A constant current discharge is obtained, and the discharge time model of discharge under arbitrary constant current is presented. The mean relative error of the model is calculated to be about 3%, which shows that the model has high accuracy. This model can provide a basis for optimizing the adaptation of power system to the electrical motor vehicle.

Corrosion management of PbCaSn alloys in lead-acid batteries: Effect of composition, metallographic state and voltage conditions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rocca, E.; Bourguignon, G.; Steinmetz, J.

Since several years, lead calcium-based alloys have supplanted lead antimony alloys as structural materials for positive grids of lead-acid batteries in many applications, especially for VRLA batteries. Nevertheless, the positive grid corrosion probably remains one of the causes of rapid and premature failure of lead-acid batteries. The objective of the present study is to present a comprehensive study of the PbCaSn alloy corrosion in function of their composition, metallographic state and voltage conditions (discharge, overcharge, floating and cycling conditions). For that, four alloys PbCaSn x wt.% (x = 0, 0.6, 1.2, 2) were synthesized in two extreme metallurgical conditions and tested by four electrochemical lab-tests. Weight loss measurements and analyses by SEM, EPMA and XRD allowed to monitor the oxidation tests and to characterize the corrosion layers after the oxidation tests. The results show that the tin level in PbCaSn alloys should be adapted on the calcium concentration and the rate of overageing process, to maintain the beneficial effect of tin in service during the battery lifetime. According to our results, a Sn/Ca ratio of 2.5 gives good corrosion resistance in all potential conditions. Nevertheless, when tin level is too high, the corrosion layers can peel off from the metal, which involves a lack of cohesion between the collector and the paste, in cycling conditions. The anodic potential undergone by the metal is a second main factor determining the corrosion, especially the floating conditions and the frequency of deep discharge and overcharge. Thus the adjustment of the charge controller parameters of a battery system is a necessity to increase the lifetime of the grids and maintain a good rechargeability.

Removing antimony from waste lead storage batteries alloy by vacuum displacement reaction technology.

PubMed

Liu, Tiantian; Qiu, Keqiang

2018-04-05

With the wide application of lead acid battery, spent lead acid battery has become a serious problem to environmental protection and human health. Though spent battery can be a contaminant if not handled properly, it is also an important resource to obtain refined lead. Nowadays, the Sb-content in lead storage batteries is about 0.5-3 wt%, which is higher than the Sb-content in the crude lead. However, there are few reports about the process of removing antimony from high-antimony lead bullion. In this study, vacuum displacement reaction technology, a new process for removing antimony from high-antimony lead melts, was investigated. During this process, lead oxide was added to the system and antimony from lead melts was converted into antimony trioxide, which easily was evaporated under vacuum so that antimony was removed from lead melts. The experimental results demonstrated that Sb-content in lead melts decreased from 2.5% to 23 ppm under following conditions: mass ratio of PbO/lead bullion of 0.33, residual gas pressure of 30 Pa, melt temperature of 840 °C, reaction time of 60 min. The distillate gotten can be used as by-product to produce antimony white. Moreover, this study is of importance to recycling of waste lead storage batteries alloy. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Temperature controlled formation of lead/acid batteries

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bungardt, M.

At present, standard formation programs have to accommodate the worst case. This is important, especially in respect of variations in climatic conditions. The standard must be set so that during the hottest weather periods the maximum electrolyte temperature is not exceeded. As this value is defined not only by the desired properties and the recipe of the active mass, but also by type and size of the separators and by the dimensions of the plates, general rules cannot be formulated. It is considered to be advantageous to introduce limiting data for the maximum temperature into a general formation program. The latter is defined so that under normal to good ambient conditions the shortest formation time is achieved. If required, the temperature control will reduce the currents employed in the different steps, according to need, and will extend the formation time accordingly. With computer-controlled formation, these parameters can be readily adjusted to suit each type of battery and can also be reset according to modifications in the preceding processing steps. Such a procedure ensures that: (i) the formation time is minimum under the given ambient conditions; (ii) in the event of malpractice ( e.g. actual program not fitting to size) the batteries will not be destroyed; (iii) the energy consumption is minimized (note, high electrolyte temperature leads to excess gassing). These features are incorporated in the BA/FOS-500 battery formation system developed by Digatron. The operational characteristics of this system are listed in Table 1.

An exploratory study of lead recovery in lead-acid battery lifecycle in US market: an evidence-based approach.

PubMed

Genaidy, A M; Sequeira, R; Tolaymat, T; Kohler, J; Rinder, M

2008-12-15

This research examines lead recovery and recycling in lead-acid batteries (LAB) which account for 88% of US lead consumption. We explore strategies to maximize lead recovery and recycling in the LAB lifecycle. Currently, there is limited information on recycling rates for LAB in the published literature and is derived from a single source. Therefore, its recycling efforts in the US has been unclear so as to determine the maximum opportunities for metal recovery and recycling in the face of significant demands for LAB particularly in the auto industry. The research utilizes an evidence-based approach to: (1) determine recycling rates for lead recovery in the LAB product lifecycle for the US market; and (2) quantify and identify opportunities where lead recovery and recycling can be improved. A comprehensive electronic search of the published literature was conducted to gather information on different LAB recycling models and actual data used to calculate recycling rates based on product lifecycle for the US market to identify strategies for increasing lead recovery and recycling. The electronic search yielded five models for calculating LAB recycling rates. The description of evidence was documented for each model. Furthermore, an integrated model was developed to identify and quantify the maximum opportunities for lead recovery and recycling. Results showed that recycling rates declined during the period spanning from 1999 to 2006. Opportunities were identified for recovery and recycling of lead in the LAB product lifecycle. One can deduce the following from the analyses undertaken in this report: (1) lead recovery and recycling has been stable between 1999 and 2006; (2) lead consumption has increased at an annual rate of 2.25%, thus, the values derived in this study for opportunities dealing with lead recovery and recycling underestimate the amount of lead in scrap and waste generated; and (3) the opportunities for maximizing lead recovery and recycling are

Battery selection for space experiments

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Francisco, David R.

1992-01-01

This paper will delineate the criteria required for the selection of batteries as a power source for space experiments. Four basic types of batteries will be explored, lead acid, silver zinc, alkaline manganese and nickel cadmium. A detailed description of the lead acid and silver zinc cells while a brief exploration of the alkaline manganese and nickel cadmium will be given. The factors involved in battery selection such as packaging, energy density, discharge voltage regulation, and cost will be thoroughly examined. The pros and cons of each battery type will be explored. Actual laboratory test data acquired for the lead acid and silver zinc cell will be discussed. This data will include discharging under various temperature conditions, after three months of storage and with different types of loads. A description of the required maintenance for each type of battery will be investigated. The lifetime and number of charge/discharge cycles will be discussed.

Study on the Regulating Performance of Sliding Regulation-Valve

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hu, Wei; Peng, Xiaoyong; Zhang, Yuan; Zheng, Yulan; Zhu, Fangyao

2018-01-01

Using a proven reliable method of CFD to study the regulating performance of a sliding regulation valve with a conical spool and rugby body. The numerical simulation results indicate that no matter where the spool is located, the flow field always has a vortex at the center of the valve body; When the spool is at the origin, the vortex and resistance coefficient of the valve are the minimum; When the spool moves from the origin to the right (the opening of the valve becomes smaller) to reach a certain position later, vortex currents also begin to appear around the tube wall behind the orifice. In addition, the vortex increases as the throttling port decreases whereas the resistance coefficient of the valve ascends slowly with the increase of the deviation of the spool and the rise in series; This type of regulating valve has S type (slow at both ends, sensitive at the center) flow characteristics at the stroke, and is not affected by the size of Re.

Resolution in QCM sensors for the viscosity and density of liquids: application to lead acid batteries.

PubMed

Cao-Paz, Ana María; Rodríguez-Pardo, Loreto; Fariña, José; Marcos-Acevedo, Jorge

2012-01-01

In battery applications, particularly in automobiles, submarines and remote communications, the state of charge (SoC) is needed in order to manage batteries efficiently. The most widely used physical parameter for this is electrolyte density. However, there is greater dependency between electrolyte viscosity and SoC than that seen for density and SoC. This paper presents a Quartz Crystal Microbalance (QCM) sensor for electrolyte density-viscosity product measurements in lead acid batteries. The sensor is calibrated in H(2)SO(4) solutions in the battery electrolyte range to obtain sensitivity, noise and resolution. Also, real-time tests of charge and discharge are conducted placing the quartz crystal inside the battery. At the same time, the present theoretical "resolution limit" to measure the square root of the density-viscosity product [Formula: see text] of a liquid medium or best resolution achievable with a QCM oscillator is determined. Findings show that the resolution limit only depends on the characteristics of the liquid to be studied and not on frequency. The QCM resolution limit for [Formula: see text] measurements worsens when the density-viscosity product of the liquid is increased, but it cannot be improved by elevating the work frequency.

Resolution in QCM Sensors for the Viscosity and Density of Liquids: Application to Lead Acid Batteries

PubMed Central

Cao-Paz, Ana María; Rodríguez-Pardo, Loreto; Fariña, José; Marcos-Acevedo, Jorge

2012-01-01

In battery applications, particularly in automobiles, submarines and remote communications, the state of charge (SoC) is needed in order to manage batteries efficiently. The most widely used physical parameter for this is electrolyte density. However, there is greater dependency between electrolyte viscosity and SoC than that seen for density and SoC. This paper presents a Quartz Crystal Microbalance (QCM) sensor for electrolyte density-viscosity product measurements in lead acid batteries. The sensor is calibrated in H2SO4 solutions in the battery electrolyte range to obtain sensitivity, noise and resolution. Also, real-time tests of charge and discharge are conducted placing the quartz crystal inside the battery. At the same time, the present theoretical “resolution limit” to measure the square root of the density-viscosity product (ρη) of a liquid medium or best resolution achievable with a QCM oscillator is determined. Findings show that the resolution limit only depends on the characteristics of the liquid to be studied and not on frequency. The QCM resolution limit for ρη measurements worsens when the density-viscosity product of the liquid is increased, but it cannot be improved by elevating the work frequency. PMID:23112618

The Global Burden of Lead Toxicity Attributable to Informal Used Lead-Acid Battery Sites.

PubMed

Ericson, Bret; Landrigan, Phillip; Taylor, Mark Patrick; Frostad, Joseph; Caravanos, Jack; Keith, John; Fuller, Richard

Prior calculations of the burden of disease from environmental lead exposure in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) have not included estimates of the burden from lead-contaminated sites because of a lack of exposure data, resulting in an underestimation of a serious public health problem. We used publicly available statistics and detailed site assessment data to model the number of informal used lead-acid battery (ULAB) recyclers and the resulting exposures in 90 LMICs. We estimated blood lead levels (BLLs) using the US Environment Protection Agency's Integrated Exposure Uptake Biokinetic Model for Lead in Children and Adult Lead Model. Finally, we used data and algorithms generated by the World Health Organization to calculate the number of attributable disability adjusted life years (DALYs). We estimated that there are 10,599 to 29,241 informal ULAB processing sites where human health is at risk in the 90 countries we reviewed. We further estimated that 6 to 16.8 million people are exposed at these sites and calculate a geometric mean BLL for exposed children (0-4 years of age) of 31.15 μg/dL and a geometric mean BLL for adults of 21.2 μg/dL. We calculated that these exposures resulted in 127,248 to 1,612,476 DALYs in 2013. Informal ULAB processing is currently causing widespread lead poisoning in LMICs. There is an urgent need to identify and mitigate exposures at existing sites and to develop appropriate policy responses to minimize the creation of new sites. Copyright © 2016 Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Woven-grid sealed quasi-bipolar lead-acid battery construction and fabricating method

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rippel, Wally E. (Inventor)

1989-01-01

A quasi-bipolar lead-acid battery construction includes a plurality of bipolar cells disposed in side-by-side relation to form a stack, and a pair of monoplanar plates at opposite ends of the stack, the cell stack and monopolar plates being contained within a housing of the battery. Each bipolar cell is loaded with an electrolyte and composed of a bipolar electrode plate and a pair of separator plates disposed on opposite sides of the electrode plate and peripherally sealed thereto. Each bipolar electrode plate is composed of a partition sheet and two bipolar electrode elements folded into a hairpin configuration and applied over opposite edges of the partition sheet so as to cover the opposite surfaces of the opposite halves thereof. Each bipolar electrode element is comprised of a woven grid with a hot-melt strip applied to a central longitudinal region of the grid along which the grid is folded into the hairpin configuration, and layers of negative and positive active material pastes applied to opposite halves of the grid on opposite sides of the central hot-melt strip. The grid is made up of strands of conductive and non-conductive yarns composing the respective transverse and longitudinal weaves of the grid. The conductive yarn has a multi-stranded glass core surrounded and covered by a lead sheath, whereas the non-conductive yarn has a multi-stranded glass core surrounded and covered by a thermally activated sizing.

Battery selection for Space Shuttle experiments

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Francisco, David R.

1993-01-01

This paper will delineate the criteria required for the selection of batteries as a power source for space experiments. Four basic types of batteries will be explored, lead acid, silver zinc, alkaline manganese, and nickel cadmium. A detailed description of the lead acid and silver zinc cells and a brief exploration of the alkaline manganese and nickel cadmium will be given. The factors involved in battery selection such as packaging, energy density, discharge voltage regulation, and cost will be thoroughly examined. The pros and cons of each battery type will be explored. Actual laboratory test data acquired for the lead acid and silver zinc cell will be discussed. This data will include discharging under various temperature conditions, after three months of storage, and with different types of loads. The lifetime and number of charge/discharge cycles will also be discussed. A description of the required maintenance for each type of battery will be investigated.

CONTROL TECHNOLOGIES FOR REMEDIATION OF CONTAMINATED SOIL AND WASTE DEPOSITS AT SUPERFUND LEAD BATTERY SITES

EPA Science Inventory

This paper primarily addresses remediation of contaminated soils and waste deposits at defunct lead-acid battery recycling sites (LBRS) via immobilization and separation processes. efunct LBRS is a facility at which battery breaking, secondary lead smelting, or both operations we...

BCI`s RBSM test methods: Eight years in the making

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

NONE

1993-03-01

RBSM stands for recombinant battery separator mat. This is the acronym chosen after a lot of debate during eight years of committee work to develop test methods to characterize separators which are used in valve regulated lead acid batteries. This paper discusses the test methods.

Occupational health programme for lead workers in battery plants

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, Byung-Kook

The realization of problems resulting from the exposure to undue high lead levels of workers in lead-using industries, particularly in storage battery plants, has given rise to a new occupational health service, the so-called type specific (harmful agent specific) group occupational health. In 1988, the Korean Ministry of Labor designated the Institute of Industrial Medicine, Soonchunhyang University, as an authorized organization to take care of lead workers in lead industries. The following occupational health services are provided by the Institute: (i) physical health examination; (ii) biological monitoring with zinc protoporphyrin, urine δ-aminolevulinic acid and blood lead; (iii) respiratory protection with maintenance-free respirators; (iv) measurement of the environmental condition of workplaces; (v) health education. A three-year occupational health programme for lead workers has contributed to improvements in the working conditions of lead industries, particularly in large-scale battery plants, and has decreased the unnecessary high lead burden of workers through on-going medical surveillance with biological monitoring and health education schemes. The strong commitment of both employers and the government to improve the working conditions of lead industries, together with the full cooperation of lead workers, has served to reduce the high lead burdens of lead workers. This decreases the number of lead-poisoning cases and provides more comfortable workplaces, particularly in battery plants.

The lead/acid battery — a key technology for global energy management

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rand, D. A. J.

As the nations of the world continue to develop, their industrialization and growing populations will require increasing amounts of energy. Yet, global energy consumption, even at present levels, is already giving rise to concerns over both the security of future supplies and the attendant problems of environmental degradation. Thus, a major objective for the energy industry — in all its sectors — is to develop procedures so that the burgeoning demand for energy can be tolerated without exhaustion of the planet's resources, and without further deterioration of the global ecosystem. A step in the right direction is to place lead/acid batteries — serviceable, efficient and clean technology — at the cutting edge of energy strategies, regardless of the relatively low price of such traditional fuels as coal, mineral oil and natural gas.

CONTROL TECHNOLOGIES FOR REMEDIATION OF CONTAMINATED SOIL AND WASTE DEPOSITS AT SUPERFUND LEAD BATTERY RECYCLING SITES

EPA Science Inventory

This paper primarily addresses remediation of contaminated soils and waste deposits at defunct lead-acid battery recycling sites (LBRS) via immobilization and separation processes. A defunct LBRS is a facility at which battery breaking, secondary lead smelting, or both operations...

A comparison of portable XRF and ICP-OES analysis for lead on air filter samples from a lead ore concentrator mill and a lead-acid battery recycler.

PubMed

Harper, Martin; Pacolay, Bruce; Hintz, Patrick; Andrew, Michael E

2006-03-01

Personal and area samples for airborne lead were taken at a lead mine concentrator mill, and at a lead-acid battery recycler. Lead is mined as its sulfidic ore, galena, which is often associated with zinc and silver. The ore typically is concentrated, and partially separated, on site by crushing and differential froth flotation of the ore minerals before being sent to a primary smelter. Besides lead, zinc and iron are also present in the airborne dusts, together with insignificant levels of copper and silver, and, in one area, manganese. The disposal of used lead-acid batteries presents environmental issues, and is also a waste of recoverable materials. Recycling operations allow for the recovery of lead, which can then be sold back to battery manufacturers to form a closed loop. At the recycling facility lead is the chief airborne metal, together with minor antimony and tin, but several other metals are generally present in much smaller quantities, including copper, chromium, manganese and cadmium. Samplers used in these studies included the closed-face 37 mm filter cassette (the current US standard method for lead sampling), the 37 mm GSP or "cone" sampler, the 25 mm Institute of Occupational Medicine (IOM) inhalable sampler, the 25 mm Button sampler, and the open-face 25 mm cassette. Mixed cellulose-ester filters were used in all samplers. The filters were analyzed after sampling for their content of the various metals, particularly lead, that could be analyzed by the specific portable X-ray fluorescence (XRF) analyzer under study, and then were extracted with acid and analyzed by inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES). The 25 mm filters were analyzed using a single XRF reading, while three readings on different parts of the filter were taken from the 37 mm filters. For lead at the mine concentrate mill, all five samplers gave good correlations (r2 > 0.96) between the two analytical methods over the entire range of found lead mass

Self-regulating valve

DOEpatents

Humphreys, D.A.

1982-07-20

A variable, self-regulating valve having a hydraulic loss coefficient proportional to a positive exponential power of the flow rate. The device includes two objects in a flow channel and structure which assures that the distance between the two objects is an increasing function of the flow rate. The range of spacing between the objects is such that the hydraulic resistance of the valve is an increasing function of the distance between the two objects so that the desired hydraulic loss coefficient as a function of flow rate is obtained without variation in the flow area.

Soil contamination from lead battery manufacturing and recycling in seven African countries.

PubMed

Gottesfeld, Perry; Were, Faridah Hussein; Adogame, Leslie; Gharbi, Semia; San, Dalila; Nota, Manti Michael; Kuepouo, Gilbert

2018-02-01

Lead battery recycling is a growing hazardous industry throughout Africa. We investigated potential soil contamination inside and outside formal sector recycling plants in seven countries. We collected 118 soil samples at 15 recycling plants and one battery manufacturing site and analyzed them for total lead. Lead levels in soils ranged from < 40-140,000mg/kg. Overall mean lead concentrations were ~23,200mg/kg but, average lead levels were 22-fold greater for soil samples from inside plant sites than from those collected outside these facilities. Arithmetic mean lead concentrations in soil samples from communities surrounding these plants were ~2600mg/kg. As the lead battery industry in Africa continues to expand, it is expected that the number and size of lead battery recycling plants will grow to meet the forecasted demand. There is an immediate need to address ongoing exposures in surrounding communities, emissions from this industry and to regulate site closure financing procedures to ensure that we do not leave behind a legacy of lead contamination that will impact millions in communities throughout Africa. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Lead-acid batteries in micro-hybrid vehicles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Albers, Joern; Meissner, Eberhard; Shirazi, Sepehr

More and more vehicles hit the European automotive market, which comprise some type of micro-hybrid functionality to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. Most carmakers already offer at least one of their vehicles with an optional engine start/stop system, while some other models are sold with micro-hybrid functions implemented by default. But these car concepts show a wide variety in detail-the term "micro-hybrid" may mean a completely different functionality in one vehicle model compared to another. Accordingly, also the battery technologies are not the same. There is a wide variety of batteries from standard flooded and enhanced flooded to AGM which all are claimed to be "best choice" for micro-hybrid applications. A technical comparison of micro-hybrid cars available on the European market has been performed. Different classes of cars with different characteristics have been identified. Depending on the scope and characteristics of micro-hybrid functions, as well as on operational strategies implemented by the vehicle makers, the battery operating duties differ significantly between these classes of vehicles. Additional laboratory investigations have been carried out to develop an understanding of effects observed in batteries operated in micro-hybrid vehicles pursuing different strategies, to identify limitations for applications of different battery technologies.

Brazilian policy on battery disposal and its practical effects on battery recycling

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Crocce Romano Espinosa, Denise; Moura Bernardes, Andréa; Alberto Soares Tenório, Jorge

The disposal of batteries is a problem that has grown in the last few years, due to the increase in the use of portable devices. Batteries may contain toxic metals such as cadmium, mercury and lead, so their disposal must be controlled. Brazil was the first country in Latin America to regulate the disposal and treatment of batteries. Limits were established on the concentration of heavy metals within batteries, so that they could be disposed along with domestic waste. Since batteries are products used broadly, it is very difficult to control their disposal. In order to have an efficient collection, the population must be engaged, and that can only happen if they are informed about the laws and regulations regarding the subject, as well as the importance of disposing of batteries with higher concentrations of heavy metals or toxic substances separately from domestic garbage. Around the world, there are some long-established recycling processes for batteries. In Brazil, automotive (lead-acid) batteries have been recycled for several years, whereas the recycling of other types of batteries is just starting. This work does an analysis of the Brazilian law for battery recycling and presents some suggestions and examples of the initiatives of other countries, in order to manage of this kind of dangerous waste.

Tricuspid valve repair for severe tricuspid regurgitation due to pacemaker leads.

PubMed

Uehara, Kyokun; Minakata, Kenji; Watanabe, Kentaro; Sakaguchi, Hisashi; Yamazaki, Kazuhiro; Ikeda, Tadashi; Sakata, Ryuzo

2016-07-01

Tricuspid valve regurgitation due to pacemaker leads is a well-known complication. Although some reports have suggested that pacemaker leads should be surgically explanted, strongly adhered leads cannot always be removed. The aim of this study was to describe our tricuspid valve repair techniques with pacemaker leads left in situ. Our retrospective study investigated 6 consecutive patients who required tricuspid valve surgery for severe regurgitation induced by pacemaker leads. From the operative findings, we identified 3 patterns of tricuspid valve and pacemaker lead involvement. In 3 patients, the leads were caught in the chordae, in 2 patients, tricuspid regurgitation was caused by lead impingement on the septal leaflet, and in 3 patients, tricuspid valve leaflets had been perforated by the pacemaker leads. During surgery, all leads were left in situ after being separated from the leaflet or valvular apparatus. In addition, suture annuloplasty was performed for annular dilatation in all cases. In one patient, the lead was reaffixed to the annulus after the posterior leaflet was cut back towards the annulus, and the leaflet was then closed. There was one hospital death due to sepsis. The degree of tricuspid regurgitation was trivial in all surviving patients at discharge. During a mean follow-up of 21 months, one patient died from pneumonia 20 months after tricuspid valve repair. In patients undergoing tricuspid valve surgery due to severe tricuspid regurgitation caused by pacemaker leads, the leads can be left in situ after proper repair with annuloplasty. © The Author(s) 2016.

Vaporization Would Cool Primary Battery

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bhandari, Pradeep; Miyake, Robert N.

1991-01-01

Temperature of discharging high-power-density primary battery maintained below specified level by evaporation of suitable liquid from jacket surrounding battery, according to proposal. Pressure-relief valve regulates pressure and boiling temperature of liquid. Less material needed in cooling by vaporization than in cooling by melting. Technique used to cool batteries in situations in which engineering constraints on volume, mass, and location prevent attachment of cooling fins, heat pipes, or like.

Review: Lead exposure in battery manufacturing and recycling in developing countries and among children in nearby communities.

PubMed

Gottesfeld, Perry; Pokhrel, Amod K

2011-09-01

The battery industry is the largest consumer of lead, using an estimated 80% of the global lead production. The industry is also rapidly expanding in emerging market countries. A review of published literature on exposures from lead-acid battery manufacturing and recycling plants in developing countries was conducted. The review included studies from 37 countries published from 1993 to 2010 and excluded facilities in developed countries, such as the United States and those in Western Europe, except for providing comparisons to reported findings. The average worker blood lead level (BLL) in developing countries was 47 μg/dL in battery manufacturing plants and 64 μg/dL in recycling facilities. Airborne lead concentrations reported in battery plants in developing countries averaged 367 μg/m3, which is 7-fold greater than the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration's 50 μg/m3 permissible exposure limit. The geometric mean BLL of children residing near battery plants in developing countries was 19 μg/dL, which is about 13-fold greater than the levels observed among children in the United States. The blood lead and airborne lead exposure concentrations for battery workers were substantially higher in developing countries than in the United States. This disparity may worsen due to rapid growth in lead-acid battery manufacturing and recycling operations worldwide. Given the lack of regulatory and enforcement capacity in most developing countries, third-party certification programs may be the only viable option to improve conditions.

Batteries for Electric Vehicles

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Conover, R. A.

1985-01-01

Report summarizes results of test on "near-term" electrochemical batteries - (batteries approaching commercial production). Nickel/iron, nickel/zinc, and advanced lead/acid batteries included in tests and compared with conventional lead/acid batteries. Batteries operated in electric vehicles at constant speed and repetitive schedule of accerlerating, coasting, and braking.

Lead paste recycling based on conversion into battery grade oxides. Electrochemical tests and industrial production of new batteries

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fusillo, G.; Rosestolato, D.; Scura, F.; Cattarin, S.; Mattarozzi, L.; Guerriero, P.; Gambirasi, A.; Brianese, N.; Staiti, P.; Guerriero, R.; La Sala, G.

2018-03-01

We present the preparation and characterization of pure lead monoxide obtained through recycling of the lead paste recovered from exhausted lead acid batteries. The recycling is based on a hydrometallurgical procedure reported in a STC Patent, that includes simple chemical operations (desulphurisation, leaching, precipitation, filtration) and a final thermal conversion. Materials obtained by treatment at 600 °C consist predominantly of β-PbO. The electrochemical behaviour of Positive Active Mass (PAM) prepared from different materials (or mixtures) is then investigated and compared. An optimized oxide material, obtained by prolonged (8 h) thermal treatment at 600 °C, consists of pure β-PbO and appears suitable for preparation of battery elements, alone or in mixture with a small fraction (10%-30%) of traditional industrial leady oxide. The resulting battery performances are similar to those obtained from pure leady oxide. In comparison with traditional recycling processes, the proposed method guarantees lower energy consumption, limited environmental impact and reduced operating risk for industry workers.

Bipolar lead-acid batteries for electrical actuation applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Pierce, Douglas C.; Gentry, William O.; Hall, David

1994-01-01

This document presents in viewgraph format information on bipolar battery development at Johnson Controls, Incorporated. The organization structure, goals, progress to date, future plans, and battery parameters and electrical properties are given.

Reliability of lead-calcium automotive batteries in practical operations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Burghoff, H.-G.; Richter, G.

In order to reach a statistically sound conclusion on the suitability of maintenance-free, lead-calcium automotive batteries for practical operations, the failure behaviour of such batteries has been observed in a large-scale experiment carried out by Mercedes Benz AG and Robert Bosch GmbH in different climatic zones of North America. The results show that the average failure behaviour is not significantly different to that of batteries from other manufacturers using other grid alloy systems and operated under otherwise identical conditions; the cumulative failure probability after 30 months is 17%. The principal causes of failure are: (i) early failure: transport damage, filling errors, and short-circuits due to the outer plates being pushed up during plate-block assembly (manufacturing defect); (ii) statistical failure: short-circuits due to growth of positive plates caused by a reduction in the mechanical strength of the cast positive grid as a result of corrosion; (iii) late failure due to an increased occurrence of short-circuits, especially frequent in outer cell facing the engine of the vehicle (subjected to high temperature), and to defects caused by capacity decay. As expected, the batteries exhibit extremely low water loss in each cell. The poor cyclical performance of stationary batteries, caused by acid stratification and well-known from laboratory tests, has no detrimental effect on the batteries in use. After a thorough analysis of the corrosion process, the battery manufacturer changed the grid alloy and the method of its production, and thus limited the corrosion problem with cast lead-calcium grids and with it the possibility of plate growth. The mathematical methods used in this study, and in particular the characteristic factors derived from them, have proven useful for assessing the suitability of automotive batteries.

Update on Recovering Lead From Scrap Batteries

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cole, E. R.; Lee, A. Y.; Paulson, D. L.

1985-02-01

Previous work at the Bureau of Mines Rolla Research Center, U.S. Department of the Interior, resulted in successful development of a bench-scale, combination electrorefining-electrowinning method for recycling lead from scrap batteries by using waste fluosilicic acid (H2SiF6) as electrolyte.1,2 This paper describes larger scale experiments. Prior attempts to electrowin lead failed because large quantities of insoluble lead dioxide were deposited on the anodes at the expense of lead deposition on the cathodes. A major breakthrough was achieved with the discovery that lead dioxide formation at the anodes is prevented by adding a small amount of phosphorus to the electrolyte. The amount of PbO2 formed on the anodes during lead electrowinning was less than 1% of the total lead deposited on the cathodes. This work recently won the prestigious IR·100 award as one of the 100 most significant technological advances of 1984.

Evaluation of tricuspid valve regurgitation following laser lead extraction†.

PubMed

Pecha, Simon; Castro, Liesa; Gosau, Nils; Linder, Matthias; Vogler, Julia; Willems, Stephan; Reichenspurner, Hermann; Hakmi, Samer

2017-06-01

The objective of this study was to examine the effect of laser lead extraction (LLE) on the development of post-procedural tricuspid regurgitation (TR). Some reports have suggested an increase in TR associated with LLE. We present a series of patients who underwent both, LLE and complete echocardiographic evaluation for TR. A single centre analysis of consecutive patients referred for LLE between January 2012 and August 2015. One hundred and three patients had tricuspid valve function evaluated before the procedure with a transthoracic echocardiography (TTE), during the procedure using transoesophageal echocardiography and postoperatively using a TTE. TR was graded from 0 (none) to 4 (severe). We treated 235 leads in 103 patients, including 118 ventricular leads. Seventy-seven were male (74.8%) and 26 female (25.2%), with a mean age of 65.6 ± 15.4 years. Mean time from initial lead implantation was 98.0 ± 67.3 months. Twenty-one patients (20.4%) had ejection fraction below 30%. No intra-procedural worsening of tricuspid valve function was seen with TEE in any of the patients. Ten patients (9.7%) were found to have TR before LLE that returned to normal valve function after the procedure. Two patients (1.9%) experienced mild TR after the procedure (both with tricuspid valve endocarditis). Ninety-one patients (88.3%) did not experience any significant change of the tricuspid valve function after LLE. Transthoracic and transoesophageal echocardiography findings showed that laser lead extraction was not associated with a significant increase in the incidence of tricuspid valve regurgitation. © The Author 2017. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the European Association for Cardio-Thoracic Surgery. All rights reserved.

Reductive smelting of spent lead-acid battery colloid sludge in a molten Na2CO3 salt

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hu, Yu-jie; Tang, Chao-bo; Tang, Mo-tang; Chen, Yong-ming

2015-08-01

Lead extraction from spent lead-acid battery paste in a molten Na2CO3 salt containing ZnO as a sulfur-fixing agent was studied. Some influencing factors, including smelting temperature, reaction time, ZnO and salt dosages, were investigated in detail using single-factor experiments. The optimum conditions were determined as follows: T = 880°C; t = 60 min; Na2CO3/paste mass ratio = 2.8:1; and the ZnO dosage is equal to the stoichiometric requirement. Under the optimum conditions, the direct recovery rate of lead reached 98.14%. The results suggested that increases in temperature and salt dosage improved the direct recovery rate of lead. XRD results and thermodynamic calculations indicated that the reaction approaches of lead and sulfur were PbSO4→Pb and PbSO4→ZnS, respectively. Sulfur was fixed in the form of ZnS, whereas the molten salt did not react with other components, serving only as a reaction medium.

Status of the lead/acid battery industry in Malaysia

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wong, J.

The Malaysian automotive battery industry has an over-capacity and is experiencing a highly competitive situation in the domestic market. In the medium term, therefore, the industry will concentrate on making advances in battery design and technology, and on improving productivity. The manufacture of industrial batteries is similarly under pressure, particularly from foreign products. At present, it is not feasible to produce locally all the various types of industrial batteries required by the home market.

Interactions between lignosulphonates and the components of the lead-acid battery. Part 1. Adsorption isotherms

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Myrvold, Bernt O.

The expander performs at least five different tasks in the battery. It is a fluidiser for the negative paste. It controls the formation stage of the battery. It controls the shape and size of the lead sulphate crystals formed upon discharge, and thus prevents the sintering of the active mass. It controls the rate of the lead to lead sulphate oxidation during discharge. Finally, it affects the charge acceptance. To gain more understanding of these different effects the interaction between lead, lead(II) oxide, lead(IV) oxide, lead sulphate, barium sulphate and carbon black and the experimental lignosulphonate (LS) expander UP-414 has been investigated. We also compared with Vanisperse A and several other lignosulphonates, to elucidate the mechanisms operating. In most cases, we have studied concentration ranges that are both higher and lower than those normally encountered in batteries. There is no adsorption of lignosulphonates to pure lead surfaces. Adsorption to lead sulphate is a slow process. In the presence of lead ions lignosulphonates will also adsorb to lead. The adsorption to lead(II) oxide is a fast process, and a strong adsorption occurs. In all these cases, it is preferably the high molecular weight fraction that interacts with the solid surfaces. Lead ions leaching from the surface complexes with lignosulphonates to give a more hydrophobic species. This allows the normally negatively charged lignosulphonate to adsorb to the negatively charged substrates. The lignosulphonates have an ability to complex lead ions and keep them solvated. This confirms previous observations of the lignosulphonates ability to promote the dissolution-precipitation mechanism for lead sulphate formation on the expense of the solid-state reaction.

Environmental sampling of lead near a battery reprocessing factory

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Leung, H.W.

1988-09-01

Exposed workers in lead smelting plants and lead storage battery factories have reported illnesses related to inhalation of lead oxide fumes. The residential community of La Gloria, a town of about 15,000 people located approximately 13 km southwest of Tijuana, Baja California, Mexico was an area where residents were concerned about possible health effects and environmental contamination from lead due to the proximity of battery factory that used lead oxide in the battery grid separation procedure. This study was undertaken to investigate the lead levels in the soil, plant and water collected in various areas around this battery reprocessing plant.

Evidence of recycling of lead battery waste into highly leaded jewelry.

PubMed

Weidenhamer, Jeffrey D; Clement, Michael L

2007-11-01

Inexpensive highly leaded jewelry, much of it imported from China, remains widely available in the United States. The source materials for these items are unknown. Due to the low cost of much of this trinket jewelry, it seems likely that scrap materials may be used in their manufacture. Thirty-nine jewelry items previously determined to contain 90% or more lead by weight were analyzed for antimony content. The average antimony content of these thirty-nine items was 3.0%. The range of antimony content in the samples was from 0.3% to 6.2% antimony by weight, with twenty-seven of the samples in the range of 2-4% antimony by weight. By comparison, battery lead standard reference material obtained from the US National Institute of Standards and Technology contains 2.95% antimony by weight. While the evidence is circumstantial, the similarity in composition of these samples to battery lead is striking and supports the hypothesis that some battery lead is being recycled into highly leaded jewelry items. These results suggest that the recycling of this waste in China needs to be investigated, as the use of lead battery waste as a source material for children's jewelry poses a clear threat to children's health.

Maintenance-free lead acid battery for inertial navigation systems aircraft

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Johnson, William R.; Vutetakis, David G.

1995-05-01

Historically, Aircraft Inertial Navigation System (INS) Batteries have utilized vented nickel-cadmium batteries for emergency DC power. The United States Navy and Air Force developed separate systems during their respective INS developments. The Navy contracted with Litton Industries to produce the LTN-72 and Air Force contracted with Delco to produce the Carousel IV INS for the large cargo and specialty aircraft applications. Over the years, a total of eight different battery national stock numbers (NSNs) have entered the stock system along with 75 battery spare part NSNs. The Standard Hardware Acquisition and Reliability Program is working with the Aircraft Battery Group at Naval Surface Warfare Center Crane Division, Naval Air Systems Command (AIR 536), Wright Laboratory, Battelle Memorial Institute, and Concorde Battery Corporation to produce a standard INS battery. This paper discusses the approach taken to determine whether the battery should be replaced and to select the replacement chemistry. The paper also discusses the battery requirements, aircraft that the battery is compatible with, and status of Navy flight evaluation. Projected savings in avoided maintenance in Navy and Air Force INS Systems is projected to be $14.7 million per year with a manpower reduction of 153 maintenance personnel. The new INS battery is compatible with commercially sold INS systems which represents 66 percent of the systems sold.

Combined pressure regulator and shutoff valve

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Koch, E. F. (Inventor)

1974-01-01

A remotely operable pressure regulator and shutoff valve particularly suited for achieving high resolution and flow control, and positive shutoff is described. The valve is characterized by a spring-loaded ball coaxially aligned with a fluid port to be sealed, a spring-loaded pintle extended through the port into engagement with the ball, for controlling the position, a spring-loaded diaphragm for controlling the position of the pintle, and an axially displaceable spring supported by a movable stop which, in turn, is repositioned by a selectively operable stepper motor. Thus, the pressure-response characteristics for the valve can be varied through a selective repositioning of the stop.

Occupational lead toxicity in battery workers

PubMed Central

Basit, Shahla; Karim, Nasim; Munshi, Alia Bano

2015-01-01

Objective: To estimate blood lead level (BLL) and to assess the features of lead toxicity among lead acid battery (LAB) industrial workers. Methods: This prospective study was carried out in the medical centre of PCSIR Laboratories, Karachi from March 2012 – March 2013. Fifty LAB industry workers, males and females between 17-65 years were included in the study. They were divided into group 1 with 40 workers- directly related and group 2 with 10 workers –indirectly related, (administration staff members) to LAB manufacture. Detailed history, complete physical examination and BLL estimation by flameless atomic absorption spectrophotometer was done. Results: Total 34 patients in group 1 and 3 patients in group 2 had elevated BLL. Comparison of group 1 and 2 revealed anemia (40v/s4), bone pain (38v/s7), abdominal pain (38 v/s 2), nausea (32v/s6), head ache & irritability (24v/s6), weakness & lethargy (21v/s6), tremors (13v/s0) insomnia (5v/s4), lead line (4v/s 0) and blood pressure above 140/90 mm of Hg (12v/s0) respectively. Conclusion: High blood lead level and features attributable to lead toxicity were prevalent among LAB industry workers of Karachi. PMID:26430401

VRLA Refined™ lead — A must for VRLA batteries. Specification and Performance

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stevenson, M. W.; Lakshmi, C. S.; Manders, J. E.; Lam, L. T.

VRLA Refined™ lead produced and marketed by Pasminco since 1997 is a very high purity lead with guaranteed low levels of the gassing elements but with optimum bismuth content that produces oxide of finer particle size, higher acid absorption and imparts outstanding electrical performance and endurance especially under conditions of deep cycling. VRLA batteries suffer dry-out, self-discharge, negative plate capacity loss and poor cycle life unless special lead is used for the grids and active material. This paper addresses the lead used for active material.

United States Marine Corps (USMC) Single Channel Ground and Airborne Radio System (SINCGARS) rechargeable battery trade-off study. Technical report, June-September 1992

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Allard, S.M.; Albert, N.F.

1992-09-18

Cost estimates for USMC SINCGARS usage of BB-5590/U Lithium Sulfur Dioxide (LiSO[sub 2]) Batteries, BA-590/U Sealed Lead-Acid Batteries, and BB-490/U Nickel-Cadmium (Ni-Cad) Batteries. Estimates encompass battery costs, charger costs as applicable, and disposal costs. Annual battery-related costs were estimated for USMC usage of mix of LiSO[sub 2] and Ni-Cad batteries ranging from 100% use of LiSO[sub 2] batteries to 100% use of Ni-Cad batteries; and for mix of LiSO[sub 2] and Lead-Acid batteries over the same range. Estimated hourly battery-related costs are $2.66 per hour for LiSO[sub 2] batteries $0.34 for Ni-Cad batteries, and $0.30 for Lead-Acid batteries. Disposal relatedmore » regulations and related documents are discussed and included in Appendices.« less

Dental erosion in workers exposed to sulfuric acid in lead storage battery manufacturing facility.

PubMed

Suyama, Yuji; Takaku, Satoru; Okawa, Yoshikazu; Matsukubo, Takashi

2010-01-01

Dental erosion, and specifically its symptoms, has long been studied in Japan as an occupational dental disease. However, in recent years, few studies have investigated the development of this disease or labor hygiene management aimed at its prevention. As a result, interest in dental erosion is comparatively low, even among dental professionals. Our investigation at a lead storage battery factory in 1991 found that the work environmental sulfuric acid density was above the tolerable range (1.0mg/m(3)) and that longterm workers had dental erosion. Therefore, workers handling sulfuric acid were given an oral examination and rates of dental erosion by tooth type, rates of erosion by number of working years and rates of erosion by sulfuric acid density in the work environment investigated. Where dental erosion was diagnosed, degree of erosion was identified according to a diagnostic criterion. No development of dental erosion was detected in the maxillary teeth, and erosion was concentrated in the anterior mandibular teeth. Its prevalence was as high as 20%. Rates of dental erosion rose precipitously after 10 working years. The percentages of workers with dental erosion were 42.9% for 10-14 years, 57.1% for 15-19 years and 66.7% for over 20 years with 22.5% for total number of workers. The percentages of workers with dental erosion rose in proportion to work environmental sulfuric acid density: 17.9% at 0.5-1.0, 25.0% at 1.0-4.0 and 50.0% at 4.0-8.0mg/m(3). This suggests that it is necessary to evaluate not only years of exposure to sulfuric acid but also sulfuric acid density in the air in factory workers.

[Analysis of washing efficiency and change in lead speciation in lead-contaminated soil of a battery factory].

PubMed

Ren, Bei; Huang, Jin-lou; Miao, Ming-sheng

2013-09-01

Lead-contaminated soil with different pollution load in a lead battery factory in the southwest of China was chosen as the research object, the lead content and speciation were analyzed, and different washing agents were screened. The lead washing efficiency and lead speciation were analyzed under different pH conditions, and the soil of different particle size was washed using different duration to determine the best washing time. The results showed that the soil of sites A and B in the factory was severely contaminated, the lead concentration reaching 15,703.22 mg x kg(-1) and 1747.78 mg x kg(-1), respectively, and the proportion of the active-state lead was relatively high, while the residue state accounted for only 17.32%, 11.64%, 14.6% and 10.2%. EDTA and hydrochloric acid showed the best extraction effect in the 5 washing agents tested, which included EDTA, hydrochloric acid, citric acid, rhamnolipid and SDS. Cleaning under acidic conditions could not only effectively extract the total amount of lead but also effectively reduce the environmental risk of active-state lead. pH 4-7 was suggested as the most appropriate condition. The cleaning effect of coarse sand and fine sand was good, while for washing powder clay, it is better to improve the process, with the optimal washing time determined as 240 min.

Side-Specific Endothelial-Dependent Regulation of Aortic Valve Calcification

PubMed Central

Richards, Jennifer; El-Hamamsy, Ismail; Chen, Si; Sarang, Zubair; Sarathchandra, Padmini; Yacoub, Magdi H.; Chester, Adrian H.; Butcher, Jonathan T.

2014-01-01

Arterial endothelial cells maintain vascular homeostasis and vessel tone in part through the secretion of nitric oxide (NO). In this study, we determined how aortic valve endothelial cells (VEC) regulate aortic valve interstitial cell (VIC) phenotype and matrix calcification through NO. Using an anchored in vitro collagen hydrogel culture system, we demonstrate that three-dimensionally cultured porcine VIC do not calcify in osteogenic medium unless under mechanical stress. Co-culture with porcine VEC, however, significantly attenuated VIC calcification through inhibition of myofibroblastic activation, osteogenic differentiation, and calcium deposition. Incubation with the NO donor DETA-NO inhibited VIC osteogenic differentiation and matrix calcification, whereas incubation with the NO blocker l-NAME augmented calcification even in 3D VIC–VEC co-culture. Aortic VEC, but not VIC, expressed endothelial NO synthase (eNOS) in both porcine and human valves, which was reduced in osteogenic medium. eNOS expression was reduced in calcified human aortic valves in a side-specific manner. Porcine leaflets exposed to the soluble guanylyl cyclase inhibitor ODQ increased osteocalcin and α-smooth muscle actin expression. Finally, side-specific shear stress applied to porcine aortic valve leaflet endothelial surfaces increased cGMP production in VEC. Valve endothelial-derived NO is a natural inhibitor of the early phases of valve calcification and therefore may be an important regulator of valve homeostasis and pathology. PMID:23499458

Progress in batteries and solar cells - Volume 6

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shimotake, Hiroshi; Voss, Ernst

The present conference encompasses topics in lithium cell development, manganese cell design, lead-acid batteries, fuel cells, nickel-cadmium and other rechargeable batteries, and battery chargers and related power systems. Attention is given to molten carbonate fuel cells, prospects for sodium/sulfur propulsion batteries, ultrathin lithium batteries, solid state batteries, a gelled electrolyte lead-acid battery for deep discharge applications, and phosphoric acid fuel cells. Also discussed are computer-based battery monitors, a novel nickel-iron battery for electric vehicle applications, conductive polymer electrode electrochemical cells, and catalyst- and electrode-related research for phosphoric acid fuel cells.

Battery Research & Development Need for Military Vehicle Application

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-06-19

The charge control for lithium ion battery chemistries is different from those of flooded and sealed lead acid batteries. • The discharge control...for lithium ion battery chemistries is different from those of flooded and sealed lead acid batteries. • Battery charging voltage changes with the

Sequential Ligand-Dependent Notch Signaling Activation Regulates Valve Primordium Formation and Morphogenesis.

PubMed

MacGrogan, Donal; D'Amato, Gaetano; Travisano, Stanislao; Martinez-Poveda, Beatriz; Luxán, Guillermo; Del Monte-Nieto, Gonzalo; Papoutsi, Tania; Sbroggio, Mauro; Bou, Vanesa; Gomez-Del Arco, Pablo; Gómez, Manuel Jose; Zhou, Bin; Redondo, Juan Miguel; Jiménez-Borreguero, Luis J; de la Pompa, José Luis

2016-05-13

The Notch signaling pathway is crucial for primitive cardiac valve formation by epithelial-mesenchymal transition, and NOTCH1 mutations cause bicuspid aortic valve; however, the temporal requirement for the various Notch ligands and receptors during valve ontogeny is poorly understood. The aim of this study is to determine the functional specificity of Notch in valve development. Using cardiac-specific conditional targeted mutant mice, we find that endothelial/endocardial deletion of Mib1-Dll4-Notch1 signaling, possibly favored by Manic-Fringe, is specifically required for cardiac epithelial-mesenchymal transition. Mice lacking endocardial Jag1, Notch1, or RBPJ displayed enlarged valve cusps, bicuspid aortic valve, and septal defects, indicating that endocardial Jag1 to Notch1 signaling is required for post-epithelial-mesenchymal transition valvulogenesis. Valve dysmorphology was associated with increased mesenchyme proliferation, indicating that Jag1-Notch1 signaling restricts mesenchyme cell proliferation non-cell autonomously. Gene profiling revealed upregulated Bmp signaling in Jag1-mutant valves, providing a molecular basis for the hyperproliferative phenotype. Significantly, the negative regulator of mesenchyme proliferation, Hbegf, was markedly reduced in Jag1-mutant valves. Hbegf expression in embryonic endocardial cells could be readily activated through a RBPJ-binding site, identifying Hbegf as an endocardial Notch target. Accordingly, addition of soluble heparin-binding EGF-like growth factor to Jag1-mutant outflow tract explant cultures rescued the hyperproliferative phenotype. During cardiac valve formation, Dll4-Notch1 signaling leads to epithelial-mesenchymal transition and cushion formation. Jag1-Notch1 signaling subsequently restrains Bmp-mediated valve mesenchyme proliferation by sustaining Hbegf-EGF receptor signaling. Our studies identify a mechanism of signaling cross talk during valve morphogenesis involved in the origin of congenital heart

1992 five year battery forecast

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Amistadi, D.

1992-12-01

Five-year trends for automotive and industrial batteries are projected. Topic covered include: SLI shipments; lead consumption; automotive batteries (5-year annual growth rates); industrial batteries (standby power and motive power); estimated average battery life by area/country for 1989; US motor vehicle registrations; replacement battery shipments; potential lead consumption in electric vehicles; BCI recycling rates for lead-acid batteries; US average car/light truck battery life; channels of distribution; replacement battery inventory end July; 2nd US battery shipment forecast.

Permanent pacemaker lead induced severe tricuspid regurgitation in patient undergoing multiple valve surgery.

PubMed

Lee, Jung Hee; Kim, Tae Ho; Kim, Wook Sung

2015-04-01

Severe and permanent tricuspid regurgitation induced by pacemaker leads is rarely reported in the literature. The mechanism of pacemaker-induced tricuspid regurgitation has been identified, but its management has not been well established. Furthermore, debate still exists regarding the proper surgical approach. We present the case of a patient with severe tricuspid regurgitation induced by a pacemaker lead, accompanied by triple valve disease. The patient underwent double valve replacement and tricuspid valve repair without removal of the pre-existing pacemaker lead. The operation was successful and the surgical procedure is discussed in detail.

Liquid rocket pressure regulators, relief valves, check valves, burst disks, and explosive valves. [design techniques and practices

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1973-01-01

The development of and operational programs for effective use in design are presented for liquid rocket pressure regulators, relief valves, check valves, burst disks, and explosive valves. A review of the total design problem is presented, and design elements are identified which are involved in successful design. Current technology pertaining to these elements is also described. Design criteria are presented which state what rule or standard must be imposed on each essential design element to assure successful design. These criteria serve as a checklist of rules for a project manager to use in guiding a design or in assessing its adequacy. Recommended practices are included which state how to satisfy each of the criteria.

Development of high power VRLA batteries using novel materials and processes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Soria, M. L.; Valenciano, J.; Ojeda, A.; Raybaut, G.; Ihmels, K.; Deiters, J.; Clement, N.; Morales, J.; Sánchez, L.

Nowadays UPS manufacturers demand batteries with very high specific power and relatively low specific energy, because most mains failures can be defined as "microfailures", usually of the order of seconds. Due to this fact, it is not necessary to provide energy but power. Within a 3-year EU funded project, a new AGM valve-regulated lead-acid battery with weight and volume substantially reduced, as well as a substantial improvement in its reliability, is under development. These aspects can provide the achievement of a more efficient, safe and economic energy supply. Battery specific power is practically related to electrode area, so that its increase, and therefore an electrode thickness reduction, appear essential to achieve the project objectives. Furthermore, it is necessary to achieve a similar reduction in the conventional glass microfibre separator. But such thin material should have improved mechanical properties and can make the battery more prone to develop short circuits across the separator. In order to avoid this problem, a new microporous polyethylene membrane has been developed and tested, with excellent mechanical properties, high porosity and low pore size. For these reasons, the final separator configuration includes a combination of both materials, improved non-woven glass microfibre and the polyethylene membrane. Batteries are designed and assembled by Tudor (Exide Technologies) as battery manufacturer and will be tested in real conditions by MGE UPS Systems as end user. Daramic for the membrane and Bernard Dumas for the glass microfibre mat, have developed and supplied the separators, while the Inorganic Chemistry Department of Córdoba University carries out fundamental research studies on very thin electrodes.

Recycling of waste lead storage battery by vacuum methods.

PubMed

Lin, Deqiang; Qiu, Keqiang

2011-07-01

Waste lead storage battery is the most important recyclable lead material not only in various European and other OECD countries but also in China. Pollution control of lead has become the focus of people's attention in the world. A vacuum process for recycling waste lead storage battery was developed in this work. The experimental results showed that all the valuable materials in waste lead storage battery could be satisfactorily recycled by vacuum technologies. The vacuum melting of lead grids and the vacuum reduction of lead pastes produce the lead bullion with the direct recovery ratio of 96.29% and 98.98%, respectively. The vacuum pyrolysis of plastics can produce pyrolysis oil with yield of more than 93 wt.%. These vacuum recycling technologies offer improvements in metallurgical and environmental performance. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Sol-Gel Electrolytes Incorporated by Lanthanide Luminescent Materials and Their Photophysical Properties

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yu, Chufang; Zhang, Zhengyang; Fu, Meizhen; Gao, Jinwei; Zheng, Yuhui

2017-10-01

A group of silica gel electrolytes with lanthanide luminescent hybrid materials were assembled and investigated. Photophysical studies showed that terbium and europium hybrids displayed characteristic green and red emissions within the electrolytes. The influence of different concentration of the lanthanide hybrids on the electrochemical behavior of a gelled electrolyte valve-regulated lead-acid battery were studied through cyclic voltammograms, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, water holding experiments and mobility tests. The morphology and particle size were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy. The results proved that lanthanide (Tb3+/Eu3+) luminescent materials are effective additives which will significantly improve the electrochemical properties of lead-acid batteries.

Childhood Lead Exposure from Battery Recycling in Vietnam.

PubMed

Daniell, William E; Van Tung, Lo; Wallace, Ryan M; Havens, Deborah J; Karr, Catherine J; Bich Diep, Nguyen; Croteau, Gerry A; Beaudet, Nancy J; Duy Bao, Nguyen

2015-01-01

Battery recycling facilities in developing countries can cause community lead exposure. To evaluate child lead exposure in a Vietnam battery recycling craft village after efforts to shift home-based recycling outside the village. This cross-sectional study evaluated 109 children in Dong Mai village, using blood lead level (BLL) measurement, parent interview, and household observation. Blood samples were analyzed with a LeadCare II field instrument; highest BLLs (≥45 μg/dL) were retested by laboratory analysis. Surface and soil lead were measured at 11 households and a school with X-ray fluorescence analyzer. All children had high BLLs; 28% had BLL ≥45 μg/dL. Younger age, family recycling, and outside brick surfaces were associated with higher BLL. Surface and soil lead levels were high at all tested homes, even with no recycling history. Laboratory BLLs were lower than LeadCare BLLs, in 24 retested children. In spite of improvements, lead exposure was still substantial and probably associated with continued home-based recycling, legacy contamination, and workplace take-home exposure pathways. There is a need for effective strategies to manage lead exposure from battery recycling in craft villages. These reported BLL values should be interpreted cautiously, although the observed field-laboratory discordance may reflect bias in laboratory results.

Secondary lead production in Malaysia

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Phillips, M. J.; Lim, S. S.

The increase in the number of vehicles and, subsequently, the volume of batteries made by manufacturers in Malaysia have seen a dramatic rise in lead demand over the last five years. Without any lead mines, the only source of lead in Malaysia has been from the recycling of lead/acid batteries. Metal Reclamation (Industries) has commenced the design of a new and advanced secondary lead plant at West Port, Malaysia to meet the increasing demand for lead and the increasingly stringent environmental regulations. The plant is designed to produce up to 75 000 t of lead and lead alloys per year. The plant will also produce, as by-products: polypropylene chips, wallboard-grade gypsum, non-leachable slag for use in construction. A discussion of the process and the products from the new secondary smelter is outlined.

Lead toxicity in battery workers.

PubMed

Qasim, Saeeda Fouzia; Baloch, Malka

2014-11-01

Lead poisoning is a medical condition caused by increased levels of lead in the body. Routes of exposure include contaminated air, water, soil, food and consumer products. Occupational exposure is the main cause of lead poisoning in the adults. Two cases of occupational lead poisoning in adult battery workers are hereby presented. Both male patients had initial non-specific symptoms of intermittent abdominal pain, fatigue and headache for 6 - 8 years. Later on, they developed psychosis, slurred speech, tremors of hands and initially underwent treatment for Parkinsonism and Wilson's disease because of clinical misdiagnosis. They were diagnosed with lead poisoning later and were treated successfully with lead chelator (CaNa2 EDTA).

Review of storage battery system cost estimates

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Brown, D.R.; Russell, J.A.

1986-04-01

Cost analyses for zinc bromine, sodium sulfur, and lead acid batteries were reviewed. Zinc bromine and sodium sulfur batteries were selected because of their advanced design nature and the high level of interest in these two technologies. Lead acid batteries were included to establish a baseline representative of a more mature technology.

Response of lead-acid batteries to chopper-controlled discharge

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cataldo, R. L.

1978-01-01

The preliminary results of simulated electric vehicle, chopper, speed controller discharge of a battery show energy output losses at up to 25 percent compared to constant current discharges at the same average discharge current of 100 A. These energy losses are manifested as temperature rises during discharge, amounting to a two-fold increase for a 400-A pulse compared to the constant current case. Because of the potentially large energy inefficiency, the results suggest that electric vehicle battery/speed controller interaction must be carefully considered in vehicle design.

Long-life, space-maintainable nuclear stage regulators and shutoff valves

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1972-01-01

The six most promising valve, regulator, and remote coupling concepts, representing the more radical designs from twenty concepts generated, were investigated. Of the three valves, one has no moving parts because shutoff sealing is accomplished by an electromagnetic field which ionized the flowing fluid. Another valve uses liquid metal to obtain sealing. In the third valve, high sealing forces are generated by heating and expanding trapped hydrogen. The pressure regulator is an electronically controlled, electromechanically operated, single state valve. Its complexity is in electronic circuitry, and the design results in less weight, increased reliability and performance flexibility, and multipurpose application. The two remote couplings feature the minimization of weight and mechanical complexity. One concept uses a low melting temperature metal alloy which is injected into the joint cavity; upon solidification, the alloy provides a seal and a structural joint. The second concept is based on the differential thermal expansion of the coupling mating parts. At thermal equilibrium there is a predetermined interference between the parts, and sealing is achieved by interference loading.

Development of lead-acid battery thermal management systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Delaney, W. C.; McKinney, B. L.; Mrotek, E. N.; Weinlein, C. E.

The design and construction of thermal management systems developed for battery packs supplied for field service units are discussed. Thermal management on the module and pack levels is addressed, describing experimental results. A recently developed thermal management system is described.

Childhood Lead Exposure from Battery Recycling in Vietnam

PubMed Central

Van Tung, Lo; Wallace, Ryan M.; Havens, Deborah J.; Karr, Catherine J.; Bich Diep, Nguyen; Croteau, Gerry A.; Beaudet, Nancy J.; Duy Bao, Nguyen

2015-01-01

Background. Battery recycling facilities in developing countries can cause community lead exposure. Objective. To evaluate child lead exposure in a Vietnam battery recycling craft village after efforts to shift home-based recycling outside the village. Methods. This cross-sectional study evaluated 109 children in Dong Mai village, using blood lead level (BLL) measurement, parent interview, and household observation. Blood samples were analyzed with a LeadCare II field instrument; highest BLLs (≥45 μg/dL) were retested by laboratory analysis. Surface and soil lead were measured at 11 households and a school with X-ray fluorescence analyzer. Results. All children had high BLLs; 28% had BLL ≥45 μg/dL. Younger age, family recycling, and outside brick surfaces were associated with higher BLL. Surface and soil lead levels were high at all tested homes, even with no recycling history. Laboratory BLLs were lower than LeadCare BLLs, in 24 retested children. Discussion. In spite of improvements, lead exposure was still substantial and probably associated with continued home-based recycling, legacy contamination, and workplace take-home exposure pathways. There is a need for effective strategies to manage lead exposure from battery recycling in craft villages. These reported BLL values should be interpreted cautiously, although the observed field-laboratory discordance may reflect bias in laboratory results. PMID:26587532

Historical View on Lead: Guidelines and Regulations.

PubMed

Pohl, Hana R; Ingber, Susan Z; Abadin, Henry G

2017-04-10

Lead has been used in many commodities for centuries. As a result, human exposure has occurred through the production and use of these lead-containing products. For example, leaded gasoline, lead-based paint, and lead solder/pipes in water distribution systems have been important in terms of exposure potential to the general population. Worker exposures occur in various industrial activities such as lead smelting and refining, battery manufacturing, steel welding or cutting operations, printing, and construction. Some industrial locations have also been a source of exposure to the surrounding communities. While the toxicity of relatively high lead exposures has been recognized for centuries, modern scientific studies have shown adverse health effects at very low doses, particularly in the developing nervous system of fetuses and children. This chapter reflects on historical and current views on lead toxicity. It also addresses the development and evolution of exposure prevention policies. As discussed here, these lead policies target a variety of potential exposure routes and sources. The changes reflect our better understanding of lead toxicity. The chapter provides lead-related guidelines and regulations currently valid in the U. S. and in many countries around the world. The reader will learn about the significant progress that has been made through regulations and guidelines to reduce exposure and prevent lead toxicity.

Microblower assisted barometric valve

DOEpatents

Rossabi, Joseph; Hyde, Warren K.; Riha, Brian D.; Jackson, Dennis G.; Sappington, Frank

2005-12-06

A gas exchange apparatus is provided which provides for both passive fluid flow and blower associated fluid flow through a barometric valve. A battery powered blower is provided which allows for operation of the barometric valve during times when the barometric valve would otherwise be closed, and provides for enhanced volume of gas exchange.

Battery charge regulator is coulometer controlled

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Paulkovich, J.

1967-01-01

Coulometer controlled battery charge regulator controls nickel/cadmium type primary cells used in space applications. The use of the coulometer as an ampere hour measuring device permits all available current to go to the battery until full charge state is reached, at which time the charge rate is automatically reduced.

Hydrogen gas relief valve

DOEpatents

Whittlesey, Curtis C.

1985-01-01

An improved battery stack design for an electrochemical system having at least one cell from which a gas is generated and an electrolyte in communication with the cell is described. The improved battery stack design features means for defining a substantially closed compartment for containing the battery cells and at least a portion of the electrolyte for the system, and means in association with the compartment means for selectively venting gas from the interior of the compartment means in response to the level of the electrolyte within the compartment means. The venting means includes a relief valve having a float member which is actuated in response to the level of the electrolyte within the compartment means. This float member is adapted to close the relief valve when the level of the electrolyte is above a predetermined level and open the relief valve when the level of electrolyte is below this predetermined level.

Design options for automotive batteries in advanced car electrical systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Peters, K.

The need to reduce fuel consumption, minimize emissions, and improve levels of safety, comfort and reliability is expected to result in a much higher demand for electric power in cars within the next 5 years. Forecasts vary, but a fourfold increase in starting power to 20 kW is possible, particularly if automatic stop/start features are adopted to significantly reduce fuel consumption and exhaust emissions. Increases in the low-rate energy demand are also forecast, but the use of larger alternators may avoid unacceptable high battery weights. It is also suggested from operational models that the battery will be cycled more deeply. In examining possible designs, the beneficial features of valve-regulated lead-acid batteries made with compressed absorbent separators are apparent. Several of their attributes are considered. They offer higher specific power, improved cycling capability and greater vibration resistance, as well as more flexibility in packaging and installation. Optional circuits considered for dual-voltage supplies are separate batteries for engine starting (36 V) and low-power duties (12 V), and a universal battery (36 V) coupled to a d.c.-d.c. converter for a 12-V equipment. Battery designs, which can be made on commercially available equipment with similar manufacturing costs (per W h and per W) to current products, are discussed. The 36-V battery, made with 0.7 mm thick plates, in the dual-battery system weighs 18.5 kg and has a cold-cranking amp (CCA) rating of 790 A at -18°C to 21.6 V (1080 W kg -1 at a mean voltage of 25.4 V). The associated, cycleable 12-V battery, provides 1.5 kW h and weighs 24.6 kg. Thus, the combined battery weight is 43.1 kg. The single universal battery, with cycling capability, weighs 45.4 kg, has a CCA rating of 810 A (441 W kg -1 at a mean voltage of 24.7 V), and when connected to the d.c.-d.c. converter at 75% efficiency provides a low-power capacity of 1.5 kW h.

Removal of sulfuric acid mist from lead-acid battery plants by coal fly ash-based sorbents.

PubMed

Shu, Yuehong; Wei, Xiangyu; Fang, Yu; Lan, Bingyan; Chen, Hongyu

2015-04-09

Sorbents from coal fly ash (CFA) activated by NaOH, CaO and H2O were prepared for H2SO4 mist removal from lead-acid battery plants. The effects of parameters including temperature, time, the ratios of CFA/activator and water/solid during sorbent preparation were investigated. It is found that the synthesized sorbents exhibit much higher removal capacity for H2SO4 mist when compared with that of raw coal fly ash and CaO except for H2O activated sorbent and this sorbent was hence excluded from the study because of its low capacity. The H2SO4 mist removal efficiency increases with the increasing of preparation time length and temperature. In addition, the ratios of CFA/activator and water/solid also impact the removal efficiency, and the optimum preparation conditions are identified as: a water/solid ratio of 10:1 at 120 °C for 10h, a CFA:CaO weight ratio of 10:1, and a NaOH solution concentration of 3 mol/L. The formation of rough surface structure and an increased surface area after NaOH/CaO activation favor the sorption of H2SO4 mist and possible sorption mechanisms might be electrostatic attractions and chemical precipitation between the surface of sorbents and H2SO4 mist. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Aortic valve repair leads to a low incidence of valve-related complications.

PubMed

Aicher, Diana; Fries, Roland; Rodionycheva, Svetlana; Schmidt, Kathrin; Langer, Frank; Schäfers, Hans-Joachim

2010-01-01

Aortic valve replacement for aortic regurgitation (AR) has been established as a standard treatment but implies prosthesis-related complications. Aortic valve repair is an alternative approach, but its mid- to long-term results still need to be defined. Over a 12-year period, 640 patients underwent aortic valve repair for regurgitation of a unicuspid (n=21), bicuspid (n=205), tricuspid (n=411) or quadricuspid (n=3) aortic valve. The mechanism of regurgitation involved prolapse (n=469) or retraction (n=20) of the cusps, and dilatation of the root (n=323) or combined pathologies. Treatment consisted of cusp repair (n=529), root repair (n=323) or a combination of both (n=208). The patients were followed clinically and echocardiographically; follow-up was complete in 98.5% (cumulative follow-up: 3035 patient years). Hospital mortality was 3.4% in the total patient cohort and 0.8% for isolated aortic valve repair. The incidences of thrombo-embolism (0.2% per patient per year) and endocarditis (0.16%per patient per year) were low. Freedom from re-operation at 5 and 10 years was 88% and 81% in bicuspid and 97% and 93% in tricuspid aortic valves (p=0.0013). At re-operation, 13 out of 36 valves could be re-repaired. Freedom from valve replacement was 95% and 90% in bicuspid and 97% and 94% in tricuspid aortic valves (p=0.36). Freedom from all valve-related complications at 10 years was 88%. Reconstructive surgery of the aortic valve is feasible with low mortality in many individuals with aortic regurgitation. Freedom from valve-related complications after valve repair seems superior compared to available data on standard aortic valve replacement. Copyright 2009 European Association for Cardio-Thoracic Surgery. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Survey of mercury, cadmium and lead content of household batteries.

PubMed

Recknagel, Sebastian; Radant, Hendrik; Kohlmeyer, Regina

2014-01-01

The objective of this work was to provide updated information on the development of the potential impact of heavy metal containing batteries on municipal waste and battery recycling processes following transposition of the new EU Batteries Directive 2006/66/EC. A representative sample of 146 different types of commercially available dry and button cells as well as lithium-ion accumulators for mobile phones were analysed for their mercury (Hg)-, cadmium (Cd)- and lead (Pb)-contents. The methods used for preparing the cells and analysing the heavy metals Hg, Cd, and Pb were either developed during a former study or newly developed. Several batteries contained higher mass fractions of mercury or cadmium than the EU limits. Only half of the batteries with mercury and/or lead fractions above the marking thresholds were labelled. Alkaline-manganese mono-cells and Li-ion accumulators, on average, contained the lowest heavy metal concentrations, while zinc-carbon batteries, on average, contained the highest levels. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Requirements for future automotive batteries - a snapshot

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Karden, Eckhard; Shinn, Paul; Bostock, Paul; Cunningham, James; Schoultz, Evan; Kok, Daniel

Introduction of new fuel economy, performance, safety, and comfort features in future automobiles will bring up many new, power-hungry electrical systems. As a consequence, demands on automotive batteries will grow substantially, e.g. regarding reliability, energy throughput (shallow-cycle life), charge acceptance, and high-rate partial state-of-charge (HRPSOC) operation. As higher voltage levels are mostly not an economically feasible alternative for the short term, the existing 14 V electrical system will have to fulfil these new demands, utilizing advanced 12 V energy storage devices. The well-established lead-acid battery technology is expected to keep playing a key role in this application. Compared to traditional starting-lighting-ignition (SLI) batteries, significant technological progress has been achieved or can be expected, which improve both performance and service life. System integration of the storage device into the vehicle will become increasingly important. Battery monitoring systems (BMS) are expected to become a commodity, penetrating the automotive volume market from both highly equipped premium cars and dedicated fuel-economy vehicles (e.g. stop/start). Battery monitoring systems will allow for more aggressive battery operating strategies, at the same time improving the reliability of the power supply system. Where a single lead-acid battery cannot fulfil the increasing demands, dual-storage systems may form a cost-efficient extension. They consist either of two lead-acid batteries or of a lead-acid battery plus another storage device.

Survey of mercury, cadmium and lead content of household batteries

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Recknagel, Sebastian, E-mail: sebastian.recknagel@bam.de; Radant, Hendrik; Kohlmeyer, Regina

2014-01-15

Highlights: • A well selected sample of 146 batteries was analysed for its heavy metals content. • A comparison was made between heavy metals contents in batteries in 2006 and 2011. • No significant change after implementation of the new EU Batteries Directive. • Severe differences in heavy metal contents were found in different battery-types. - Abstract: The objective of this work was to provide updated information on the development of the potential impact of heavy metal containing batteries on municipal waste and battery recycling processes following transposition of the new EU Batteries Directive 2006/66/EC. A representative sample of 146more » different types of commercially available dry and button cells as well as lithium-ion accumulators for mobile phones were analysed for their mercury (Hg)-, cadmium (Cd)- and lead (Pb)-contents. The methods used for preparing the cells and analysing the heavy metals Hg, Cd, and Pb were either developed during a former study or newly developed. Several batteries contained higher mass fractions of mercury or cadmium than the EU limits. Only half of the batteries with mercury and/or lead fractions above the marking thresholds were labelled. Alkaline–manganese mono-cells and Li-ion accumulators, on average, contained the lowest heavy metal concentrations, while zinc–carbon batteries, on average, contained the highest levels.« less

Development of a VRLA battery with improved separators, and a charge controller, for low cost photovoltaic and wind powered installations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fernandez, M.; Ruddell, A. J.; Vast, N.; Esteban, J.; Estela, F.

There are many applications and uses for which it is more advantageous to use solar installations than to extend the electrical network and connect to it. This kind of applications are numerous covering from isolated houses to telephone repeaters and the like. These kind of applications share some common characteristics like being located in remote not easy accessible areas, require relatively low power for operation, and being difficult to maintain. Up to now the use of photovoltaic systems, no matter the impressive growth they are experimenting, suffer from some drawbacks, mainly related with the life expectations and reliability of such systems, and as a consequence of the cost of these systems, when calculated on a lifetime basis. To try to contribute to solve these problems, a project partially founded by the European Commission, has been carried out, with the main objective of increasing the life of these systems, and consequently to make them more attractive from the point of view of cost on a lifetime basis for consumers. Presently, the life of PV systems is limited by its weakest component, the battery. Battery failure modes in PV applications, are related with well known phenomena like corrosion, but also due to the special nature of this installations, with other factors like corrosion and growth in the upper part of the group, induced by the development of acid stratification inside the battery, with the more prone standard flooded types now in major use, and to a lesser extent the new valve regulated lead acid (VRLA) types beginning to be used. The main objectives of this project, were: to develop a new glass microfibre separator material, capable of minimizing acid stratification inside the battery. To develop a new VRLA battery, with a life duration of 800 cycles on cycling at 60% DOD and partial state of charge (PSOC) conditions. To develop a new charge regulator, that takes into account the condition of the battery in the near term, to modify its

Bipolar batteries based on Ebonex ® technology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Loyns, A. C.; Hill, A.; Ellis, K. G.; Partington, T. J.; Hill, J. M.

Continuing work by Atraverda on the production of a composite-laminate form of the Ebonex ® material, that can be cheaply formulated and manufactured to form substrate plates for bipolar lead-acid batteries, is described. Ebonex ® is the registered trade name of a range of titanium suboxide ceramic materials, typically Ti 4O 7 and Ti 5O 9, which combine electrical conductivity with high corrosion and oxidation resistance. Details of the structure of the composite, battery construction techniques and methods for filling and forming of batteries are discussed. In addition, lifetime and performance data obtained by Atraverda from laboratory bipolar lead-acid batteries and cells are presented. Battery production techniques for both conventional monopolar and bipolar batteries are reviewed. The findings indicate that substantial time and cost savings may be realised in the manufacture of bipolar batteries in comparison to conventional designs. This is due to the fewer processing steps required and more efficient formation. The results indicate that the use of Ebonex ® composite material as a bipolar substrate will provide lightweight and durable high-voltage lead-acid batteries suitable for a wide range of applications including advanced automotive, stationary power and portable equipment.

Storage battery market: profiles and trade opportunities

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stonfer, D.

1985-04-01

The export market for domestically produced storage batteries is a modest one, typically averaging 6 to 7% of domestic industry shipments. Exports in 1984 totalled about $167 million. Canada and Mexico were the largest export markets for US storage batteries in 1984, accounting for slightly more than half of the total. The United Kingdom, Saudi Arabia, and the Netherlands round out the top five export markets. Combined, these five markets accounted for two-thirds of all US exports of storage batteries in 1984. On a regional basis, the North American (Canada), Central American, and European markets accounted for three-quarters of total storage battery exports. Lead-acid batteries accounted for 42% of total battery exports. Battery parts followed lead-acid batteries with a 29% share. Nicad batteries accounted for 16% of the total while other batteries accounted for 13%.

Lead exposure from battery recycling in Indonesia.

PubMed

Haryanto, Budi

2016-03-01

In Indonesia, more than 200 illegal used lead acid battery (ULAB) smelters are currently operating. Only a few health studies support the finding of lead-related symptoms and diseases among populations living near the smelters. To assess the blood lead levels (BLLs) and potential health impacts among the population surrounding ULAB recycling smelters, we evaluated health effects reported from 2003 to 2013, conducted focus group discussions with lead smelter owner/workers and a group of 35 female partners of smelter owners or workers not actively engaged in smelter work, and retook and measured BLLs. It was found that many children in the areas were having difficulty achieving high grades at school and having stunting or other problems with physical development. The average mean of BLLs increased by almost double in 2015, compared with in 2011. The risk of having hypertension, interference in the ability to make red blood cells in females occurred among 24% of respondents; Elevated blood pressure, hearing loss, and interference in the ability to make red bloods cell occurred in 20% of males; Kidney damage, infertility in male, nerve problems, including decreased sensation and decreased ability to move quickly occurred in 13%; Decreased ability to make red blood cells (20%), and; Frank anemia, decreased life-span, coma/seizures were experienced by 22%. The populations living in areas surrounding ULAB smelters are experiencing severe chronic health problems. It is recommended that the smelters must be moved and placed far away from the municipality.

Regulatory trends in the battery industry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

McColl, K. G.

1994-02-01

The scope of regulations in the battery industry is extensive and also complex. In the future, regulations will become more demanding and will encompass issues not currently considered. Increased focus on environmental issues by government bodies, environmental groups, local communities will result in more strict compliance standards. The USA is currently leading the world's battery industries in the scope and compliance level of regulations. By studying trends in the USA, the rest of the battery industry can prepare itself for the future operating environment. This paper reviews the most critical areas of air pollution, blood-lead levels and recycling. The paper concludes that the battery industry must adopt a culture of exceeding current compliance standards.

Improving human health outcomes with a low-cost intervention to reduce exposures from lead acid battery recycling: Dong Mai, Vietnam.

PubMed

Ericson, Bret; Duong, Thi To; Keith, John; Nguyen, Trong Cuu; Havens, Deborah; Daniell, William; Karr, Catherine J; Ngoc Hai, Doan; Van Tung, Lo; Thi Nhi Ha, Tran; Wilson, Brian; Hanrahan, David; Croteau, Gerry; Patrick Taylor, Mark

2018-02-01

This study details the first comprehensive evaluation of the efficacy of a soil lead mitigation project in Dong Mai village, Vietnam. The village's population had been subject to severe lead poisoning for at least a decade as a result of informal Used Lead Acid Battery (ULAB) recycling. Between July 2013 to February 2015, Pure Earth and the Centre for Environment and Community Development (Hanoi, Vietnam) implemented a multi-faceted environmental and human health intervention. The intervention consisted of a series of institutional and low-cost engineering controls including the capping of lead contaminated surface soils, cleaning of home interiors, an education campaign and the construction of a work-clothes changing and bathing facility. The mitigation project resulted in substantial declines in human and environmental lead levels. Remediated home yard and garden areas decreased from an average surface soil concentration of 3940mg/kg to <100mg/kg. One year after the intervention, blood lead levels in children (<6 years old) were reduced by an average of 67%-from a median of 40.4μg/dL to 13.3μg/dL. The Dong Mai project resulted in significantly decreased environmental and biological lead levels demonstrating that low-cost, rapid and well-coordinated interventions could be readily applied elsewhere to significantly reduce preventable human health harm. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Calibration of sonic valves for the laminar flow control, leading-edge flight test

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Petley, D. H.; Alexander, W., Jr.; Wright, A. S., Jr.; Vallas, M.

1985-01-01

Sonic needle valves were calibrated to measure and control airflow in the suction system for the leading-edge flight test. The procedure and results for the calibration flow test of 4:41 flight valves are given. Mass-flow rates, which ranged from 0.001 to 0.012 lbm/sec, and maximum back pressure were measured for total temperatures from -30 F to 75 F and total pressures from 120 to 540 psf. Correlating equations are obtained for mass-flow rate as a function of total pressure, total temperature, and valve opening length. The most important aspect of flow measurement and control is found to be the measurement of valve opening length.

Battery-Charge-State Model

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Vivian, H. C.

1985-01-01

Charge-state model for lead/acid batteries proposed as part of effort to make equivalent of fuel gage for battery-powered vehicles. Models based on equations that approximate observable characteristics of battery electrochemistry. Uses linear equations, easier to simulate on computer, and gives smooth transitions between charge, discharge, and recuperation.

Bipolar battery construction

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Edwards, Dean B. (Inventor); Rippel, Wally E. (Inventor)

1981-01-01

A lightweight, bipolar battery construction for lead acid batteries in which a plurality of thin, rigid, biplates each comprise a graphite fiber thermoplastic composition in conductive relation to lead stripes plated on opposite flat surfaces of the plates, and wherein a plurality of nonconductive thermoplastic separator plates support resilient yieldable porous glass mats in which active material is carried, the biplates and separator plates with active material being contained and maintained in stacked assembly by axial compression of the stacked assembly. A method of assembling such a bipolar battery construction.

Mitral valve disease—morphology and mechanisms

PubMed Central

Levine, Robert A.; Hagége, Albert A.; Judge, Daniel P.; Padala, Muralidhar; Dal-Bianco, Jacob P.; Aikawa, Elena; Beaudoin, Jonathan; Bischoff, Joyce; Bouatia-Naji, Nabila; Bruneval, Patrick; Butcher, Jonathan T.; Carpentier, Alain; Chaput, Miguel; Chester, Adrian H.; Clusel, Catherine; Delling, Francesca N.; Dietz, Harry C.; Dina, Christian; Durst, Ronen; Fernandez-Friera, Leticia; Handschumacher, Mark D.; Jensen, Morten O.; Jeunemaitre, Xavier P.; Le Marec, Hervé; Le Tourneau, Thierry; Markwald, Roger R.; Mérot, Jean; Messas, Emmanuel; Milan, David P.; Neri, Tui; Norris, Russell A.; Peal, David; Perrocheau, Maelle; Probst, Vincent; Pucéat, Michael; Rosenthal, Nadia; Solis, Jorge; Schott, Jean-Jacques; Schwammenthal, Ehud; Slaugenhaupt, Susan A.; Song, Jae-Kwan; Yacoub, Magdi H.

2016-01-01

Mitral valve disease is a frequent cause of heart failure and death. Emerging evidence indicates that the mitral valve is not a passive structure, but—even in adult life—remains dynamic and accessible for treatment. This concept motivates efforts to reduce the clinical progression of mitral valve disease through early detection and modification of underlying mechanisms. Discoveries of genetic mutations causing mitral valve elongation and prolapse have revealed that growth factor signalling and cell migration pathways are regulated by structural molecules in ways that can be modified to limit progression from developmental defects to valve degeneration with clinical complications. Mitral valve enlargement can determine left ventricular outflow tract obstruction in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, and might be stimulated by potentially modifiable biological valvular–ventricular interactions. Mitral valve plasticity also allows adaptive growth in response to ventricular remodelling. However, adverse cellular and mechanobiological processes create relative leaflet deficiency in the ischaemic setting, leading to mitral regurgitation with increased heart failure and mortality. Our approach, which bridges clinicians and basic scientists, enables the correlation of observed disease with cellular and molecular mechanisms, leading to the discovery of new opportunities for improving the natural history of mitral valve disease. PMID:26483167

Spool-Valve Pressure-Difference Regulator

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Grasso, A. P.

1983-01-01

Valves maintain preset pressure difference between gas flows. Two spool valves connected by shaft move back and forth in response to changes in pressure in oxygen and hydrogen chambers. Spool-valve assembly acts to restore pressures to preset difference. By eliminating diaphragms, pressure exerted directly on external end of spool valve; however, forces and therefore sensitivity of assembly are reduced.

USABC Development of 12 Volt Battery for Start-Stop Application: Preprint

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Tataria, H.; Gross, O.; Bae, C.

Global automakers are accelerating the development of fuel efficient vehicles, as a part of meeting regional regulatory CO2 emissions requirements. The micro hybrid vehicles with auto start-stop functionality are considered economical solutions for the stringent European regulations. Flooded lead acid batteries were initially considered the most economical solution for idle-stop systems. However, the dynamic charge acceptance (DCA) at lower state-of-charge (SOC) was limiting the life of the batteries. While improved lead-acid batteries with AGM and VRLA features have improved battery longevity, they do not last the life of the vehicle. The United States Advanced Battery Consortium (or USABC, a consortiummore » of GM, Ford, and Chrysler) analyzed energy storage needs for a micro hybrid automobile with start-stop capability, and with a single power source. USABC has analyzed the start-stop behaviors of many drivers and has developed the requirements for the start-stop batteries (Table 3). The testing procedures to validate the performance and longevity were standardized and published. The guideline for the cost estimates calculations have also been provided, in order to determine the value of the newly developed modules. The analysis effort resulted in a set of requirements which will help the battery manufacturers to develop a module to meet the automotive Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM) micro hybrid vehicle requirements. Battery developers were invited to submit development proposals and two proposals were selected for 50% cost share with USABC/DOE.« less

A Pulsed Power System Design Using Lithium-ion Batteries and One Charger per Battery

DTIC Science & Technology

2009-12-01

zinc-bromine and vanadium redox batteries • NAS: high-temperature sodium batteries • EDLC: Electric Double-Layer Capacitors • SMES...terminology used in this figure. • Conventional: lead-acid, nickel-cadmium, and nickel-metal hydride batteries . • Lithium: lithium ion batteries . • Flow ...than the second stage due to less current flowing to the battery [5], [7], [8], [9]. Figure 4 shows typical current, voltage, and capacity curves

3D-printed lab-on-valve for fluorescent determination of cadmium and lead in water.

PubMed

Mattio, Elodie; Robert-Peillard, Fabien; Vassalo, Laurent; Branger, Catherine; Margaillan, André; Brach-Papa, Christophe; Knoery, Joël; Boudenne, Jean-Luc; Coulomb, Bruno

2018-06-01

In recent years, the development of 3D printing in flow analysis has allowed the creation of new systems with various applications. Up to now, 3D printing was mainly used for the manufacture of small units such as flow detection cells, preconcentration units or mixing systems. In the present study, a new 3D printed lab-on-valve system was developed to selectively quantify lead and cadmium in water. Different technologies were compared for lab-on-valve 3D printing. Printed test units have shown that stereolithography or digital light processing are satisfactory techniques for creating complex lab-on-valve units. The lab-on-valve system was composed of two columns, eight peripheral ports and a central port, and a coil integrating baffles to increase mixing possibilities. A selective extraction of lead was first carried out by TrisKem Pb™ Resin column. Then, cadmium not retained on the first column was extracted on a second column of Amberlite® IR 120 resin. In a following step, lead and cadmium were eluted with ammonium oxalate and potassium iodide, respectively. Finally, the two metals were sequentially detected by the same Rhod-5N™ fluorescent reagent. This 3D printed lab-on-valve flow system allowed us to quantify lead and cadmium with a linear response from 0.2 to 15 µg L -1 and detection limits of 0.17 and 0.20 µg L -1 for lead and cadmium, respectively, which seems adapted for natural water analysis. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

The hydrogen economy: a threat or an opportunity for lead-acid batteries?

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rand, D. A. J.; Dell, R. M.

There is mounting concern over the sustainability of global energy supplies. Among the key drivers are: (i) global warming, ocean surface acidification and air pollution, which imply the need to control and reduce anthropogenic emissions of greenhouse gases, especially emissions from transportation and thermal power stations; (ii) the diminishing reserves of oil and natural gas; (iii) the need for energy security adapted to each country, such as decreasing the dependence on fossil fuel imports (in particular, the vulnerability to volatile oil prices) from regions where there is political or economic instability; (iv) the expected growth in world population with the ever-increasing aspiration for an improved standard-of-living for all, especially in developing and poor nations. Hydrogen is being promoted world-wide as a total panacea for energy problems. As a versatile carrier for storing and transporting energy from any one of a myriad of sources to an electricity generator, it is argued that hydrogen will eventually replace, or at least greatly reduce, the reliance on fossil fuels. Not unexpectedly, the building of a 'hydrogen economy' presents great scientific and technological challenges in production, delivery, storage, conversion, and end-use. In addition, there are many policy, regulatory, economic, financial, investment, environmental and safety questions to be addressed. Notwithstanding these obstacles, it is indeed plausible that hydrogen will become increasingly deployed and will compete with traditional systems of energy storage and supply. Moreover, the case for hydrogen will be greatly strengthened if fuel cells, which are the key enabling technology, become more reliable, more durable, and less expensive. This paper examines the prospects for hydrogen as a universal energy-provider and considers the impact that its introduction might have on the present deployment of lead-acid batteries in mobile, stationary and road transportation applications.

Solar bus regulator and battery charger for IMP's H, I, and J

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Paulkovich, J.

1972-01-01

Interplanetary Monitoring Probe (IMP) spacecrafts H, I, and J utilize a direct energy transfer (DET) type of power system operating from a solar array source. A shunt type of regulator prevents the bus voltage from exceeding a preset voltage level. The power system utilizes a single differential amplifier with dual outputs to control the battery charge/shunt regulator and the discharge regulator. A two-voltage level, current limited, series charger and a current sensor control battery state of charge of the silver-cadmium battery pack. Premature termination of the battery charge is prevented by a power available gate that also initiates charge current to the battery upon availability of excess power.

Novel technique to ensure battery reliability in 42-V PowerNets for new-generation automobiles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lam, L. T.; Haigh, N. P.; Phyland, C. G.; Huynh, T. D.

The proposed 42-V PowerNet in automobiles requires the battery to provide a large number of shallow discharge-charge cycles at a high rate. High-rate discharge is necessary for engine cranking, while high-rate charge is associated with regenerative braking. The battery will therefore operate at these high rates in a partial-state-of-charge condition — 'HRPSoC duty'. Under simulated HRPSoC duty, it is found that the valve-regulated lead-acid (VRLA) battery fails prematurely due to the progressive accumulation of lead sulfate mainly on the surfaces of the negative plates. This is because the lead sulfate layer cannot be converted efficiently back to sponge lead during charging either from the engine or from the regenerative braking. Eventually, this layer of lead sulfate develops to such extent that the effective surface area of the plate is reduced markedly and the plate can no longer deliver the high-cranking current demanded by the automobile. The objective of this study is to develop and optimize a pulse-generation technique to minimize the development of lead sulfate layers on negative plates of VRLA batteries subjected to HRPSoC duty. The technique involves the application of sets of charging pulses of different frequency. It is found that the cycle-life performance of VRLA batteries is enhanced markedly when d.c. pulses of high frequency are used. For example, battery durability is raised from ˜10 600 cycles (no pulses) to 32 000 cycles with pulses of high frequency. Two key factors contribute to this improvement. The first factor is localization of the charging current on the surfaces of the plates — the higher the frequency, the greater is the amount of current concentrated on the plate surface. This phenomenon is known as the 'skin effect' as only the outer 'skin' of the plate is effectively carrying the current. The second factor is delivery of sufficient charge to the Faradaic resistance of the plate to compensate for the energy loss to inductance

76 FR 69733 - Proposed CERCLA Administrative Cost Recovery Settlement; Tracy Lead Battery Site, Tracy, MN

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-11-09

... Lead Battery Site in Tracy, Minnesota with the following settling parties: Day Side Recycling... Settlement; Tracy Lead Battery Site, Tracy, MN AGENCY: Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). ACTION: Notice... Tracy Lead Battery Site and EPA Docket No. CERCLA-05-2012-0001 and should be addressed to Steven P...

An air-pressure-free elastomeric valve for integrated nucleic acid analysis by capillary electrophoresis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jung, Wooseok; Barrett, Matthew; Brooks, Carla; Rivera, Andrew; Birdsell, Dawn N.; Wagner, David M.; Zenhausern, Frederic

2015-12-01

We present a new elastomeric valve for integrated nucleic acid analysis by capillary electrophoresis. The valve functions include metering to capture a designated volume of biological sample into a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) chamber, sealing to preserve the sample during PCR cycling, and transfer of the PCR-products and on-chip formamide post-processing for the analysis of DNA fragments by capillary gel electrophoresis. This new valve differs from prior art polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) valves in that the valve is not actuated externally by air-pressure or vacuum so that it simplifies a DNA analysis system by eliminating the need for an air-pressure or vacuum source, and off-cartridge solenoid valves, control circuit boards and software. Instead, the new valve is actuated by a thermal cycling peltier assembly integrated within the hardware instrument that tightly comes in contact with a microfluidic cartridge for thermal activation during PCR, so that it spontaneously closes the valve without an additional actuator system. The valve has bumps in the designated locations so that it has a self-alignment that does not require precise alignment of a valve actuator. Moreover, the thickness of the new valve is around 600 μm with an additional bump height of 400 μm so that it is easy to handle and very feasible to fabricate by injection molding compared to other PDMS valves whose thicknesses are around 30-100 μm. The new valve provided over 95% of metering performance in filling the fixed volume of the PCR chamber, preserved over 97% of the sample volume during PCR, and showed very comparable capillary electrophoresis peak heights to the benchtop assay tube controls with very consistent transfer volume of the PCR-product and on-chip formamide. The new valve can perform a core function for integrated nucleic acid analysis by capillary electrophoresis.

Acquired tricuspid valve stenosis associated with two ventricular endocardial pacing leads in a dog.

PubMed

Tompkins, Emily; Dulake, Michelle I; Ghaffari, Shadie; Nakamura, Reid K

2015-01-01

Acquired tricuspid valve stenosis (TVS) is a rare complication of endocardial pacing lead implantation in humans that has only been described once previously in the veterinary literature in a dog with excessive lead redundancy. A 12 yr old terrier presented with right-sided congestive heart failure 6 mo after implantation of a second ventricular endocardial pacing lead. The second lead was placed due to malfunction of the first lead, which demonstrated abnormally low impedance. Transthoracic echocardiography identified hyperechoic tissue associated with the pacing leads as they crossed the tricuspid valve annulus as well as a stenotic tricuspid inflow pattern via spectral Doppler interrogation. Medical management was ultimately unsuccessful and the dog was euthanized 6 wk after TVS was diagnosed. The authors report the first canine case of acquired TVS associated with two ventricular endocardial pacing leads.

Response of lead-acid batteries to chopper-controlled discharge: Preliminary results

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cataldo, R. L.

1978-01-01

The preliminary results of simulated electric vehicle, chopper, speed controller discharge of a battery show energy output losses up to 25 percent compared to constant current discharges at the same average discharge current of 100 amperes. These energy losses are manifested as temperature rises during discharge, amounting to a two-fold increase for a 400-ampere pulse compared to the constant current case. Because of the potentially large energy inefficiency, the results suggest that electric vehicle battery/speed controller interaction must be carefully considered in vehicle design.

Battery Vent Mechanism And Method

DOEpatents

Ching, Larry K. W.

2000-02-15

Disclosed herein is a venting mechanism for a battery. The venting mechanism includes a battery vent structure which is located on the battery cover and may be integrally formed therewith. The venting mechanism includes an opening extending through the battery cover such that the opening communicates with a plurality of battery cells located within the battery case. The venting mechanism also includes a vent manifold which attaches to the battery vent structure. The vent manifold includes a first opening which communicates with the battery vent structure opening and second and third openings which allow the vent manifold to be connected to two separate conduits. In this manner, a plurality of batteries may be interconnected for venting purposes, thus eliminating the need to provide separate vent lines for each battery. The vent manifold may be attached to the battery vent structure by a spin-welding technique. To facilitate this technique, the vent manifold may be provided with a flange portion which fits into a corresponding groove portion on the battery vent structure. The vent manifold includes an internal chamber which is large enough to completely house a conventional battery flame arrester and overpressure safety valve. In this manner, the vent manifold, when installed, lessens the likelihood of tampering with the flame arrester and safety valve.

Battery venting system and method

DOEpatents

Casale, Thomas J.; Ching, Larry K. W.; Baer, Jose T.; Swan, David H.

1999-01-05

Disclosed herein is a venting mechanism for a battery. The venting mechanism includes a battery vent structure which is located on the battery cover and may be integrally formed therewith. The venting mechanism includes an opening extending through the battery cover such that the opening communicates with a plurality of battery cells located within the battery case. The venting mechanism also includes a vent manifold which attaches to the battery vent structure. The vent manifold includes a first opening which communicates with the battery vent structure opening and second and third openings which allow the vent manifold to be connected to two separate conduits. In this manner, a plurality of batteries may be interconnected for venting purposes, thus eliminating the need to provide separate vent lines for each battery. The vent manifold may be attached to the battery vent structure by a spin-welding technique. To facilitate this technique, the vent manifold may be provided with a flange portion which fits into a corresponding groove portion on the battery vent structure. The vent manifold includes an internal chamber which is large enough to completely house a conventional battery flame arrester and overpressure safety valve. In this manner, the vent manifold, when installed, lessens the likelihood of tampering with the flame arrester and safety valve.

Battery Technology Stores Clean Energy

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

2008-01-01

Headquartered in Fremont, California, Deeya Energy Inc. is now bringing its flow batteries to commercial customers around the world after working with former Marshall Space Flight Center scientist, Lawrence Thaller. Deeya's liquid-cell batteries have higher power capability than Thaller's original design, are less expensive than lead-acid batteries, are a clean energy alternative, and are 10 to 20 times less expensive than nickel-metal hydride batteries, lithium-ion batteries, and fuel cell options.

Performance characteristics of an electric vehicle lead-acid battery pack at elevated temperatures

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chapman, P.

1982-01-01

Discharge testing data electric car battery pack over initial electrolyte temperature variations between 27 and 55 C are presented. The tests were conducted under laboratory conditions and then compared to detailed electric vehicle simulation models. Battery discharge capacity increased with temperature for constant current discharges, and battery energy capacity increased with temperature for constant power discharges. Dynamometer tests of the electric test vehicle showed an increase in range of 25% for the higher electrolyte temperature.

The environmental outlook for lead in Europe

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Wilson, D.N.

1993-05-01

The Regulation being developed by the European Commission to comply with the Basel Convention on the transboundary movement of waste and how this will impact on trade with other regions is described. The specific question of lead-acid battery recycling and how this is being pursued in Europe using a very different approach to the BCI model which has proved so successful in the US is addressed.

Batteries for storage of wind-generated energy

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Schwartz, H. J.

1973-01-01

Cost effectiveness characteristics of conventional-, metal gas-, and high energy alkali metal-batteries for wind generated energy storage are considered. A lead-acid battery with a power density of 20 to 30 watt/hours per pound is good for about 1500 charge-discharge cycles at a cost of about $80 per kilowatt hour. A zinc-chlorine battery that stores chlorine as solid chlorine hydrate at temperatures below 10 C eliminates the need to handle gaseous chlorine; its raw material cost are low and inexpensive carbon can be used for the chlorine electrode. This system has the best chance to replace lead-acid. Exotic alkali metal batteries are deemed too costly at the present stage of development.

Laboratory testing of the (Japan Storage Battery) traction batteries GS E75A and GS E150H

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Not Available

This report describes the testing of the GS E75A and GS E150H flooded lead-acid 12-volt traction batteries and compares the selected batteries to U.S.-made electric vehicle batteries. The results and conclusions of the testing are presented.

74. LIQUID NITROGEN TANK, REGULATOR VALVES, AND PRESSURE GAUGES FOR ...

Library of Congress Historic Buildings Survey, Historic Engineering Record, Historic Landscapes Survey

74. LIQUID NITROGEN TANK, REGULATOR VALVES, AND PRESSURE GAUGES FOR LIQUID NITROGEN PUMPING STATION - Vandenberg Air Force Base, Space Launch Complex 3, Launch Pad 3 East, Napa & Alden Roads, Lompoc, Santa Barbara County, CA

Lessons learned in acquiring new regulations for shipping advanced electric vehicle batteries

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Henriksen, Gary; Hammel, Carol; Altemos, Edward A.

1994-12-01

In 1990, the Electric and Hybrid Propulsion Division of the US Department of Energy established its ad hoc EV Battery Readiness Working Group to identify regulatory barriers to the commercialization of advanced EV battery technologies and facilitate the removal of these barriers. A Shipping Sub-Working Group (SSWG) was formed to address the regulatory issues associated with the domestic and international shipment of these new battery technologies. The SSWG invites major industrial developers of advanced battery technologies to join as members and work closely with appropriate domestic and international regulatory authorities to develop suitable regulations and procedures for the safe transport of these new battery technologies. This paper describes the domestic and international regulatory processes for the transport of dangerous goods; reviews the status of shipping regulations for sodium-beta and lithium batteries; and delineates the lessons learned to date in this process. The sodium-beta battery family was the first category of advanced EV batteries to be addressed by the SSWG. It includes both sodium/sulfur and sodium/metal chloride batteries. Their efforts led to the establishment of a UN number (UN 3292) in the UN Recommendations, for cold cells and batteries, and establishment of a US Department of Transportation general exemption (DOT-E-10917) covering cold and hot batteries, as well as cold cells. The lessons learned for sodium-beta batteries, over the period of 1990--94, are now being applied to the development of regulations for shipping a new generation of lithium battery technologies (lithium-polymer and lithium-aluminum/iron sulfide batteries).

Exide eyeing technology for high-powered battery

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

NONE

1999-11-01

Exide Corp. said recently it may soon produce a graphite battery with more than three times the power of today's most advanced production batteries--but with half their weight, far smaller size, and only a third the cost. The Reading-based Exide, the world's largest maker of lead-acid batteries, said it has preliminarily agreed to pay $20 million for a controlling interest in Lion Compact Energy, a privately held company that's researching dual-graphite battery technology said to be cleaner cheaper and more efficient. Exide hopes to turn the technology into the products; it said initial applications include smaller battery-operated devices such asmore » cell phones, cameras, laptop computers, power tools and certain military equipment. Larger devices would follow, and could include wheel chairs, motorcycles, replacement for lead-acid batteries in cars and trucks and, potentially, all-electric vehicles.« less

Partial rupture of the tricuspid valve after extraction of permanent pacemaker leads: detection by transesophageal echocardiography.

PubMed

Assayag, P; Thuaire, C; Benamer, H; Sebbah, J; Leport, C; Brochet, E

1999-06-01

Traumatic lesions of the tricuspid valve complicating pacemaker lead extractions appear to be rare. We report two cases of partial rupture of the tricuspid valve, following apparently uneventful extraction of permanent ventricular leads, resulting in severe regurgitation and, in one case, chronic heart failure. TEE was useful to identify the traumatic mechanism of tricuspid regurgitation (TR) and the extent of valvular lesions in these patients. Such etiology should be suspected, and TEE performed, in patients developing TR or heart failure late after lead extraction.

Battery venting system and method

DOEpatents

Casale, T.J.; Ching, L.K.W.; Baer, J.T.; Swan, D.H.

1999-01-05

Disclosed herein is a venting mechanism for a battery. The venting mechanism includes a battery vent structure which is located on the battery cover and may be integrally formed therewith. The venting mechanism includes an opening extending through the battery cover such that the opening communicates with a plurality of battery cells located within the battery case. The venting mechanism also includes a vent manifold which attaches to the battery vent structure. The vent manifold includes a first opening which communicates with the battery vent structure opening and second and third openings which allow the vent manifold to be connected to two separate conduits. In this manner, a plurality of batteries may be interconnected for venting purposes, thus eliminating the need to provide separate vent lines for each battery. The vent manifold may be attached to the battery vent structure by a spin-welding technique. To facilitate this technique, the vent manifold may be provided with a flange portion which fits into a corresponding groove portion on the battery vent structure. The vent manifold includes an internal chamber which is large enough to completely house a conventional battery flame arrester and overpressure safety valve. In this manner, the vent manifold, when installed, lessens the likelihood of tampering with the flame arrester and safety valve. 8 figs.

Tuning the Perfluorosulfonic Acid Membrane Morphology for Vanadium Redox-Flow Batteries.

PubMed

Vijayakumar, M; Luo, Qingtao; Lloyd, Ralph; Nie, Zimin; Wei, Xiaoliang; Li, Bin; Sprenkle, Vincent; Londono, J-David; Unlu, Murat; Wang, Wei

2016-12-21

The microstructure of perfluorinated sulfonic acid proton-exchange membranes such as Nafion significantly affects their transport properties and performance in a vanadium redox-flow battery (VRB). In this work, Nafion membranes with various equivalent weights ranging from 1000 to 1500 are prepared and the morphology-property-performance relationship is investigated. NMR and small-angle X-ray scattering studies revealed their composition and morphology variances, which lead to major differences in key transport properties related to proton conduction and vanadium-ion permeation. Their performances are further characterized as VRB membranes. On the basis of this understanding, a new perfluorosulfonic acid membrane is designed with optimal pore geometry and thickness, leading to higher ion selectivity and lower cost compared with the widely used Nafion 115. Excellent VRB single-cell performance (89.3% energy efficiency at 50 mA·cm -2 ) was achieved along with a stable cyclical capacity over prolonged cycling.

The UltraBattery-A new battery design for a new beginning in hybrid electric vehicle energy storage

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cooper, A.; Furakawa, J.; Lam, L.; Kellaway, M.

The UltraBattery, developed by CSIRO Energy Technology in Australia, is a hybrid energy storage device which combines an asymmetric super-capacitor and a lead-acid battery in single unit cells. This takes the best from both technologies without the need for extra, expensive electronic controls. The capacitor enhances the power and lifespan of the lead-acid battery as it acts as a buffer during high-rate discharging and charging, thus enabling it to provide and absorb charge rapidly during vehicle acceleration and braking. The initial performance of the prototype UltraBatteries was evaluated according to the US FreedomCAR targets and was shown to meet or exceed these in terms of power, available energy, cold cranking and self-discharge set for both minimum and maximum power-assist hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs). Other laboratory cycling tests showed a fourfold improvement over previous state-of-the-art lead-acid batteries under the RHOLAB test profile and better life than commercial nickel/metal hydride (NiMH) cells used in a Honda Insight when tested under the EUCAR HEV profile. As a result of this work, a set of twelve 12 V modules was built by The Furukawa Battery Co., Ltd. in Japan and were fitted into a Honda Insight instead of the NiMH battery by Provector Ltd. The battery pack was fitted with full monitoring and control capabilities and the car was tested at Millbrook Proving Ground under a General Motors road test simulation cycle for an initial target of 50 000 miles which was extended to 100 000 miles. This was completed on 15th January 2008 without any battery problems. Furthermore, the whole test was completed without the need for any conditioning or equalisation of the battery pack.

Miniature piezo electric vacuum inlet valve

DOEpatents

Keville, Robert F.; Dietrich, Daniel D.

1998-03-24

A miniature piezo electric vacuum inlet valve having a fast pulse rate and is battery operated with variable flow capability. The low power (<1.6 watts), high pulse rate (<2 milliseconds), variable flow inlet valve is utilized for mass spectroscopic applications or other applications where pulsed or continuous flow conditions are needed. The inlet valve also has a very minimal dead volume of less than 0.01 std/cc. The valve can utilize, for example, a 12 Vdc input/750 Vdc, 3 mA output power supply compared to conventional piezo electric valves which require preloading of the crystal drive mechanism and 120 Vac, thus the valve of the present invention is smaller by a factor of three.

Advancing electric-vehicle development with pure-lead-tin battery technology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

O'Brien, W. A.; Stickel, R. B.; May, G. J.

Electric-vehicle (EV) development continues to make solid progress towards extending vehicle range, reliability and ease of use, aided significantly by technological advances in vehicle systems. There is, however, a widespread misconception that current battery technologies are not capable of meeting even the minimum user requirements that would launch EVs into daily use. Existing pure-lead-tin technology is moving EVs out of research laboratories and onto the streets, in daily side-by-side operation with vehicles powered by conventional gasoline and alternative fuels. This commercially available battery technology can provide traffic-compatible performance in a reliable and affordable manner, and can be used for either pure EVs or hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs). Independent results obtained when applying lead-tin batteries in highly abusive conditions, both electrically and environmentally, are presented. The test fleet of EVs is owned and operated by Arizona Public Service (APS), an electric utility in Phoenix, AZ, USA. System, charger and battery development will be described. This gives a single charge range of up to 184 km at a constant speed of 72 km h -1, and with suitable opportunity charging, a 320 km range in a normal 8 h working day.

Acute lead intoxication in a female battery worker: Diagnosis and management.

PubMed

Dounias, George; Rachiotis, George; Hadjichristodoulou, Christos

2010-07-07

Lead is a significant occupational and environmental hazard. Battery industry is one of the settings related to lead intoxication. Published information on the use of oral chelating agents for the treatment of anaemia in the context of acute lead intoxication is limited. The patient was a 33 year immigrant female worker in a battery manufacture for 3 months. She complained for malaise that has been developed over the past two weeks. Pallor of skin and conjunctiva was the only sign found in physical examination. The blood test on admission revealed normochromic anaemia. Endoscopic investigation of the gastrointestinal system was negative for bleeding. The bone marrow biopsy was unrevealing.At baseline no attention has been paid to patient's occupational history. Afterwards the patient's occupational history has been re-evaluated and she has been screened for lead intoxication. The increased levels of the lead related biomarkers of exposure and effect confirmed the diagnosis. The patient received an oral chelating agent and an improvement in clinical picture, and levels of haematological and lead related biochemical parameters have been recorded. No side effect and no rebound effect were observed. This case report emphasizes the importance of the occupational history in the context of the differential diagnosis. Moreover, this report indicates that lead remains a significant occupational hazard especially in the small scale battery industry.

Take-home lead exposure among children with relatives employed at a battery recycling facility - Puerto Rico, 2011.

PubMed

2012-11-30

The recycling of lead has increased during the past 20 years, with more workers and their families potentially being exposed to lead from recycling facilities, including facilities that recycle lead-acid batteries. During November 2010-May 2011, four voluntary blood lead screening clinics for children of employees of a battery recycling facility in Puerto Rico were conducted. A total of 227 persons from 78 families had blood lead tests. Among 68 children aged <6 years, 11 (16%) had confirmed blood lead levels (BLLs) ≥10 µg/dL, the BLL at which CDC recommended individual intervention to reduce BLLs in 2010, and 39 (57%) children aged <6 years had venous or capillary BLLs ≥5 µg/dL, the reference value for elevated BLLs in children established by CDC in 2012. To determine whether take-home lead exposure contributed to the children's BLLs of ≥10 µg/dL, vehicle and household environmental samples were collected and analyzed. Eighty-five percent of vehicle dust samples and 49% of home dust samples exceeded the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) level of concern of ≥40 µg/ft² (430.6 µg/m²) [corrected]. EPA began clean-up of employee homes and vehicles, focusing first on homes with children with BLLs ≥10 µg/dL. EPA also required that the company set up shower facilities, shoe washes, and clean changing areas at the battery recycling facility. Lastly, CDC assigned a case manager to provide education, environmental follow-up, and case management of all children with BLLs ≥5 µg/dL. On average, children's BLLs have decreased 9.9 µg/dL since being enrolled in case management.

Three-dimensional printed trileaflet valve conduits using biological hydrogels and human valve interstitial cells.

PubMed

Duan, B; Kapetanovic, E; Hockaday, L A; Butcher, J T

2014-05-01

Tissue engineering has great potential to provide a functional de novo living valve replacement, capable of integration with host tissue and growth. Among various valve conduit fabrication techniques, three-dimensional (3-D) bioprinting enables deposition of cells and hydrogels into 3-D constructs with anatomical geometry and heterogeneous mechanical properties. Successful translation of this approach, however, is constrained by the dearth of printable and biocompatible hydrogel materials. Furthermore, it is not known how human valve cells respond to these printed environments. In this study, 3-D printable formulations of hybrid hydrogels are developed, based on methacrylated hyaluronic acid (Me-HA) and methacrylated gelatin (Me-Gel), and used to bioprint heart valve conduits containing encapsulated human aortic valvular interstitial cells (HAVIC). Increasing Me-Gel concentration resulted in lower stiffness and higher viscosity, facilitated cell spreading, and better maintained HAVIC fibroblastic phenotype. Bioprinting accuracy was dependent upon the relative concentrations of Me-Gel and Me-HA, but when optimized enabled the fabrication of a trileaflet valve shape accurate to the original design. HAVIC encapsulated within bioprinted heart valves maintained high viability, and remodeled the initial matrix by depositing collagen and glyosaminoglycans. These findings represent the first rational design of bioprinted trileaflet valve hydrogels that regulate encapsulated human VIC behavior. The use of anatomically accurate living valve scaffolds through bioprinting may accelerate understanding of physiological valve cell interactions and progress towards de novo living valve replacements. Copyright © 2013 Acta Materialia Inc. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Response of lead-acid batteries to chopper-controlled discharge. [for electric vehicles

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cataldo, R. L.

1978-01-01

The results of tests on an electric vehicle battery, using a simulated electric vehicle chopper-speed controller, show energy output losses up to 25 percent compared to constant current discharges at the same average current of 100 A. However, an energy output increase of 22 percent is noticed at the 200 A average level and 44 percent increase at the 300 A level using pulse discharging. Because of these complex results, electric vehicle battery/speed controller interactions must be considered in vehicle design.

Zinc halogen battery electrolyte composition with lead additive

DOEpatents

Henriksen, Gary L.

1981-01-01

This disclosure relates to a zinc halogen battery electrolyte composition containing an additive providing improved zinc-on-zinc recyclability. The improved electrolyte composition involves the use of a lead additive to inhibit undesirable irregular plating and reduce nodular or dendritic growth on the electrode surface. The lead-containing electrolyte composition of the present invention appears to influence not only the morphology of the base plate zinc, but also the morphology of the zinc-on-zinc replate. In addition, such lead-containing electrolyte compositions appear to reduce hydrogen formation.

Deletion of CD73 in mice leads to aortic valve dysfunction.

PubMed

Zukowska, P; Kutryb-Zajac, B; Jasztal, A; Toczek, M; Zabielska, M; Borkowski, T; Khalpey, Z; Smolenski, R T; Slominska, E M

2017-06-01

Aortic stenosis is known to involve inflammation and thrombosis. Changes in activity of extracellular enzyme - ecto-5'-nucleotidase (referred also as CD73) can alter inflammatory and thrombotic responses. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of CD73 deletion in mice on development of aortic valve dysfunction and to compare it to the effect of high-fat diet. Four groups of mice (normal-diet Wild Type (WT), high-fat diet WT, normal diet CD73-/-, high-fat diet CD73-/-) were maintained for 15weeks followed by echocardiographic analysis of aortic valve function, measurement of aortic surface activities of nucleotide catabolism enzymes as well as alkaline phosphatase activity, mineral composition and histology of aortic valve leaflets. CD73-/- knock out led to an increase in peak aortic flow (1.06±0.26m/s) compared to WT (0.79±0.26m/s) indicating obstruction. Highest values of peak aortic flow (1.26±0.31m/s) were observed in high-fat diet CD73-/- mice. Histological analysis showed morphological changes in CD73-/- including thickening and accumulation of dark deposits, proved to be melanin. Concentrations of Ca 2+ , Mg 2+ and PO 4 3- in valve leaflets were elevated in CD73-/- mice. Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity was enhanced after ATP treatment and reduced after adenosine treatment in aortas incubated in osteogenic medium. AMP hydrolysis in CD73-/- was below 10% of WT. Activity of ecto-adenosine deaminase (eADA), responsible for adenosine deamination, in the CD73-/- was 40% lower when compared to WT. Deletion of CD73 in mice leads to aortic valve dysfunction similar to that induced by high-fat diet suggesting important role of this surface protein in maintaining heart valve integrity. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Miniature piezo electric vacuum inlet valve

DOEpatents

Keville, R.F.; Dietrich, D.D.

1998-03-24

A miniature piezo electric vacuum inlet valve having a fast pulse rate and is battery operated with variable flow capability is disclosed. The low power (<1.6 watts), high pulse rate (<2 milliseconds), variable flow inlet valve is utilized for mass spectroscopic applications or other applications where pulsed or continuous flow conditions are needed. The inlet valve also has a very minimal dead volume of less than 0.01 std/cc. The valve can utilize, for example, a 12 Vdc input/750 Vdc, 3 mA output power supply compared to conventional piezo electric valves which require preloading of the crystal drive mechanism and 120 Vac, thus the valve of the present invention is smaller by a factor of three. 6 figs.

Development and Testing of an UltraBattery-Equipped Honda Civic Hybrid

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Sally; Tyler Gray; Pattie Hovorka

2012-08-01

The UltraBattery Retrofit Project DP1.8 and Carbon Enriched Project C3, performed by ECOtality North America (ECOtality) and funded by the U.S. Department of Energy and the Advanced Lead Acid Battery Consortium (ALABC), are established to demonstrate the suitability of advanced lead battery technology in hybrid electrical vehicles (HEVs). A profile, termed the “Simulated Honda Civic HEV Profile” (SHCHEVP) has been developed in Project DP1.8 in order to provide reproducible laboratory evaluations of different battery types under real-world HEV conditions. The cycle is based on the Urban Dynamometer Driving Schedule and Highway Fuel Economy Test cycles and simulates operation of amore » battery pack in a Honda Civic HEV. One pass through the SHCHEVP takes 2,140 seconds and simulates 17.7 miles of driving. A complete nickel metal hydride (NiMH) battery pack was removed from a Honda Civic HEV and operated under SHCHEVP to validate the profile. The voltage behavior and energy balance of the battery during this operation was virtually the same as that displayed by the battery when in the Honda Civic operating on the dynamometer under the Urban Dynamometer Driving Schedule and Highway Fuel Economy Test cycles, thus confirming the efficacy of the simulated profile. An important objective of the project has been to benchmark the performance of the UltraBatteries manufactured by both Furukawa Battery Co., Ltd., Japan (Furakawa) and East Penn Manufacturing Co., Inc. (East Penn). Accordingly, UltraBattery packs from both Furakawa and East Penn have been characterized under a range of conditions. Resistance measurements and capacity tests at various rates show that both battery types are very similar in performance. Both technologies, as well as a standard lead-acid module (included for baseline data), were evaluated under a simple HEV screening test. Both Furakawa and East Penn UltraBattery packs operated for over 32,000 HEV cycles, with minimal loss in performance

Electrochemical behavior of negative electrode of lead-acid cells based on reticulated vitreous carbon carrier

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Czerwiński, A.; Obrębowski, S.; Kotowski, J.; Rogulski, Z.; Skowroński, J. M.; Krawczyk, P.; Rozmanowski, T.; Bajsert, M.; Przystałowski, M.; Buczkowska-Biniecka, M.; Jankowska, E.; Baraniak, M.

Reticulated vitreous carbon (RVC ®) and RVC ® plated with lead were investigated as carriers for the negative electrode of lead-acid cell. The RVC ® and Pb/RVC ® carriers were pasted with active paste (received from JENOX Ltd., Polish producer of lead-acid batteries) and prepared to be used in lead-acid cell. Comparative study of electrodes based on RVC ® and Pb/RVC ® has been done using constant-current charging/discharging, constant-potential discharging and cycling voltammetry measurements. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was employed to determine the morphology of the lead layer deposited on the RVC surface. Hybrid flooded single lead-acid cells containing one negative electrode, based on new type of carrier (RVC ® or Pb/RVC ®), sandwiched between two positive electrodes, based on the Pb-Ca grids, were assembled and subjected to electrochemical tests. It has been found that both materials, RVC ® and Pb/RVC ®, can be used as carriers of negative electrode, but the latter seems to have better influence on the discharge performance.

Loss of Axin2 results in impaired heart valve maturation and subsequent myxomatous valve disease.

PubMed

Hulin, Alexia; Moore, Vicky; James, Jeanne M; Yutzey, Katherine E

2017-01-01

Myxomatous valve disease (MVD) is the most common aetiology of primary mitral regurgitation. Recent studies suggest that defects in heart valve development can lead to heart valve disease in adults. Wnt/β-catenin signalling is active during heart valve development and has been reported in human MVD. The consequences of increased Wnt/β-catenin signalling due to Axin2 deficiency in postnatal valve remodelling and pathogenesis of MVD were determined. To investigate the role of Wnt/β-catenin signalling, we analysed heart valves from mice deficient in Axin2 (KO), a negative regulator of Wnt/β-catenin signalling. Axin2 KO mice display enlarged mitral and aortic valves (AoV) after birth with increased Wnt/β-catenin signalling and cell proliferation, whereas Sox9 expression and collagen deposition are decreased. At 2 months in Axin2 KO mice, the valve extracellular matrix (ECM) is stratified but distal AoV leaflets remain thickened and develop aortic insufficiency. Progressive myxomatous degeneration is apparent at 4 months with extensive ECM remodelling and focal aggrecan-rich areas, along with increased BMP signalling. Infiltration of inflammatory cells is also observed in Axin2 KO AoV prior to ECM remodelling. Overall, these features are consistent with the progression of human MVD. Finally, Axin2 expression is decreased and Wnt/β-catenin signalling is increased in myxomatous mitral valves in a murine model of Marfan syndrome, supporting the importance of Wnt/β-catenin signalling in the development of MVD. Altogether, these data indicate that Axin2 limits Wnt/β-catenin signalling after birth and allows proper heart valve maturation. Moreover, dysregulation of Wnt/β-catenin signalling resulting from loss of Axin2 leads to progressive MVD. Published on behalf of the European Society of Cardiology. All rights reserved. © The Author 2016. For Permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

A green lead hydrometallurgical process based on a hydrogen-lead oxide fuel cell.

PubMed

Pan, Junqing; Sun, Yanzhi; Li, Wei; Knight, James; Manthiram, Arumugam

2013-01-01

The automobile industry consumed 9 million metric tons of lead in 2012 for lead-acid batteries. Recycling lead from spent lead-acid batteries is not only related to the sustainable development of the lead industry, but also to the reduction of lead pollution in the environment. The existing lead pyrometallurgical processes have two main issues, toxic lead emission into the environment and high energy consumption; the developing hydrometallurgical processes have the disadvantages of high electricity consumption, use of toxic chemicals and severe corrosion of metallic components. Here we demonstrate a new green hydrometallurgical process to recover lead based on a hydrogen-lead oxide fuel cell. High-purity lead, along with electricity, is produced with only water as the by-product. It has a >99.5% lead yield, which is higher than that of the existing pyrometallurgical processes (95-97%). This greatly reduces lead pollution to the environment.

Integration and Control of a Battery Balancing System

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-12-01

2. Energy storage comparisons. From [2]. • Storage Technologies Pumped Storage CAES Flow Batteries: PSB VRB ZnBr Metal-Air NaS LHon Ni...Storage Technologies Pumped Storage CAES Flow Batteries: PSB VRB ZnBr Metal-Air NaS LHon Ni-Cd Other Advanced Batteries Lead-Acid

Serum uric acid level predicts adverse outcomes after myocardial revascularization or cardiac valve surgery.

PubMed

Lazzeroni, Davide; Bini, Matteo; Camaiora, Umberto; Castiglioni, Paolo; Moderato, Luca; Bosi, Davide; Geroldi, Simone; Ugolotti, Pietro T; Brambilla, Lorenzo; Brambilla, Valerio; Coruzzi, Paolo

2018-01-01

Background High levels of serum uric acid have been associated with adverse outcomes in cardiovascular diseases such as myocardial infarction and heart failure. The aim of the current study was to evaluate the prognostic role of serum uric acid levels in patients undergoing cardiac rehabilitation after myocardial revascularization and/or cardiac valve surgery. Design We performed an observational prospective cohort study. Methods The study included 1440 patients with available serum uric acid levels, prospectively followed for 50 ± 17 months. Mean age was 67 ± 11 years; 781 patients (54%) underwent myocardial revascularization, 474 (33%) cardiac valve surgery and 185 (13%) valve-plus-coronary artery by-pass graft surgery. The primary endpoints were overall and cardiovascular mortality while secondary end-points were combined major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events. Results Serum uric acid level mean values were 286 ± 95 µmol/l and elevated serum uric acid levels (≥360 µmol/l or 6 mg/dl) were found in 275 patients (19%). Overall mortality (hazard ratio = 2.1; 95% confidence interval: 1.5-3.0; p < 0.001), cardiovascular mortality (hazard ratio = 2.0; 95% confidence interval: 1.2-3.2; p = 0.004) and major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events rate (hazard ratio = 1.5; 95% confidence interval: 1.0-2.0; p = 0.019) were significantly higher in patients with elevated serum uric acid levels, even after adjustment for age, gender, arterial hypertension, diabetes, glomerular filtration rate, atrial fibrillation and medical therapy. Moreover, strong positive correlations between serum uric acid level and probability of overall mortality ( p < 0.001), cardiovascular mortality ( p < 0.001) and major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events ( p = 0.003) were found. Conclusions Serum uric acid levels predict mortality and adverse cardiovascular outcome in patients undergoing myocardial revascularization

Wheelchair batteries. II: Capacity, sizing, and life.

PubMed

Kauzlarich, J J

1990-01-01

The characteristics of lead-acid batteries for wheelchairs in terms of a new empirical equation for the capacity, application of the Palmgren-Miner Rule for sizing the battery, and the effect of depth of discharge on the life cycles is presented. A brief section about selecting an economical battery for an electric wheelchair is included.

The effect of airborne lead particle size on worker blood-lead levels: an empirical study of battery workers.

PubMed

Hodgkins, D G; Robins, T G; Hinkamp, D L; Schork, M A; Levine, S P; Krebs, W H

1991-12-01

Theoretical models and experimental data suggest that the particle size distribution of lead aerosols should affect the lead dose absorbed by exposed workers. In the present study, 44 workers in five major operations in a high-volume, lead-acid battery plant were studied for the influence of lead aerosol size on lead-in-blood (PbB) levels. A multiple linear regression analysis based on particle size assumptions made in the model used by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration to help select the permissible exposure level (PEL) for lead showed no improvement in prediction of PbB over that already present without any consideration of particle size. The use of the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH) regional size-selective criteria also failed to improve the prediction of PbB. However, when deposition models developed by Heyder et al were used in which the lead aerosol was separated into alveolar and extra-alveolar fractions, corresponding to what is considered respirable and ingestible lead, the coefficient of determination (R2) associated with the fractionated lead particulate increased approximately 25% over that attributable to only the total lead concentration. In addition, the deposition model, which closely matched the ACGIH reference worker criteria, resulted in ratios of the coefficients for the respirable to ingestible lead contributions to PbB that appeared to agree with experimental data, suggesting approximately a 10 to 1 ratio in absorption efficiency of the lung versus the gastrointestinal tract.

Battery/Ultracapacitor Evaluation for X-38 Crew Return Vehicle (CRV)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Darcy, Eric; Strangways, Bradley

1999-01-01

This presentation reported on the evaluation of the battery/ultracapacitor for the crew return vehicle (CRV). The CRV, as part of the international space station (ISS) planning, will be available to return to earth an ill or injured crew person, or if the ISS becomes unsafe, and the shuttle is not available. The requirements of the X-38 CRV are reviewed, and in light of the power requirements, the battery's required performance is reviewed. The ultracapacitor bank, and its test method is described. The test results are reviewed. A picture of the test set up is displayed showing the ultracapacitor bank and the NiMH battery. The presentation continues by reviewing tests of 5 available trade high power cell designs: (1) Hawker lead acid, (2) Bolder lead acid, (3) Energizer NiMH, (4) Sanyo NiCd, and (5) Energizer NiCd. The test methods and results are reviewed. There is also a review of the issues concerning lead acid batteries and conclusions.

Proper battery system design for GAS experiments

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Calogero, Stephen A.

1992-10-01

The purpose of this paper is to help the GAS experimenter to design a battery system that meets mission success requirements while at the same time reducing the hazards associated with the battery system. Lead-acid, silver-zinc and alkaline chemistry batteries will be discussed. Lithium batteries will be briefly discussed with emphasis on back-up power supply capabilities. The hazards associated with different battery configurations will be discussed along with the controls necessary to make the battery system two-fault tolerant.

Proper battery system design for GAS experiments

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Calogero, Stephen A.

1992-01-01

The purpose of this paper is to help the GAS experimenter to design a battery system that meets mission success requirements while at the same time reducing the hazards associated with the battery system. Lead-acid, silver-zinc and alkaline chemistry batteries will be discussed. Lithium batteries will be briefly discussed with emphasis on back-up power supply capabilities. The hazards associated with different battery configurations will be discussed along with the controls necessary to make the battery system two-fault tolerant.

Advanced batteries for electric vehicles : an assessment of performance, cost, and availability [Draft

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2000-06-22

This report documents the findings of a study undertaken to investigate batteries for use in electric vehicles. Batteries studied include lead-acid batteries, nickel-metal hydride batteries, lithium-ion electric vehicle batteries, and lithium-metal p...

Shear-Sensitive Genes in Aortic Valve Endothelium

PubMed Central

Fernández Esmerats, Joan; Heath, Jack

2016-01-01

Abstract Significance: Currently, calcific aortic valve disease (CAVD) is only treatable through surgical intervention because the specific mechanisms leading to the disease remain unclear. In this review, we explore the forces and structure of the valve, as well as the mechanosensors and downstream signaling in the valve endothelium known to contribute to inflammation and valve dysfunction. Recent Advances: While the valvular structure enables adaptation to dynamic hemodynamic forces, these are impaired during CAVD, resulting in pathological systemic changes. Mechanosensing mechanisms—proteins, sugars, and membrane structures—at the surface of the valve endothelial cell relay mechanical signals to the nucleus. As a result, a large number of mechanosensitive genes are transcribed to alter cellular phenotype and, ultimately, induce inflammation and CAVD. Transforming growth factor-β signaling and Wnt/β-catenin have been widely studied in this context. Importantly, NADPH oxidase and reactive oxygen species/reactive nitrogen species signaling has increasingly been recognized to play a key role in the cellular response to mechanical stimuli. In addition, a number of valvular microRNAs are mechanosensitive and may regulate the progression of CAVD. Critical Issues: While numerous pathways have been described in the pathology of CAVD, no treatment options are available to avoid surgery for advanced stenosis and calcification of the aortic valve. More work must be focused on this issue to lead to successful therapies for the disease. Future Directions: Ultimately, a more complete understanding of the mechanisms within the aortic valve endothelium will lead us to future therapies important for treatment of CAVD without the risks involved with valve replacement or repair. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 25, 401–414. PMID:26651130

A novel iron-lead redox flow battery for large-scale energy storage

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zeng, Y. K.; Zhao, T. S.; Zhou, X. L.; Wei, L.; Ren, Y. X.

2017-04-01

The redox flow battery (RFB) is one of the most promising large-scale energy storage technologies for the massive utilization of intermittent renewables especially wind and solar energy. This work presents a novel redox flow battery that utilizes inexpensive and abundant Fe(II)/Fe(III) and Pb/Pb(II) redox couples as redox materials. Experimental results show that both the Fe(II)/Fe(III) and Pb/Pb(II) redox couples have fast electrochemical kinetics in methanesulfonic acid, and that the coulombic efficiency and energy efficiency of the battery are, respectively, as high as 96.2% and 86.2% at 40 mA cm-2. Furthermore, the battery exhibits stable performance in terms of efficiencies and discharge capacities during the cycle test. The inexpensive redox materials, fast electrochemical kinetics and stable cycle performance make the present battery a promising candidate for large-scale energy storage applications.

Pannus Formation Leads to Valve Malfunction in the Tricuspid Position 19 Years after Triple Valve Replacement.

PubMed

Alskaf, Ebraham; McConkey, Hannah; Laskar, Nabila; Kardos, Attila

2016-06-20

The Medtronic ATS Open Pivot mechanical valve has been successfully used in heart valve surgery for more than two decades. We present the case of a patient who, 19 years following a tricuspid valve replacement with an ATS prosthesis as part of a triple valve operation following infective endocarditis, developed severe tricuspid regurgitation due to pannus formation.

Lithium-antimony-lead liquid metal battery for grid-level energy storage

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Kangli; Jiang, Kai; Chung, Brice; Ouchi, Takanari; Burke, Paul J.; Boysen, Dane A.; Bradwell, David J.; Kim, Hojong; Muecke, Ulrich; Sadoway, Donald R.

2014-10-01

The ability to store energy on the electric grid would greatly improve its efficiency and reliability while enabling the integration of intermittent renewable energy technologies (such as wind and solar) into baseload supply. Batteries have long been considered strong candidate solutions owing to their small spatial footprint, mechanical simplicity and flexibility in siting. However, the barrier to widespread adoption of batteries is their high cost. Here we describe a lithium-antimony-lead liquid metal battery that potentially meets the performance specifications for stationary energy storage applications. This Li||Sb-Pb battery comprises a liquid lithium negative electrode, a molten salt electrolyte, and a liquid antimony-lead alloy positive electrode, which self-segregate by density into three distinct layers owing to the immiscibility of the contiguous salt and metal phases. The all-liquid construction confers the advantages of higher current density, longer cycle life and simpler manufacturing of large-scale storage systems (because no membranes or separators are involved) relative to those of conventional batteries. At charge-discharge current densities of 275 milliamperes per square centimetre, the cells cycled at 450 degrees Celsius with 98 per cent Coulombic efficiency and 73 per cent round-trip energy efficiency. To provide evidence of their high power capability, the cells were discharged and charged at current densities as high as 1,000 milliamperes per square centimetre. Measured capacity loss after operation for 1,800 hours (more than 450 charge-discharge cycles at 100 per cent depth of discharge) projects retention of over 85 per cent of initial capacity after ten years of daily cycling. Our results demonstrate that alloying a high-melting-point, high-voltage metal (antimony) with a low-melting-point, low-cost metal (lead) advantageously decreases the operating temperature while maintaining a high cell voltage. Apart from the fact that this finding

Lithium-antimony-lead liquid metal battery for grid-level energy storage.

PubMed

Wang, Kangli; Jiang, Kai; Chung, Brice; Ouchi, Takanari; Burke, Paul J; Boysen, Dane A; Bradwell, David J; Kim, Hojong; Muecke, Ulrich; Sadoway, Donald R

2014-10-16

The ability to store energy on the electric grid would greatly improve its efficiency and reliability while enabling the integration of intermittent renewable energy technologies (such as wind and solar) into baseload supply. Batteries have long been considered strong candidate solutions owing to their small spatial footprint, mechanical simplicity and flexibility in siting. However, the barrier to widespread adoption of batteries is their high cost. Here we describe a lithium-antimony-lead liquid metal battery that potentially meets the performance specifications for stationary energy storage applications. This Li||Sb-Pb battery comprises a liquid lithium negative electrode, a molten salt electrolyte, and a liquid antimony-lead alloy positive electrode, which self-segregate by density into three distinct layers owing to the immiscibility of the contiguous salt and metal phases. The all-liquid construction confers the advantages of higher current density, longer cycle life and simpler manufacturing of large-scale storage systems (because no membranes or separators are involved) relative to those of conventional batteries. At charge-discharge current densities of 275 milliamperes per square centimetre, the cells cycled at 450 degrees Celsius with 98 per cent Coulombic efficiency and 73 per cent round-trip energy efficiency. To provide evidence of their high power capability, the cells were discharged and charged at current densities as high as 1,000 milliamperes per square centimetre. Measured capacity loss after operation for 1,800 hours (more than 450 charge-discharge cycles at 100 per cent depth of discharge) projects retention of over 85 per cent of initial capacity after ten years of daily cycling. Our results demonstrate that alloying a high-melting-point, high-voltage metal (antimony) with a low-melting-point, low-cost metal (lead) advantageously decreases the operating temperature while maintaining a high cell voltage. Apart from the fact that this

Particle size distributions of lead measured in battery manufacturing and secondary smelter facilities and implications in setting workplace lead exposure limits.

PubMed

Petito Boyce, Catherine; Sax, Sonja N; Cohen, Joel M

2017-08-01

Inhalation plays an important role in exposures to lead in airborne particulate matter in occupational settings, and particle size determines where and how much of airborne lead is deposited in the respiratory tract and how much is subsequently absorbed into the body. Although some occupational airborne lead particle size data have been published, limited information is available reflecting current workplace conditions in the U.S. To address this data gap, the Battery Council International (BCI) conducted workplace monitoring studies at nine lead acid battery manufacturing facilities (BMFs) and five secondary smelter facilities (SSFs) across the U.S. This article presents the results of the BCI studies focusing on the particle size distributions calculated from Personal Marple Impactor sampling data and particle deposition estimates in each of the three major respiratory tract regions derived using the Multiple-Path Particle Dosimetry model. The BCI data showed the presence of predominantly larger-sized particles in the work environments evaluated, with average mass median aerodynamic diameters (MMADs) ranging from 21-32 µm for the three BMF job categories and from 15-25 µm for the five SSF job categories tested. The BCI data also indicated that the percentage of lead mass measured at the sampled facilities in the submicron range (i.e., <1 µm, a particle size range associated with enhanced absorption of associated lead) was generally small. The estimated average percentages of lead mass in the submicron range for the tested job categories ranged from 0.8-3.3% at the BMFs and from 0.44-6.1% at the SSFs. Variability was observed in the particle size distributions across job categories and facilities, and sensitivity analyses were conducted to explore this variability. The BCI results were compared with results reported in the scientific literature. Screening-level analyses were also conducted to explore the overall degree of lead absorption potentially

Acquired tricuspid valve stenosis due to intentionally redundant transvenous lead placement for VDD pacing in two small dogs.

PubMed

Gunther-Harrington, Catherine T; Michel, Adam O; Stern, Joshua A

2015-12-01

Placement of an endocardial VDD pacing lead in small dogs (<12 kg) may necessitate a redundant lead remaining looped in the right atrium for appropriate sensing and pacing. This report documented acquired tricuspid valve stenosis in two small dogs between 8 months and 4 years after VDD pacemaker placement for third-degree atrioventricular block. Echocardiography and Doppler echocardiography identified elevated transtricuspid flow velocities, prolonged pressure half-times, decreased valve leaflet excursions, and tricuspid regurgitation in both cases. Both cases were euthanized secondary to this pacing complication. Necropsy was performed in one case and confirmed adherence between the redundant lead loop, atrial and valve tissue. While VDD pacing in dogs has proven hemodynamic benefits, these benefits have not been demonstrated in terms of survival benefit or clinical signs. The requirement of redundant lead placement in small dogs for appropriate VDD lead function creates potential deleterious effects that should be weighed against the possible clinical value of VDD pacing in these patients. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Optimization of batteries for plug-in hybrid electric vehicles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

English, Jeffrey Robb

This thesis presents a method to quickly determine the optimal battery for an electric vehicle given a set of vehicle characteristics and desired performance metrics. The model is based on four independent design variables: cell count, cell capacity, state-of-charge window, and battery chemistry. Performance is measured in seven categories: cost, all-electric range, maximum speed, acceleration, battery lifetime, lifetime greenhouse gas emissions, and charging time. The performance of each battery is weighted according to a user-defined objective function to determine its overall fitness. The model is informed by a series of battery tests performed on scaled-down battery samples. Seven battery chemistries were tested for capacity at different discharge rates, maximum output power at different charge levels, and performance in a real-world automotive duty cycle. The results of these tests enable a prediction of the performance of the battery in an automobile. Testing was performed at both room temperature and low temperature to investigate the effects of battery temperature on operation. The testing highlighted differences in behavior between lithium, nickel, and lead based batteries. Battery performance decreased with temperature across all samples with the largest effect on nickel-based chemistries. Output power also decreased with lead acid batteries being the least affected by temperature. Lithium-ion batteries were found to be highly efficient (>95%) under a vehicular duty cycle; nickel and lead batteries have greater losses. Low temperatures hindered battery performance and resulted in accelerated failure in several samples. Lead acid, lead tin, and lithium nickel alloy batteries were unable to complete the low temperature testing regime without losing significant capacity and power capability. This is a concern for their applicability in electric vehicles intended for cold climates which have to maintain battery temperature during long periods of inactivity

Humic acid batteries derived from vermicomposts at different C/N ratios

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shamsuddin, R. M.; Borhan, A.; Lim, W. K.

2017-06-01

Humic acid is a known fertilizer derived from decomposed organic matters. Organic wastes are normally landfilled for disposal which had contributed negatively to the environment. From waste-to-wealth perspective, such wastes are potential precursors for compost fertilizers. When worms are added into a composting process, the process is termed as vermicomposting. In this work, humic acid from vermicompost derived from campus green wastes was developed into a battery. This adds value proposition to compost instead of being traditionally used solely as soil improver. This research work aimed to study the correlation between electrical potential generated by humic acid at different Carbon to Nitrogen (C/N) ratios of vermicompost at 20, 25, 30 and 35. The temperature and pH profiles of composting revealed that the compost was ready after 55 days. The humic acid was extracted from compost via alkaline extraction followed by precipitation in a strong acid. The extracted humic acid together with other additives were packed into a compartment and termed as vermibattery. Another set of battery running only on the additives was also prepared as a control. The net voltage produced by a single vermibattery cell with Zn and PbO electrodes was in the range of 0.31 to 0.44 V with compost at C/N ratio of 30 gave the highest voltage. The battery can be connected in series to increase the voltage generation. Quality assessment on the compost revealed that the final carbon content is between 16 to 23 wt%, nitrogen content of 0.4 to 0.5 wt%, humic acid yield of 0.7 to 1.5 wt% and final compost mass reduction of 10 to 35 wt%. Composting campus green wastes carries multi-fold benefits of reducing labour requirement, generating fertilizer for campus greenery and green battery construction.

Ecological and biomedical effects of effluents from near-term electric vehicle storage battery cycles

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Not Available

1980-05-01

An assessment of the ecological and biomedical effects due to commercialization of storage batteries for electric and hybrid vehicles is given. It deals only with the near-term batteries, namely Pb/acid, Ni/Zn, and Ni/Fe, but the complete battery cycle is considered, i.e., mining and milling of raw materials, manufacture of the batteries, cases and covers; use of the batteries in electric vehicles, including the charge-discharge cycles; recycling of spent batteries; and disposal of nonrecyclable components. The gaseous, liquid, and solid emissions from various phases of the battery cycle are identified. The effluent dispersal in the environment is modeled and ecological effectsmore » are assessed in terms of biogeochemical cycles. The metabolic and toxic responses by humans and laboratory animals to constituents of the effluents are discussed. Pertinent environmental and health regulations related to the battery industry are summarized and regulatory implications for large-scale storage battery commercialization are discussed. Each of the seven sections were abstracted and indexed individually for EDB/ERA. Additional information is presented in the seven appendixes entitled; growth rate scenario for lead/acid battery development; changes in battery composition during discharge; dispersion of stack and fugitive emissions from battery-related operations; methodology for estimating population exposure to total suspended particulates and SO/sub 2/ resulting from central power station emissions for the daily battery charging demand of 10,000 electric vehicles; determination of As air emissions from Zn smelting; health effects: research related to EV battery technologies. (JGB)« less

Testing and development of electric vehicle batteries for EPRI Electric Transportation Program

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

1985-11-01

Argonne National Laboratory conducted an electric-vehicle battery testing and development program for the Electric Power Research Institute. As part of this program, eighteen battery modules previously developed by Johnson Controls, Inc. were tested. This type of battery (EV-2300 - an improved state-of-the-art lead-acid battery) was designed specifically for improved performance, range, and life in electric vehicles. In order to obtain necessary performance data, the batteries were tested under various duty cycles typical of normal service. This program, supported by the Electric Power Research Institute, consisted of three tasks: determination of the effect of cycle life vs peak power and rest period, determination of the impact of charge method on cycle life, and evaluation of the EV-2300 battery system. Two supporting studies were also carried out: one on thermal management of electric-vehicle batteries and one on enhanced utilization of active material in lead-acid batteries.

Effects of tranexamic acid on coagulation indexes of patients undergoing heart valve replacement surgery under cardiopulmonary bypass

PubMed Central

Liu, Fei; Xu, Dong; Zhang, Kefeng; Zhang, Jian

2016-01-01

This study aims to explore the effects of tranexamic acid on the coagulation indexes of patients undergoing heart valve replacement surgery under the condition of cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB). One hundred patients who conformed to the inclusive criteria were selected and divided into a tranexamic acid group and a non-tranexamic acid group. They all underwent heart valve replacement surgery under CPB. Patients in the tranexamic acid group were intravenously injected with 1 g of tranexamic acid (100 mL) at the time point after anesthesia induction and before skin incision and at the time point after the neutralization of heparin. Patients in the non-tranexamic acid group were given 100 mL of normal saline at corresponding time points, respectively. Then the coagulation indexes of the two groups were analyzed. The activated blood clotting time (ACT) of the two groups was within normal scope before CPB, while four coagulation indexes including prothrombin time (PT), activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT), international normalized ratio (INR), and fibrinogen (FIB) had significant increases after surgery; the PT and INR of the tranexamic acid group had a remarkable decline after surgery. All the findings suggest that the application of tranexamic acid in heart valve replacement surgery under CPB can effectively reduce intraoperative and postoperative blood loss. PMID:27694613

Recycling of Exhaust Batteries in Lead-Foam Electrodes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Costanza, Girolamo; Tata, Maria Elisa

Lead and lead-alloy foams have been investigated in this research. In particular low-cost techniques for the direct production of lead-based electrodes have been analyzed and discussed in this work. The relevance of the main process parameters (powder compacting pressure, granulometry, base metal composition, sintering temperature and time) have been focused and the effect on foam morphology has been discussed too. In particular "Sintering and Dissolution Process" (SDP) and "Replication Process" (RP) have been employed and suitable modified. Both spherical urea and NaCl have been adopted in the SDP method. In the replication process it has been evidenced that the viscosity of the melt is fundamental. Furthermore the research examines lead recovery and recycling of exhaust batteries into foam-based electrodes. A novel method for the direct conversion of Pb scrap into lead foam is discussed too.

Larry car for a coking oven battery

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Corry, D.B.

A larry car (3) for transporting a charge of pre-heated coal along the top of a battery of coke ovens, from a storage installation including a group of metering bins (1) at one or more filling stations above the battery, to a corresponding group of charge holes for the oven chamber to be charged, the car including a corresponding group of coal transfer hoppers (4) each having valved inlet and discharge apertures (5,21), a sealed connection (2) between each metering bin and transfer hopper, an inert gas reservoir (10) connectable via a valved manifold (13,14) to each transfer hopper, amore » valved connection (7,8,9) for charging the reservoir, and a valved connection (15,16,17) to permit dusty gas to be displaced into the storage bunkers, and control means for the various valved connections to maintain continuous isolation of the interior of each transfer hopper from the atmosphere, to permit dust-laden gases to escape into the storage installation, and to cause inert medium to displace coal discharged from the transfer hoppers.« less

Transcatheter Aortic Valve-in-Valve Procedure in Patients with Bioprosthetic Structural Valve Deterioration

PubMed Central

Reul, Ross M.; Ramchandani, Mahesh K.; Reardon, Michael J.

2017-01-01

Surgical aortic valve replacement is the gold standard procedure to treat patients with severe, symptomatic aortic valve stenosis or insufficiency. Bioprosthetic valves are used for surgical aortic valve replacement with a much greater prevalence than mechanical valves. However, bioprosthetic valves may fail over time because of structural valve deterioration; this often requires intervention due to severe bioprosthetic valve stenosis or regurgitation or a combination of both. In select patients, transcatheter aortic valve replacement is an alternative to surgical aortic valve replacement. Transcatheter valve-in-valve (ViV) replacement is performed by implanting a transcatheter heart valve within a failing bioprosthetic valve. The transcatheter ViV operation is a less invasive procedure compared with reoperative surgical aortic valve replacement, but it has been associated with specific complications and requires extensive preoperative work-up and planning by the heart team. Data from experimental studies and analyses of results from clinical procedures have led to strategies to improve outcomes of these procedures. The type, size, and implant position of the transcatheter valve can be optimized for individual patients with knowledge of detailed dimensions of the surgical valve and radiographic and echocardiographic measurements of the patient's anatomy. Understanding the complexities of the ViV procedure can lead surgeons to make choices during the original surgical valve implantation that can make a future ViV operation more technically feasible years before it is required. PMID:29743998

Successful management of multiple permanent pacemaker complications – infection, 13 year old silent lead perforation and exteriorisation following failed percutaneous extraction, superior vena cava obstruction, tricuspid valve endocarditis, pulmonary embolism and prosthetic tricuspid valve thrombosis

PubMed Central

Kaul, Pankaj; Adluri, Krishna; Javangula, Kalyana; Baig, Wasir

2009-01-01

A 59 year old man underwent mechanical tricuspid valve replacement and removal of pacemaker generator along with 4 pacemaker leads for pacemaker endocarditis and superior vena cava obstruction after an earlier percutaneous extraction had to be abandoned, 13 years ago, due to cardiac arrest, accompanied by silent, unsuspected right atrial perforation and exteriorisation of lead. Postoperative course was complicated by tricuspid valve thrombosis and secondary pulmonary embolism requiring TPA thrombolysis which was instantly successful. A review of literature of pacemaker endocarditis and tricuspid thrombosis along with the relevant management strategies is presented. We believe this case report is unusual on account of non operative management of right atrial lead perforation following an unsuccessful attempt at percutaneous removal of right sided infected pacemaker leads and the incidental discovery of the perforated lead 13 years later at sternotomy, presentation of pacemaker endocarditis with a massive load of vegetations along the entire pacemaker lead tract in superior vena cava, right atrial endocardium, tricuspid valve and right ventricular endocardium, leading to a functional and structural SVC obstruction, requirement of an unusually large dose of warfarin postoperatively occasioned, in all probability, by antibiotic drug interactions, presentation of tricuspid prosthetic valve thrombosis uniquely as vasovagal syncope and isolated hypoxia and near instantaneous resolution of tricuspid prosthetic valve thrombosis with Alteplase thrombolysis. PMID:19239701

Effect of Discharge Rate on Positive Active Material of Lead Carbon Battery for Energy Storage

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Kailun; Liu, Hao; Hu, Chen; Gao, Fei; Yang, Kai; Wang, Hao

2017-10-01

Lead carbon battery has been widespread concern with its excellent performance of charge and discharge under High Rate Part State of Charge (HRPSoC) as well as its cycle performance. In this paper, the cycling performance of lead carbon battery for energy storage was tested by different discharge rate. The effects of different discharge rate on the composition and morphology of positive active materials in the cycle was studied by XRD and SEM. The effect of different discharge rate on the ohmic impedance of lead carbon battery was studied by testing Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy with different capacity retention rates. The results show that with the increase of the discharge rate, the content of PbO2 in the positive active material increases, the active substance utilization and the particle size of PbO2 crystal declines, and the ohmic impedance of the battery decreases.

Fast Equalization for Large Lithium Ion Batteries

DTIC Science & Technology

2008-09-01

Lithium - ion batteries use an electrolyte that is flammable if exposed to high temperatures. Slight differences between the series-connected cells in a LiIon battery pack can produce imbalances in the cell voltages, and this greatly reduces the charge capacity. These batteries cannot be trickle charged like a lead acid battery because this would slightly overcharge some cells and would cause these cells to ignite. There are different methods used to ensure that the cells of a battery pack are not overcharged. The targeted equalizer (EQU) described here can

BESCORP SOIL WASHING SYSTEM FOR LEAD BATTERY SITE TREATMENT - APPLICATIONS ANALYSIS REPORT

EPA Science Inventory

This report evaluates the Brice Environmental Services Corporation (BESCORP) Soil Washing System (BSWS) and Its applicability in remediating lead-contaminated soil at lead battery sites. It presents performance and economic data, developed from the U.S. Environmental Protection A...

Research, development, and demonstration of lead-acid batteries for electric vehicle propulsion

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

1984-06-01

Research on electric motor vehicles is reported in the areas of active material utilization and active material integrity; design and fabrication of components, advanced cells, and modules; cell testing; and battery thermal management and electrolyte circulation subsystems.

78 FR 36772 - Agency Information Collection Activities; Submission to OMB for Review and Approval; Comment...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-06-19

... Activities; Submission to OMB for Review and Approval; Comment Request; NSPS for Lead-Acid Battery... the electronic docket, go to www.regulations.gov . Title: NSPS for Lead-Acid Battery Manufacturing...: Owners or operators of lead-acid battery manufacturing facilities. Estimated Number of Respondents: 52...

Nickel-cadmium battery system for electric vehicles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Klein, M.; Charkey, A.

A nickel-cadmium battery system has been developed and is being evaluated for electric vehicle propulsion applications. The battery system design features include: (1) air circulation through gaps between cells for thermal management, (2) a metal-gas coulometric fuel gauge for state-of-charge and charge control, and (3) a modified constant current ac/dc power supply for the charger. The battery delivers one and a half to two times the energy density of comparable lead-acid batteries depending on operating conditions.

Optical state-of-charge monitor for batteries

DOEpatents

Weiss, Jonathan D.

1999-01-01

A method and apparatus for determining the instantaneous state-of-charge of a battery in which change in composition with discharge manifests itself as a change in optical absorption. In a lead-acid battery, the sensor comprises a fiber optic system with an absorption cell or, alternatively, an optical fiber woven into an absorbed-glass-mat battery. In a lithium-ion battery, the sensor comprises fiber optics for introducing light into the anode to monitor absorption when lithium ions are introduced.

Pressure Regulators as Valves for Saving Compressed Air and their Influence on System Dynamics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dvořák, Lukáš; Fojtášek, Kamil

2015-05-01

Pressure regulators in the field of pneumatic mechanisms can be used as valves for saving compressed air. For example it can be used to reduce the pressure when the piston rod is retracting unloaded and thus it is possible to save some energy. However the problem is that saving valve can significantly affect the dynamics of the pneumatic system. The lower pressure in the piston rod chamber causes extension of time for retraction of the piston rod. This article compare the air consumption experimentally determined and calculated, measured curves of pressure in cylinder chambers and piston speed when saving valve is set up differently.

Effects of tranexamic acid on coagulation indexes of patients undergoing heart valve replacement surgery under cardiopulmonary bypass.

PubMed

Liu, Fei; Xu, Dong; Zhang, Kefeng; Zhang, Jian

2016-12-01

This study aims to explore the effects of tranexamic acid on the coagulation indexes of patients undergoing heart valve replacement surgery under the condition of cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB). One hundred patients who conformed to the inclusive criteria were selected and divided into a tranexamic acid group and a non-tranexamic acid group. They all underwent heart valve replacement surgery under CPB. Patients in the tranexamic acid group were intravenously injected with 1 g of tranexamic acid (100 mL) at the time point after anesthesia induction and before skin incision and at the time point after the neutralization of heparin. Patients in the non-tranexamic acid group were given 100 mL of normal saline at corresponding time points, respectively. Then the coagulation indexes of the two groups were analyzed. The activated blood clotting time (ACT) of the two groups was within normal scope before CPB, while four coagulation indexes including prothrombin time (PT), activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT), international normalized ratio (INR), and fibrinogen (FIB) had significant increases after surgery; the PT and INR of the tranexamic acid group had a remarkable decline after surgery. All the findings suggest that the application of tranexamic acid in heart valve replacement surgery under CPB can effectively reduce intraoperative and postoperative blood loss. © The Author(s) 2016.

Thermal management of batteries

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gibbard, H. F.; Chen, C.-C.

Control of the internal temperature during high rate discharge or charge can be a major design problem for large, high energy density battery systems. A systematic approach to the thermal management of such systems is described for different load profiles based on: thermodynamic calculations of internal heat generation; calorimetric measurements of heat flux; analytical and finite difference calculations of the internal temperature distribution; appropriate system designs for heat removal and temperature control. Examples are presented of thermal studies on large lead-acid batteries for electrical utility load levelling and nickel-zinc and lithium-iron sulphide batteries for electric vehicle propulsion.

AUTOMOTIVE DIESEL MAINTENANCE 2. UNIT XIII, BATTERY SERVICE AND TESTING PROCEDURES--PART II.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Human Engineering Inst., Cleveland, OH.

THIS MODULE OF A 25-MODULE COURSE IS DESIGNED TO FAMILIARIZE THE TRAINEE WITH PROCEDURES FOR SERVICING LEAD-ACID STORAGE BATTERIES USED ON DIESEL POWERED EQUIPMENT. TOPICS ARE (1) ELECTROLYTE AND SPECIFIC GRAVITY, (2) BATTERY CHARGING, (3) STORAGE BATTERY TYPES AND DESIGN, (4) BATTERY CAPACITY RATINGS, (5) BATTERY INSTALLATION, SERVICING, AND…

Charging performance of automotive batteries-An underestimated factor influencing lifetime and reliable battery operation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sauer, Dirk Uwe; Karden, Eckhard; Fricke, Birger; Blanke, Holger; Thele, Marc; Bohlen, Oliver; Schiffer, Julia; Gerschler, Jochen Bernhard; Kaiser, Rudi

Dynamic charge acceptance and charge acceptance under constant voltage charging conditions are for two reasons essential for lead-acid battery operation: energy efficiency in applications with limited charging time (e.g. PV systems or regenerative braking in vehicles) and avoidance of accelerated ageing due to sulphation. Laboratory tests often use charge regimes which are beneficial for the battery life, but which differ significantly from the operating conditions in the field. Lead-acid batteries in applications with limited charging time and partial-state-of-charge operation are rarely fully charged due to their limited charge acceptance. Therefore, they suffer from sulphation and early capacity loss. However, when appropriate charging strategies are applied most of the lost capacity and thus performance for the user may be recovered. The paper presents several aspects of charging regimes and charge acceptance. Theoretical and experimental investigations show that temperature is the most critical parameter. Full charging within short times can be achieved only at elevated temperatures. A strong dependency of the charge acceptance during charging pulses on the pre-treatment of the battery can be observed, which is not yet fully understood. But these effects have a significant impact on the fuel efficiency of micro-hybrid electric vehicles.

Improved electrolyte for zinc-bromine flow batteries

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wu, M. C.; Zhao, T. S.; Wei, L.; Jiang, H. R.; Zhang, R. H.

2018-04-01

Conventional zinc bromide electrolytes offer low ionic conductivity and often trigger severe zinc dendrite growth in zinc-bromine flow batteries. Here we report an improved electrolyte modified with methanesulfonic acid, which not only improves the electrolyte conductivity but also ameliorates zinc dendrite. Experimental results also reveal that the kinetics and reversibility of Zn2+/Zn and Br2/Br- are improved in this modified electrolyte. Moreover, the battery's internal resistance is significantly reduced from 4.9 to 2.0 Ω cm2 after adding 1 M methanesulfonic acid, thus leading to an improved energy efficiency from 64% to 75% at a current density of 40 mA cm-2. More impressively, the battery is capable of delivering an energy efficiency of about 78% at a current density of as high as 80 mA cm-2 when the electrode is replaced by a thermally treated one. Additionally, zinc dendrite growth is found to be effectively suppressed in methanesulfonic acid supported media, which, as a result, enables the battery to be operated for 50 cycles without degradation, whereas the one without methanesulfonic acid suffers from significant decay after only 40 cycles, primarily due to severe zinc dendrite growth. These superior results indicate methanesulfonic acid is a promising supporting electrolyte for zinc-bromine flow batteries.

Improvements to active material for VRLA batteries

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Prengaman, R. David

In the past several years, there have been many developments in the materials for lead-acid batteries. Silver in grid alloys for high temperature climates in SLI batteries has increased the silver content of the recycled lead stream. Concern about silver and other contaminants in lead for the active material for VRLA batteries led to the initiation of a study by ALABC at CSIRO. The study evaluated the effects of many different impurities on the hydrogen and oxygen evolution currents in float service for flooded and VRLA batteries at different temperatures and potentials. The study results increased the understanding about the effects of various impurities in lead for use in active material, as well as possible performance and life improvements in VRLA batteries. Some elements thought to be detrimental have been found to be beneficial. Studies have now uncovered the effects of the beneficial elements as well as additives to both the positive and negative active material in increasing battery capacity, extending life and improving recharge. Glass separator materials have also been re-examined in light of the impurities study. Old glass compositions may be revived to give improved battery performance via compositional changes to the glass chemistry. This paper reviews these new developments and outline suggestions for improved battery performance based on unique impurities and additives.

Granulated lead oxides with teflon

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Nilsson, O.

An improvement in the production of tube electrodes for lead storage batteries comprising mixing a small amount (0.1 to 3 weight percent) of polytetrafluoroethylene (Ptfe) with lead powder, the mixture is heated and shear stresses are applied thereto sufficient to convert substantially all of the ptfe in the mixture to fibrous form and to form a non-powdery dough. The dough is then granulated and the doughy granules about 100 mu to 500 mu in major dimension are used for filling tube elctrodes a lead-acid storage battery.

Does the valve regulated release of urine from the bladder decrease encrustation and blockage of indwelling catheters by crystalline proteus mirabilis biofilms?

PubMed

Sabbuba, N A; Stickler, D J; Long, M J; Dong, Z; Short, T D; Feneley, R J C

2005-01-01

We tested whether valve regulated, intermittent flow of urine from catheterized bladders decreases catheter encrustation. Laboratory models of the catheterized bladder were infected with Proteus mirabilis. Urine was allowed to drain continuously through the catheters or regulated by valves to drain intermittently at predetermined intervals. The time that catheters required to become blocked was recorded and encrustation was visualized by scanning electron microscopy. When a manual valve was used to drain urine from the bladder at 2-hour intervals 4 times during the day, catheters required significantly longer to become blocked than those on continuous drainage (mean 62.6 vs 35.9 hours, p = 0.039). A similar 1.7-fold increase occurred when urine was drained at 4-hour intervals 3 times daily. Experiments with an automatic valve in which urine was released at 2 or 4-hour intervals through the day and night also showed a significant increase in mean time to blockage compared with continuous drainage (p = 0.001). Scanning electron microscopy confirmed that crystalline biofilm was less extensive on valve regulated catheters. Valve regulated, intermittent flow of urine through catheters increases the time that catheters require to become blocked with crystalline biofilm. The most beneficial effect was recorded when urine was released from the bladder at 4-hour intervals throughout the day and night by an automatic valve.

78 FR 63148 - Approval and Promulgation of Implementation Plans; Tennessee; Bristol; 2010 Lead Base Year...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-10-23

... per year within the Bristol Area is Exide Technologies Facility, a lead acid battery manufacturing and recycling facility which processes lead and reclaimed lead into batteries for the auto industry. Pursuant to...

Analysis of Complex Valve and Feed Systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ahuja, Vineet; Hosangadi, Ashvin; Shipman, Jeremy; Cavallo, Peter; Dash, Sanford

2007-01-01

A numerical framework for analysis of complex valve systems supports testing of propulsive systems by simulating key valve and control system components in the test loop. In particular, it is designed to enhance the analysis capability in terms of identifying system transients and quantifying the valve response to these transients. This system has analysis capability for simulating valve motion in complex systems operating in diverse flow regimes ranging from compressible gases to cryogenic liquids. A key feature is the hybrid, unstructured framework with sub-models for grid movement and phase change including cryogenic cavitations. The multi-element unstructured framework offers improved predictions of valve performance characteristics under steady conditions for structurally complex valves such as pressure regulator valve. Unsteady simulations of valve motion using this computational approach have been carried out for various valves in operation at Stennis Space Center such as the split-body valve and the 10-in. (approx.25.4-cm) LOX (liquid oxygen) valve and the 4-in. (approx.10 cm) Y-pattern valve (liquid nitrogen). Such simulations make use of variable grid topologies, thereby permitting solution accuracy and resolving important flow physics in the seat region of the moving valve. An advantage to this software includes possible reduction in testing costs incurred due to disruptions relating to unexpected flow transients or functioning of valve/flow control systems. Prediction of the flow anomalies leading to system vibrations, flow resonance, and valve stall can help in valve scheduling and significantly reduce the need for activation tests. This framework has been evaluated for its ability to predict performance metrics like flow coefficient for cavitating venturis and valve coefficient curves, and could be a valuable tool in predicting and understanding anomalous behavior of system components at rocket propulsion testing and design sites.

Ion implantation of highly corrosive electrolyte battery components

DOEpatents

Muller, Rolf H.; Zhang, Shengtao

1997-01-01

A method of producing corrosion resistant electrodes and other surfaces in corrosive batteries using ion implantation is described. Solid electrically conductive material is used as the ion implantation source. Battery electrode grids, especially anode grids, can be produced with greatly increased corrosion resistance for use in lead acid, molten salt, end sodium sulfur.

High rate partial-state-of-charge operation of VRLA batteries

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Moseley, Patrick T.

The world market for 12 V SLI batteries currently stands at around US$ 12 billion. The lack of a serious challenge from other battery types has allowed lead-acid products to serve this market exclusively, with minimal demand for product improvement through research and development, and a sharp competition has, over time, cut sales prices to commodity levels. The electrochemical storage of energy in automobiles now faces the possibility of a major change, in the form of the proposed 36/42 V electrical systems for vehicles that remain primarily powered by internal combustion engines, and of the hybrid electric vehicle. The duty cycle for these two applications sees the battery held at a partial-state-of-charge (PSoC) for most of its life and required to supply, and to accept, charge at unprecedented rates. The remarkable advances achieved with VRLA battery technology for electric vehicles during the past 8-10 years will be of only passing value in overcoming the challenges posed by high rate PSoC service in 36/42 V and HEV duty. This is because the failure modes seen in PSoC are quite different from those faced in EV (deep cycle) use. The replacement of the 12 V SLI will not take place rapidly. However, if the applications which take its place are to be satisfied by a lead-acid product (probably VRLA), rather than by a battery of a different chemistry, a program of development as successful as that mounted for deep cycle duty will be required. The present phase of the Advanced Lead-Acid Battery Consortium (ALABC) R&D program has begun to shed light on those aspects of the function of a VRLA battery which currently limit its life in high rate PSoC duty. The program is also pursuing the several technologies which show promise of overcoming those limits, including multiple tab plate design, mass transport facilitation and minor component (both beneficial and detrimental impurity) management. This paper presents a brief review of the changes which are taking place in

AUTOMOTIVE DIESEL MAINTENANCE 2. UNIT XII, LEARNING ABOUT BATTERY SERVICING AND TESTING (PART I).

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Human Engineering Inst., Cleveland, OH.

THID MODULE OF A 25-MODULE COURSE IS DESIGNED TO DEVELOP AN UNDERSTANDING OF THE CONSTRUCTION AND MAINTENANCE OF LEAD-ACID STORAGE BATTERIES USED ON DIESEL POWERED EQUIPMENT. TOPICS ARE (1) BATTERY COMPONENTS AND CONSTRUCTION, (2) CHEMICAL ACTION IN BATTERIES, (3) THE BATTERY AND THE CHARGING CIRCUIT, (4) BATTERY CHARGING VOLTAGE, (5) EFFECTS OF…

Ion implantation of highly corrosive electrolyte battery components

DOEpatents

Muller, R.H.; Zhang, S.

1997-01-14

A method of producing corrosion resistant electrodes and other surfaces in corrosive batteries using ion implantation is described. Solid electrically conductive material is used as the ion implantation source. Battery electrode grids, especially anode grids, can be produced with greatly increased corrosion resistance for use in lead acid, molten salt, and sodium sulfur. 6 figs.

Voltage Profiles for the Lead-Acid Cell: Experiment and Theory

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Haaser, Robert; Ross, Joseph H.; Saslow, Wayne M.

1999-10-01

Using platinum electrodes we have measured the voltage profile in space across a lead-acid cell, for slow, steady processes. Once in the slow, steady charge or discharge regime, the experimental voltage profile is quadratic, as predicted by recent theory.^1 However, even without current flow, in the slow, steady regime the voltage profile also is quadratic, rather than a straight line with zero slope. This other quadratic voltage profile is due to nonfaradaic chemical reactions at the working electrodes, which slowly discharge the cell without drawing any current. Such a quadratic voltage profile follows from theory. The voltage jump profiles (change in voltage profile on sudden change in current) on starting or ending a charge or discharge, are linear in space, with slope consistent with the measured resistivity of battery acid. This is as expected if charge on the electrodes, but not in the electrolyte, has time to move. 1. W.M.Saslow, Phys.Rev.Lett.76, 4849 (1996).

Beller Lectureship: Materials for Li & Na Batteries :A Computational Materials Science Point of View

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ahuja, Rajeev

Energy storage has been a theme for scientists for two hundred years. The Lead acid battery research on batteries occupied some of the best minds of 19th century. Plante in 1859 invented lead acid battery which starts your car and ignites internal combustion which takes over the propulsion. Although the lead battery is over 150 years old but the origin of its open circuit voltage (OCV) of 2.1 V is still known. In present talk, I will show how one can explain the origin of OCV of 2.1 V based on foundations of relativistic quantum mechanics. Surprisingly, seems to be the first time its chemistry has been theoretically modeled from the first principles. The main message of this work is that most of the electro-motoric force of the common lead battery comes from relativistic effects. In second part, I will provide an overview of the most recent theoretical studies undertaken by us in the field of materials for Li & Na ion batteries. For selected examples, I will show how ab initio calculations can be of use in the effort to reach a better understanding of battery materials and to occasionally also guide the search for new promising materials.

Fluid mechanics of heart valves.

PubMed

Yoganathan, Ajit P; He, Zhaoming; Casey Jones, S

2004-01-01

Valvular heart disease is a life-threatening disease that afflicts millions of people worldwide and leads to approximately 250,000 valve repairs and/or replacements each year. Malfunction of a native valve impairs its efficient fluid mechanic/hemodynamic performance. Artificial heart valves have been used since 1960 to replace diseased native valves and have saved millions of lives. Unfortunately, despite four decades of use, these devices are less than ideal and lead to many complications. Many of these complications/problems are directly related to the fluid mechanics associated with the various mechanical and bioprosthetic valve designs. This review focuses on the state-of-the-art experimental and computational fluid mechanics of native and prosthetic heart valves in current clinical use. The fluid dynamic performance characteristics of caged-ball, tilting-disc, bileaflet mechanical valves and porcine and pericardial stented and nonstented bioprostheic valves are reviewed. Other issues related to heart valve performance, such as biomaterials, solid mechanics, tissue mechanics, and durability, are not addressed in this review.

Interlayer-Spacing-Regulated VOPO4 Nanosheets with Fast Kinetics for High-Capacity and Durable Rechargeable Magnesium Batteries.

PubMed

Zhou, Limin; Liu, Qi; Zhang, Zihe; Zhang, Kai; Xiong, Fangyu; Tan, Shuangshuang; An, Qinyou; Kang, Yong-Mook; Zhou, Zhen; Mai, Liqiang

2018-06-25

Owing to the low-cost, safety, dendrite-free formation, and two-electron redox properties of magnesium (Mg), rechargeable Mg batteries are considered as promising next-generation secondary batteries with high specific capacity and energy density. However, the clumsy Mg 2+ with high polarity inclines to sluggish Mg insertion/deinsertion, leading to inadequate reversible capacity and rate performance. Herein, 2D VOPO 4 nanosheets with expanded interlayer spacing (1.42 nm) are prepared and applied in rechargeable magnesium batteries for the first time. The interlayer expansion provides enough diffusion space for fast kinetics of MgCl + ion flux with low polarization. Benefiting from the structural configuration, the Mg battery exhibits a remarkable reversible capacity of 310 mAh g -1 at 50 mA g -1 , excellent rate capability, and good cycling stability (192 mAh g -1 at 100 mA g -1 even after 500 cycles). In addition, density functional theory (DFT) computations are conducted to understand the electrode behavior with decreased MgCl + migration energy barrier compared with Mg 2+ . This approach, based on the regulation of interlayer distance to control cation insertion, represents a promising guideline for electrode material design on the development of advanced secondary multivalent-ion batteries. © 2018 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Advanced battery technology for electric two-wheelers in the people's Republic of China.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Patil, P. G.; Energy Systems

2009-07-22

This report focuses on lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery technology applications for two- and possibly three-wheeled vehicles. The author of this report visited the People's Republic of China (PRC or China) to assess the status of Li-ion battery technology there and to analyze Chinese policies, regulations, and incentives for using this technology and for using two- and three-wheeled vehicles. Another objective was to determine if the Li-ion batteries produced in China were available for benchmarking in the United States. The United States continues to lead the world in Li-ion technology research and development (R&D). Its strong R&D program is funded by themore » U.S. Department of Energy and other federal agencies, such as the National Institute of Standards and Technology and the U.S. Department of Defense. In Asia, too, developed countries like China, Korea, and Japan are commercializing and producing this technology. In China, more than 120 companies are involved in producing Li-ion batteries. There are more than 139 manufacturers of electric bicycles (also referred to as E-bicycles, electric bikes or E-bikes, and electric two-wheelers or ETWs in this report) and several hundred suppliers. Most E-bikes use lead acid batteries, but there is a push toward using Li-ion battery technology for two- and three-wheeled applications. Highlights and conclusions from this visit are provided in this report and summarized.« less

Severe tricuspid regurgitation due to entrapment of the anterior leaflet of the valve by a permanent pacemaker lead: role of real time three-dimensional echocardiography.

PubMed

Nucifora, Gaetano; Badano, Luigi P; Allocca, Giuseppe; Gianfagna, Pasquale; Proclemer, Alessandro; Cinello, Margherita; Fioretti, Paolo M

2007-07-01

Pacemaker leads may impair tricuspid valve coaptation and they are a well-known cause of mild tricuspid regurgitation. Occasionally, right ventricular leads worsen tricuspid regurgitation over time and patients develop late-onset symptoms of right-sided heart failure. The exact mechanism of this clinical entity is rarely identifiable by 2D-echocardiography only. This case report details a patient with severe tricuspid regurgitation secondary to immobilization of the anterior leaflet of the tricuspid valve by a permanent ventricular pacing lead. The mechanism of regurgitation was clarified by real time three-dimensional echocardiography that showed the location of the ventricular lead and its interference with the tricuspid valve.

Method for improving voltage regulation of batteries, particularly Li/FeS.sub.2 thermal batteries

DOEpatents

Godshall, Ned A.

1988-01-01

Batteries are improved, especially with respect to voltage regulation properties, by employing as anode and cathode compositions, those which fall in a thermodynamically invariant region of the metallurgical phase diagram of the combination of the constituent components. The invention is especially useful in the Li/FeS.sub.2 system.

Method for improving voltage regulation of batteries, particularly Li/FeS/sub 2/ thermal batteries

DOEpatents

Godshall, N.A.

1986-06-10

Batteries are improved, especially with respect to voltage regulation properties, by employing as anode and cathode compositions, those which fall in a thermodynamically invariant region of the metallurgical phase diagram of the combination of the constituent components. The invention is especially useful in the Li/FeS/sub 2/ system.

Lightweight Battery Charge Regulator Used to Track Solar Array Peak Power

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Soeder, James F.; Button, Robert M.

1999-01-01

A battery charge regulator based on the series-connected boost regulator (SCBR) technology has been developed for high-voltage spacecraft applications. The SCBR regulates the solar array power during insolation to prevent battery overcharge or undercharge conditions. It can also be used to provide regulated battery output voltage to spacecraft loads if necessary. This technology uses industry-standard dc-dc converters and a unique interconnection to provide size, weight, efficiency, fault tolerance, and modularity benefits over existing systems. The high-voltage SCBR shown in the photograph has demonstrated power densities of over 1000 watts per kilogram (W/kg). Using four 150-W dc-dc converter modules, it can process 2500 W of power at 120 Vdc with a minimum input voltage of 90 Vdc. Efficiency of the SCBR was 94 to 98 percent over the entire operational range. Internally, the unit is made of two separate SCBR s, each with its own analog control circuitry, to demonstrate the modularity of the technology. The analog controllers regulate the output current and incorporate the output voltage limit with active current sharing between the two units. They also include voltage and current telemetry, on/off control, and baseplate temperature sensors. For peak power tracking, the SCBR was connected to a LabView-based data acquisition system for telemetry and control. A digital control algorithm for tracking the peak power point of a solar array was developed using the principle of matching the source impedance with the load impedance for maximum energy transfer. The algorithm was successfully demonstrated in a simulated spacecraft electrical system at the Boeing PhantomWorks High Voltage Test Facility in Seattle, Washington. The system consists of a 42-string, high-voltage solar array simulator, a 77-cell, 80-ampere-hour (A-hr) nickel-hydrogen battery, and a constant power-load module. The SCBR and the LabView control algorithm successfully tracked the solar array peak

Malate valves: Old shuttles with new perspectives.

PubMed

Selinski, Jennifer; Scheibe, Renate

2018-06-22

Malate valves act as powerful systems for balancing the ATP/NAD(P)H ratio required in various subcellular compartments in plant cells. As components of malate valves, isoforms of malate dehydrogenases (MDHs) and dicarboxylate translocators catalyze the reversible interconversion of malate and oxaloacetate and their transport. Depending on the coenzyme specificity of the MDH isoforms, either NADH or NADPH can be transported indirectly. Arabidopsis thaliana possesses nine genes encoding MDH isoenzymes: Activities of NAD-dependent MDHs have been detected in mitochondria, peroxisomes, cytosol and plastids, respectively. In addition, chloroplasts possess a NADP-dependent MDH isoform. The NADP-MDH as part of the "light malate valve" plays an important role as a poising mechanism to adjust the ATP/NADPH ratio in the stroma. Its activity is strictly regulated by post-translational redox-modification mediated via the ferredoxin-thioredoxin system and fine control via the NADP + /NADP(H) ratio, thereby maintaining redox homeostasis under changing conditions. In contrast, the plastid NAD-MDH ("dark malate valve") is constitutively active and its lack leads to failure in early embryo development. While redox regulation of the main cytosolic MDH isoform has been shown, the knowledge about regulation of the other two cytosolic MDHs as well as NAD-MDH isoforms from peroxisomes and mitochondria is still lacking. Knockout mutants lacking the isoforms from chloroplasts, mitochondria, and peroxisomes have been characterized, but not much is known about cytosolic NAD-MDH isoforms and their role in planta. This review updates the current knowledge on MDH isoforms and the shuttle systems for intercompartmental dicarboxylate exchange focusing on the various metabolic functions of these valves. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Occupational and environmental lead exposure to adolescent workers in battery recycling workshops.

PubMed

Kazi, Tasneem Gul; Shah, Faheem; Afridi, Hassan Imran; Naeemullah

2015-12-01

Lead (Pb), as other environmental neurotoxicant substances, has the capability to interfere with many biochemical events present in cells throughout the body. In the present study, the environmental and occupational exposure to Pb has been assessed by analyzing the scalp hair samples of male adolescents aged 12-15 years, who have worked for the last 12-36 months in Pb battery recycling workshops (BRWs). For comparative purposes, gender and age-matched subjects living in the vicinity of recycling workshops as well as in areas without industrial activity were used as controls. The scalp hair samples were oxidized by acid in a microwave oven prior to determination of Pb by electrothermal atomic absorption spectrometry. The results indicated that both workers and nonworking exposed subjects had higher levels of Pb than nonexposed controls. The contents of Pb in scalp hair of adolescent workers in the present study were compared with those reported in other studies. © The Author(s) 2013.

Simultaneous determination of amino acids and carbohydrates in culture media of Clostridium thermocellum by valve-switching ion chromatography.

PubMed

Fa, Yun; Yang, Haiyan; Ji, Chengshuai; Cui, He; Zhu, Xinshu; Du, Juan; Gao, Jun

2013-10-10

An improved method for the simultaneous determination of 20 amino acids and 7 carbohydrates using one-valve switching after injection, ion chromatography, and integrated pulsed amperometric detection is proposed. The resolution of the amino acids and carbohydrates in the cation trap column was investigated. In addition, parameters including flow liquid type, flow rate, concentration, and valve-switch timing were optimized. The method is time-saving, effective, and accurate for the simultaneous separation of amino acids and carbohydrates, with a mean correlation coefficient of >0.99 and repeatability of 0.5-4.6% for eight replicates. The method was successfully applied in the analysis of amino acids and carbohydrates in aseptic media and in extracellular culture media of three phenotypes of Clostridium thermocellum. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Embryonic Ethanol Exposure Dysregulates BMP and Notch Signaling, Leading to Persistent Atrio-Ventricular Valve Defects in Zebrafish

PubMed Central

Sarmah, Swapnalee; Muralidharan, Pooja

2016-01-01

Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD), birth defects associated with ethanol exposure in utero, includes a wide spectrum of congenital heart defects (CHDs), the most prevalent of which are septal and conotruncal defects. Zebrafish FASD model was used to dissect the mechanisms underlying FASD-associated CHDs. Embryonic ethanol exposure (3–24 hours post fertilization) led to defects in atrio-ventricular (AV) valvulogenesis beginning around 37 hpf, a morphogenetic event that arises long after ethanol withdrawal. Valve leaflets of the control embryos comprised two layers of cells confined at the compact atrio-ventricular canal (AVC). Ethanol treated embryos had extended AVC and valve forming cells were found either as rows of cells spanning the AVC or as unorganized clusters near the AV boundary. Ethanol exposure reduced valve precursors at the AVC, but some ventricular cells in ethanol treated embryos exhibited few characteristics of valve precursors. Late staged larvae and juvenile fish exposed to ethanol during embryonic development had faulty AV valves. Examination of AVC morphogenesis regulatory networks revealed that early ethanol exposure disrupted the Bmp signaling gradient in the heart during valve formation. Bmp signaling was prominent at the AVC in controls, but ethanol-exposed embryos displayed active Bmp signaling throughout the ventricle. Ethanol exposure also led to mislocalization of Notch signaling cells in endocardium during AV valve formation. Normally, highly active Notch signaling cells were organized at the AVC. In ethanol-exposed embryos, highly active Notch signaling cells were dispersed throughout the ventricle. At later stages, ethanol-exposed embryos exhibited reduced Wnt/β-catenin activity at the AVC. We conclude that early embryonic ethanol exposure alters Bmp, Notch and other signaling activities during AVC differentiation leading to faulty valve morphogenesis and valve defects persist in juvenile fish. PMID:27556898

Embryonic Ethanol Exposure Dysregulates BMP and Notch Signaling, Leading to Persistent Atrio-Ventricular Valve Defects in Zebrafish.

PubMed

Sarmah, Swapnalee; Muralidharan, Pooja; Marrs, James A

2016-01-01

Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD), birth defects associated with ethanol exposure in utero, includes a wide spectrum of congenital heart defects (CHDs), the most prevalent of which are septal and conotruncal defects. Zebrafish FASD model was used to dissect the mechanisms underlying FASD-associated CHDs. Embryonic ethanol exposure (3-24 hours post fertilization) led to defects in atrio-ventricular (AV) valvulogenesis beginning around 37 hpf, a morphogenetic event that arises long after ethanol withdrawal. Valve leaflets of the control embryos comprised two layers of cells confined at the compact atrio-ventricular canal (AVC). Ethanol treated embryos had extended AVC and valve forming cells were found either as rows of cells spanning the AVC or as unorganized clusters near the AV boundary. Ethanol exposure reduced valve precursors at the AVC, but some ventricular cells in ethanol treated embryos exhibited few characteristics of valve precursors. Late staged larvae and juvenile fish exposed to ethanol during embryonic development had faulty AV valves. Examination of AVC morphogenesis regulatory networks revealed that early ethanol exposure disrupted the Bmp signaling gradient in the heart during valve formation. Bmp signaling was prominent at the AVC in controls, but ethanol-exposed embryos displayed active Bmp signaling throughout the ventricle. Ethanol exposure also led to mislocalization of Notch signaling cells in endocardium during AV valve formation. Normally, highly active Notch signaling cells were organized at the AVC. In ethanol-exposed embryos, highly active Notch signaling cells were dispersed throughout the ventricle. At later stages, ethanol-exposed embryos exhibited reduced Wnt/β-catenin activity at the AVC. We conclude that early embryonic ethanol exposure alters Bmp, Notch and other signaling activities during AVC differentiation leading to faulty valve morphogenesis and valve defects persist in juvenile fish.

Characterization, performance, and prediction of a lead-acid battery under simulated electric vehicle driving requirements

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ewashinka, J. G.; Bozek, J. M.

1981-01-01

A state-of-the-art 6-V battery module in current use by the electric vehicle industry was tested at the NASA Lewis Research Center to determine its performance characteristics under the SAE J227a driving schedules B, C, and D. The primary objective of the tests was to determine the effects of periods of recuperation and long and short periods of electrical regeneration in improving the performance of the battery module and hence extendng the vehicle range. A secondary objective was to formulate a computer program that would predict the performance of this battery module for the above driving schedules. The results show excellent correlation between the laboratory tests and predicted results. The predicted performance compared with laboratory tests was within +2.4 to -3.7 percent for the D schedule, +0.5 to -7.1 percent for the C schedule, and better than -11.4 percent for the B schedule.

Characterization, performance, and prediction of a lead-acid battery under simulated electric vehicle driving requirements

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ewashinka, J. G.; Bozek, J. M.

1981-05-01

A state-of-the-art 6-V battery module in current use by the electric vehicle industry was tested at the NASA Lewis Research Center to determine its performance characteristics under the SAE J227a driving schedules B, C, and D. The primary objective of the tests was to determine the effects of periods of recuperation and long and short periods of electrical regeneration in improving the performance of the battery module and hence extendng the vehicle range. A secondary objective was to formulate a computer program that would predict the performance of this battery module for the above driving schedules. The results show excellent correlation between the laboratory tests and predicted results. The predicted performance compared with laboratory tests was within +2.4 to -3.7 percent for the D schedule, +0.5 to -7.1 percent for the C schedule, and better than -11.4 percent for the B schedule.

Battery electrode growth accommodation

DOEpatents

Bowen, Gerald K.; Andrew, Michael G.; Eskra, Michael D.

1992-01-01

An electrode for a lead acid flow through battery, the grids including a plastic frame, a plate suspended from the top of the frame to hang freely in the plastic frame and a paste applied to the plate, the paste being free to allow for expansion in the planar direction of the grid.

Lead exposure among small-scale battery recyclers, automobile radiator mechanics, and their children in Manila, the Philippines

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Suplido, M.L.; Ong, C.N.

2000-03-01

Blood lead (PbB) and hemoglobin levels (Hb) were determined in 40 battery repair/recycling shop workers, 16 radiator repair shop workers, and 20 children living in the immediate vicinity of these shops. Unexposed residents with similar socio-economic status were also investigated. Mean PbB level was significantly higher for battery workers when compared to radiator workers and unexposed adults. Among battery workers, 94% had PbB levels above the WHO permissible exposure limit of 40 {micro}g/dL for males and 30 {micro}g/dL for females. There was no demarcation between workplace and living quarters; therefore, workers' families were similarly exposed to hazards. Children living inmore » the immediate vicinity of battery shops also had significantly higher mean PbB levels compared to radiator shop children and unexposed children. For workers with PbB > 40 {micro}g/dL, 90% were anemic. Linear regression showed a correlation between Hb level and log{sub 10}PbB. There was no significant relationship between anemia and blood lead in children. The authors conclude that radiator repair activities appeared to increase the body burden of lead, although not up to a level significantly different from unexposed counterparts. Battery recycling/repair activities, however, significantly increased blood lead levels in workers and their children.« less

Intraluminal valves: development, function and disease

PubMed Central

Geng, Xin; Cha, Boksik; Mahamud, Md. Riaj

2017-01-01

ABSTRACT The circulatory system consists of the heart, blood vessels and lymphatic vessels, which function in parallel to provide nutrients and remove waste from the body. Vascular function depends on valves, which regulate unidirectional fluid flow against gravitational and pressure gradients. Severe valve disorders can cause mortality and some are associated with severe morbidity. Although cardiac valve defects can be treated by valve replacement surgery, no treatment is currently available for valve disorders of the veins and lymphatics. Thus, a better understanding of valves, their development and the progression of valve disease is warranted. In the past decade, molecules that are important for vascular function in humans have been identified, with mouse studies also providing new insights into valve formation and function. Intriguing similarities have recently emerged between the different types of valves concerning their molecular identity, architecture and development. Shear stress generated by fluid flow has also been shown to regulate endothelial cell identity in valves. Here, we review our current understanding of valve development with an emphasis on its mechanobiology and significance to human health, and highlight unanswered questions and translational opportunities. PMID:29125824

The Basel Convention: effect on the Asian secondary lead industry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Elmer, J. W.

The Basel Convention has had a dramatic effect on the world trade in scrap materials. The scope of implementation is broader than was originally intended. This is due mainly to uncertainties created by a failure to distinguish between waste for disposal and waste destined for recycling. Spent lead/acid batteries and other lead scrap flows from OECD to non-OECD countries have been restricted to the point where secondary lead production is being affected. Export-import flows between OECD members have also changed as recycling is being contained within those countries. The economics of recycling in OECD countries may result in a smaller percentage of scrap being recycled. The established lead/acid battery industry in the Asian region, which relies heavily on imported scrap, will now be forced to import more finished metal, to maintain output. With strong economic growth forecast for the region, and no substitute for the lead-based battery, the supply situation is unlikely to ease.

THERMALLY OPERATED VAPOR VALVE

DOEpatents

Dorward, J.G. Jr.

1959-02-10

A valve is presented for use in a calutron to supply and control the vapor to be ionized. The invention provides a means readily operable from the exterior of the vacuum tank of the apparatuss without mechanical transmission of forces for the quick and accurate control of the ionizing arc by a corresponding control of gas flow theretos thereby producing an effective way of carefully regulating the operation of the calutron. The invention consists essentially of a tube member extending into the charge bottle of a calutron devices having a poppet type valve closing the lower end of the tube. An electrical heating means is provided in the valve stem to thermally vary the length of the stem to regulate the valve opening to control the flow of material from the charge bottle.

75 FR 23263 - Agency Information Collection Activities; Submission to OMB for Review and Approval; Comment...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-05-03

... Approval; Comment Request; NSPS for Lead Acid Battery Manufacturing (Renewal) AGENCY: Environmental... electronic docket, go to http://www.regulations.gov . Title: NSPS for Lead Acid Battery Manufacturing... Battery Manufacturing (40 CFR part 60, subpart KK) were proposed on January 14, 1980, and promulgated on...

Battery paste compositions and electrochemical cells for use therewith

DOEpatents

Olson, John B.

1999-12-07

An improved battery paste composition and a lead-acid electrochemical cell which incorporates the composition. The cell includes a positive current collector and a negative current collector which are each coated with a paste containing one or more lead-containing compositions and a paste vehicle to form a positive plate and a negative plate. An absorbent electrolyte-containing separator member may also be positioned between the positive and negative plates. The paste on the positive current collector, the negative current collector, or both further includes a special additive consisting of polyvinylsulfonic acid or salts thereof which provides many benefits including improved battery cycle life, increased charge capacity, and enhanced overall stability. The additive also makes the pastes smoother and more adhesive, thereby improving the paste application process. The paste compositions of interest may be used in conventional flat-plate cells or in spirally wound batteries with equal effectiveness.

Battery paste compositions and electrochemical cells for use therewith

DOEpatents

Olson, John B.

1999-02-16

An improved battery paste composition and a lead-acid electrochemical cell which incorporates the composition. The cell includes a positive current collector and a negative current collector which are each coated with a paste containing one or more lead-containing compositions and a paste vehicle to form a positive plate and a negative plate. An absorbent electrolyte-containing separator member may also be positioned between the positive and negative plates. The paste on the positive current collector, the negative current collector, or both further includes a special additive consisting of polyvinylsulfonic acid or salts thereof which provides many benefits including improved battery cycle life, increased charge capacity, and enhanced overall stability. The additive also makes the pastes smoother and more adhesive, thereby improving the paste application process. The paste compositions of interest may be used in conventional flat-plate cells or in spirally wound batteries with equal effectiveness.

Multi-Element Unstructured Analyses of Complex Valve Systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sulyma, Peter (Technical Monitor); Ahuja, Vineet; Hosangadi, Ashvin; Shipman, Jeremy

2004-01-01

The safe and reliable operation of high pressure test stands for rocket engine and component testing places an increased emphasis on the performance of control valves and flow metering devices. In this paper, we will present a series of high fidelity computational analyses of systems ranging from cryogenic control valves and pressure regulator systems to cavitating venturis that are used to support rocket engine and component testing at NASA Stennis Space Center. A generalized multi-element framework with sub-models for grid adaption, grid movement and multi-phase flow dynamics has been used to carry out the simulations. Such a framework provides the flexibility of resolving the structural and functional complexities that are typically associated with valve-based high pressure feed systems and have been difficult to deal with traditional CFD methods. Our simulations revealed a rich variety of flow phenomena such as secondary flow patterns, hydrodynamic instabilities, fluctuating vapor pockets etc. In the paper, we will discuss performance losses related to cryogenic control valves, and provide insight into the physics of the dominant multi-phase fluid transport phenomena that are responsible for the choking like behavior in cryogenic control elements. Additionally, we will provide detailed analyses of the modal instability that is observed in the operation of the dome pressure regulator valve. Such instabilities are usually not localized and manifest themselves as a system wide phenomena leading to an undesirable chatter at high flow conditions.

Effects of Lead Exposure and Genetic Polymorphisms on ALAD and GPx Activities in Brazilian Battery Workers.

PubMed

da Cunha Martins, Airton; Mazzaron Barcelos, Gustavo Rafael; Jacob Ferreira, Anna Laura Bechara; de Souza, Marilesia Ferreira; de Syllos Cólus, Ilce Mara; Antunes, Lusânia Maria Greggi; Bastos Paoliello, Monica Maria; Adeyemi, Joseph A; Barbosa, Fernando

2015-01-01

Lead (Pb) is a toxic metal that is widely used by metallurgical industries such as car battery recycling. Exposure to the metal may modify the redox status of the cells and consequently result in changes in activities of important enzymes such as delta-aminolevulinic acid dehydratase (ALAD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx). Similarly, genetic polymorphisms may modulate the activities of enzymes related to detoxification processes of the metal and may modify Pb body burden. Therefore, the aims of the present study were (i) to evaluate the correlation between blood lead levels (BLL) and activities of the enzymes ALAD and GPx, and (ii) to determine whether activities of these enzymes may be influenced by polymorphisms in ALAD and GPx genes in Brazilian automotive battery workers chronically exposed to Pb, as well as the effects of these polymorphisms on BLL. Our study included 257 participants; BLL were determined by inductively couple plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), and the activities of the enzymes ALAD and GPx were quantified spectrophotometrically; and genotyping of ALAD (rs1800435) and GPx-1 (rs1800668) polymorphisms was performed by TaqMan assays (real-time polymerase chain reaction, RT-PCR). Significant negative correlations were found between BLL and ALAD activity. Subjects who carried at least one polymorphic allele for ALAD gene displayed markedly lower ALAD activities, while no significant effect was observed regarding GPx-1 polymorphism and activity of the same enzyme. Further, ALAD and GPx-1 polymorphisms exerted no marked influence on BLL. Taken together, our results showed that BLL affected ALAD but not GPx activities, and these were not modulated by polymorphisms in ALAD and GPx gene. Further, the rs1800435 SNP showed a tendency to modulate ALAD activity, while the rs1800668 SNP did not modulate GPx activity in Brazilian automotive battery workers exposed to Pb.

Studies on mathematical modeling of the leaching process in order to efficiently recover lead from the sulfate/oxide lead paste.

PubMed

Buzatu, Traian; Ghica, Gabriel Valeriu; Petrescu, Ionuţ Mircea; Iacob, Gheorghe; Buzatu, Mihai; Niculescu, Florentina

2017-02-01

Increasing global lead consumption has been mainly supported by the acid battery manufacturing industry. As the lead demand will continue to grow, to provide the necessary lead will require an efficient approach to recycling lead acid batteries. In this paper was performed a mathematical modeling of the process parameters for lead recovery from spent lead-acid batteries. The results of the mathematical modeling compare well with the experimental data. The experimental method applied consists in the solubilisation of the sulfate/oxide paste with sodium hydroxide solutions followed by electrolytic processing for lead recovery. The parameters taken into considerations were NaOH molarity (4M, 6M and 8M), solid/liquid ratio - S/L (1/10, 1/30 and 1/50) and temperature (40°C, 60°C and 80°C). The optimal conditions resulted by mathematical modeling of the electrolytic process of lead deposition from alkaline solutions have been established by using a second-order orthogonal program, in order to obtain a maximum efficiency of current without exceeding an imposed energy specific consumption. The optimum value for the leaching recovery efficiency, obtained through mathematical modeling, was 89.647%, with an error of δ y =3.623 which leads to a maximum recovery efficiency of 86.024%. The optimum values for each variable that ensure the lead extraction efficiency equal to 89.647% are the following: 3M - NaOH, 1/35 - S/L, 70°C - temperature. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Exposures of lead to adolescent workers in battery recycling workshops and surrounding communities.

PubMed

Shah, Faheem; Kazi, Tasneem Gul; Afridi, Hassan Imran; Naeemullah; Arain, Sadaf Sadia

2012-11-01

In the present study, the environmental and occupational exposure of lead (Pb) has been assessed by analyzing the whole-blood samples of early adolescents (boys) aged 12-15 years working for the past 1-3 years in battery recycling workshops (BRW). For comparative purpose, boys of the same age group residing in the vicinity of BRW (exposed non-workers) and who lived in domestic areas devoid of any industrial activity (referents boys) were selected. The blood samples were analyzed for Pb, along with biochemical parameters of blood. Both biological samples were oxidized by acid in a microwave oven before determination of Pb by graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry. The mean value of Pb concentration in blood samples of working boys was threefold higher as compared with referent boys. The significant negative correlations of blood Pb level with % Hb (r=-0.862) were observed in working boys.

Exploring Faraday's Law of Electrolysis Using Zinc-Air Batteries with Current Regulative Diodes

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kamata, Masahiro; Paku, Miei

2007-01-01

Current regulative diodes (CRDs) are applied to develop new educational experiments on Faraday's law by using a zinc-air battery (PR2330) and a resistor to discharge it. The results concluded that the combination of zinc-air batteries and the CRD array is simpler, less expensive, and quantitative and gives accurate data.

Positive matrix factorization as source apportionment of soil lead and cadmium around a battery plant (Changxing County, China).

PubMed

Xue, Jian-long; Zhi, Yu-you; Yang, Li-ping; Shi, Jia-chun; Zeng, Ling-zao; Wu, Lao-sheng

2014-06-01

Chemical compositions of soil samples are multivariate in nature and provide datasets suitable for the application of multivariate factor analytical techniques. One of the analytical techniques, the positive matrix factorization (PMF), uses a weighted least square by fitting the data matrix to determine the weights of the sources based on the error estimates of each data point. In this research, PMF was employed to apportion the sources of heavy metals in 104 soil samples taken within a 1-km radius of a lead battery plant contaminated site in Changxing County, Zhejiang Province, China. The site is heavily contaminated with high concentrations of lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd). PMF successfully partitioned the variances into sources related to soil background, agronomic practices, and the lead battery plants combined with a geostatistical approach. It was estimated that the lead battery plants and the agronomic practices contributed 55.37 and 29.28%, respectively, for soil Pb of the total source. Soil Cd mainly came from the lead battery plants (65.92%), followed by the agronomic practices (21.65%), and soil parent materials (12.43%). This research indicates that PMF combined with geostatistics is a useful tool for source identification and apportionment.

Thermostatic Valves Containing Silicone-Oil Actuators

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bhandari, Pradeep; Birur, Gajanana C.; Bame, David P.; Karlmann, Paul B.; Prina, Mauro; Young, William; Fisher, Richard

2009-01-01

Flow-splitting and flow-mixing thermally actuated spool valves have been developed for controlling flows of a heat-transfer fluid in a temperature-regulation system aboard the Mars Science Laboratory (MSL) rover. Valves like these could also be useful in terrestrial temperature-regulation systems, including automobile air-conditioning systems and general refrigeration systems. These valves are required to provide smoother actuation over a wider temperature range than the flow-splitting, thermally actuated spool valves used in the Mars Explorer Rover (MER). Also, whereas the MER valves are unstable (tending to oscillate) in certain transition temperature ranges, these valves are required not to oscillate. The MER valves are actuated by thermal expansion of a wax against spring-loaded piston rods (as in common automotive thermostats). The MSL valves contain similar actuators that utilize thermal expansion of a silicone oil, because silicone-oil actuators were found to afford greater and more nearly linear displacements, needed for smoother actuation, over the required wider temperature range. The MSL valves also feature improved spool designs that reflect greater understanding of fluid dynamics, consideration of pressure drops in valves, and a requirement for balancing of pressures in different flow branches.

A New Hybrid Proton-Exchange-Membrane Fuel Cells-Battery Power System with Efficiencies Considered

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chao, Chung-Hsing; Shieh, Jenn-Jong

Hybrid systems, based on lead-acid or lithium-ion batteries and proton-exchange-membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs), give the possibility of combining the benefit of both technologies. The merits of high energy density and power density for different applications are discussed in this paper in recognition of the practical realization of such hybrid power systems. Furthermore, experimental data for such a hybrid system is described and the results are shown and discussed. The results show that the combination of lead-acid batteries or lithium-ion batteries and PEMFCs shows advantages in cases of applications with high peak power requirements, such as electric scooters and applications where the fuel cell (FC) is used as an auxiliary power-supply to recharge the battery. The high efficiency of FCs operating with a partial load results in a good fuel economy for the purpose of recharging batteries within a FC system.

A self-defeating anabolic program leads to β-cell apoptosis in endoplasmic reticulum stress-induced diabetes via regulation of amino acid flux.

PubMed

Krokowski, Dawid; Han, Jaeseok; Saikia, Mridusmita; Majumder, Mithu; Yuan, Celvie L; Guan, Bo-Jhih; Bevilacqua, Elena; Bussolati, Ovidio; Bröer, Stefan; Arvan, Peter; Tchórzewski, Marek; Snider, Martin D; Puchowicz, Michelle; Croniger, Colleen M; Kimball, Scot R; Pan, Tao; Koromilas, Antonis E; Kaufman, Randal J; Hatzoglou, Maria

2013-06-14

Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress-induced responses are associated with the loss of insulin-producing β-cells in type 2 diabetes mellitus. β-Cell survival during ER stress is believed to depend on decreased protein synthesis rates that are mediated via phosphorylation of the translation initiation factor eIF2α. It is reported here that chronic ER stress correlated with increased islet protein synthesis and apoptosis in β-cells in vivo. Paradoxically, chronic ER stress in β-cells induced an anabolic transcription program to overcome translational repression by eIF2α phosphorylation. This program included expression of amino acid transporter and aminoacyl-tRNA synthetase genes downstream of the stress-induced ATF4-mediated transcription program. The anabolic response was associated with increased amino acid flux and charging of tRNAs for branched chain and aromatic amino acids (e.g. leucine and tryptophan), the levels of which are early serum indicators of diabetes. We conclude that regulation of amino acid transport in β-cells during ER stress involves responses leading to increased protein synthesis, which can be protective during acute stress but can lead to apoptosis during chronic stress. These studies suggest that the increased expression of amino acid transporters in islets can serve as early diagnostic biomarkers for the development of diabetes.

PMMA/PDMS valves and pumps for disposable microfluidics.

PubMed

Zhang, Wenhua; Lin, Shuichao; Wang, Chunming; Hu, Jia; Li, Cong; Zhuang, Zhixia; Zhou, Yongliang; Mathies, Richard A; Yang, Chaoyong James

2009-11-07

Poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) is gaining in popularity in microfluidic devices because of its low cost, excellent optical transparency, attractive mechanical/chemical properties, and simple fabrication procedures. It has been used to fabricate micromixers, PCR reactors, CE and many other microdevices. Here we present the design, fabrication, characterization and application of pneumatic microvalves and micropumps based on PMMA. Valves and pumps are fabricated by sandwiching a PDMS membrane between PMMA fluidic channel and manifold wafers. Valve closing or opening can be controlled by adjusting the pressure in a displacement chamber on the pneumatic layer via a computer regulated solenoid. The valve provides up to 15.4 microL s(-1) at 60 kPa fluid pressure and seals reliably against forward fluid pressure as high as 60 kPa. A PMMA diaphragm pump can be assembled by simply connecting three valves in series. By varying valve volume or opening time, pumping rates ranging from nL to microL per second can be accurately achieved. The PMMA based valves and pumps were further tested in a disposable automatic nucleic acid extraction microchip to extract DNA from human whole blood. The DNA extraction efficiency was about 25% and the 260 nm/280 nm UV absorption ratio for extracted DNA was 1.72. Because of its advantages of inexpensive, facile fabrication, robust and easy integration, the PMMA valve and pump will find their wide application for fluidic manipulation in portable and disposable microfluidic devices.

Battery thermal management unit

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sanders, Nicholas A.

1989-03-01

A battery warming device has been designed which uses waste heat from an operating internal combustion engine to warm a battery. A portion of the waste heat is stored in the sensible and latent heat of a phase change type material for use in maintaining the battery temperature after the engine is shut off. The basic design of the device consists of a Phase Change Material (PCM) reservoir and a simple heat exchanger connected to the engineer's cooling system. Two types of units were built, tested and field trialed. A strap-on type which was strapped to the side of an automotive battery and was intended for the automotive after-market and a tray type on which a battery or batteries sat. This unit was intended for the heavy duty truck market. It was determined that both types of units increased the average cranking power of the batteries they were applied to. Although there were several design problems with the units such as the need for an automatic thermostatically controlled bypass valve, the overall feeling is that there is a market opportunity for both the strap-on and tray type battery warming units.

Programmable valve shunts: are they really better?

PubMed

Kataria, Rashim; Kumar, Vimal; Mehta, Veer Singh

2012-01-01

Programmable valve shunts allows selection of opening pressure of shunt valve. In the presented article, a unique complication pertaining to programmable shunts has been discussed. A 5-year-old boy who had tectal plate low grade glioma with obstructive hydrocephalus was managed with Codman programmable ventriculoperitoneal shunt. There was a spontaneous change in the opening pressure of the shunt valve leading to shunt malfunction. Routinely used household appliances produce a magnetic field strong enough to cause change in the setting of shunt valve pressure and may lead to valve malfunction. Other causes of programmable valve malfunction also discussed.

Battery paste compositions and electrochemical cells for use therewith

DOEpatents

Olson, J.B.

1999-02-16

An improved battery paste composition and a lead-acid electrochemical cell which incorporates the composition are disclosed. The cell includes a positive current collector and a negative current collector which are each coated with a paste containing one or more lead-containing compositions and a paste vehicle to form a positive plate and a negative plate. An absorbent electrolyte-containing separator member may also be positioned between the positive and negative plates. The paste on the positive current collector, the negative current collector, or both further includes a special additive consisting of polyvinyl sulfonic acid or salts thereof which provides many benefits including improved battery cycle life, increased charge capacity, and enhanced overall stability. The additive also makes the pastes smoother and more adhesive, thereby improving the paste application process. The paste compositions of interest may be used in conventional flat-plate cells or in spirally wound batteries with equal effectiveness. 2 figs.

Conical Seat Shut-Off Valve

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Farner, Bruce

2013-01-01

A moveable valve for controlling flow of a pressurized working fluid was designed. This valve consists of a hollow, moveable floating piston pressed against a stationary solid seat, and can use the working fluid to seal the valve. This open/closed, novel valve is able to use metal-to-metal seats, without requiring seat sliding action; therefore there are no associated damaging effects. During use, existing standard high-pressure ball valve seats tend to become damaged during rotation of the ball. Additionally, forces acting on the ball and stem create large amounts of friction. The combination of these effects can lead to system failure. In an attempt to reduce damaging effects and seat failures, soft seats in the ball valve have been eliminated; however, the sliding action of the ball across the highly loaded seat still tends to scratch the seat, causing failure. Also, in order to operate, ball valves require the use of large actuators. Positioning the metal-to-metal seats requires more loading, which tends to increase the size of the required actuator, and can also lead to other failures in other areas such as the stem and bearing mechanisms, thus increasing cost and maintenance. This novel non-sliding seat surface valve allows metal-to-metal seats without the damaging effects that can lead to failure, and enables large seating forces without damaging the valve. Additionally, this valve design, even when used with large, high-pressure applications, does not require large conventional valve actuators and the valve stem itself is eliminated. Actuation is achieved with the use of a small, simple solenoid valve. This design also eliminates the need for many seals used with existing ball valve and globe valve designs, which commonly cause failure, too. This, coupled with the elimination of the valve stem and conventional valve actuator, improves valve reliability and seat life. Other mechanical liftoff seats have been designed; however, they have only resulted in

Supercritical carbon dioxide-based sterilization of decellularized heart valves

PubMed Central

Hennessy, Ryan S.; Jana, Soumen; Tefft, Brandon J.; Helder, Meghana R.; Young, Melissa D.; Hennessy, Rebecca R.; Stoyles, Nicholas J.; Lerman, Amir

2017-01-01

Objective The goal of this research project encompasses finding the most efficient and effective method of decellularized tissue sterilization. Background Aortic tissue grafts have been utilized to repair damaged or diseased valves. Although, the tissues for grafting are collected aseptically, it does not eradicate the risk of contamination nor disease transfer. Thus, sterilization of grafts is mandatory. Several techniques have been applied to sterilize grafts; however, each technique shows drawbacks. In this study, we compared several sterilization techniques: supercritical carbon dioxide, electrolyzed water, gamma radiation, ethanol-peracetic acid, and hydrogen peroxide for impact on the sterility and mechanical integrity of porcine decellularized aortic valves. Methods Valve sterility was characterized by histology, microbe culture, and electron microscopy. Uniaxial tensile testing was conducted on the valve cusps along their circumferential orientation to study these sterilization techniques on their integrity. Results Ethanol-peracetic acid and supercritical carbon dioxide treated valves were found to be sterile. The tensile strength of supercritical carbon dioxide treated valves (4.28 ± 0.22 MPa) was higher to those valves treated with electrolyzed water, gamma radiation, ethanol-peracetic acid and hydrogen peroxide (1.02 ± 0.15, 1.25 ± 0.25, 3.53 ± 0.41 and 0.37 ± 0.04 MPa, respectively). Conclusions Superior sterility and integrity were found in the decellularized porcine aortic valves with supercritical carbon dioxide sterilization. This sterilization technique may hold promise for other decellularized soft tissues. Summary Sterilization of grafts is essential. Supercritical carbon dioxide, electrolyzed water, gamma radiation, ethanol-peracetic acid, and hydrogen peroxide techniques were compared for impact on sterility and mechanical integrity of porcine decellularized aortic valves. Ethanol-peracetic acid and supercritical carbon dioxide treated

Supercritical carbon dioxide-based sterilization of decellularized heart valves.

PubMed

Hennessy, Ryan S; Jana, Soumen; Tefft, Brandon J; Helder, Meghana R; Young, Melissa D; Hennessy, Rebecca R; Stoyles, Nicholas J; Lerman, Amir

2017-02-01

The goal of this research project encompasses finding the most efficient and effective method of decellularized tissue sterilization. Aortic tissue grafts have been utilized to repair damaged or diseased valves. Although, the tissues for grafting are collected aseptically, it does not eradicate the risk of contamination nor disease transfer. Thus, sterilization of grafts is mandatory. Several techniques have been applied to sterilize grafts; however, each technique shows drawbacks. In this study, we compared several sterilization techniques: supercritical carbon dioxide, electrolyzed water, gamma radiation, ethanol-peracetic acid, and hydrogen peroxide for impact on the sterility and mechanical integrity of porcine decellularized aortic valves. Valve sterility was characterized by histology, microbe culture, and electron microscopy. Uniaxial tensile testing was conducted on the valve cusps along their circumferential orientation to study these sterilization techniques on their integrity. Ethanol-peracetic acid and supercritical carbon dioxide treated valves were found to be sterile. The tensile strength of supercritical carbon dioxide treated valves (4.28 ± 0.22 MPa) was higher to those valves treated with electrolyzed water, gamma radiation, ethanol-peracetic acid and hydrogen peroxide (1.02 ± 0.15, 1.25 ± 0.25, 3.53 ± 0.41 and 0.37 ± 0.04 MPa, respectively). Superior sterility and integrity were found in the decellularized porcine aortic valves with supercritical carbon dioxide sterilization. This sterilization technique may hold promise for other decellularized soft tissues. Sterilization of grafts is essential. Supercritical carbon dioxide, electrolyzed water, gamma radiation, ethanol-peracetic acid, and hydrogen peroxide techniques were compared for impact on sterility and mechanical integrity of porcine decellularized aortic valves. Ethanol-peracetic acid and supercritical carbon dioxide treated valves were found to be sterile using histology, microbe

Biochemical effects of lead exposure on oxidative stress and antioxidant status of battery manufacturing workers of Western Maharashtra, India.

PubMed

Ghanwat, Ganesh Haribhau; Patil, Arun Jalindar; Patil, Jyotsna A; Kshirsagar, Mandakini S; Sontakke, Ajit; Ayachit, Ram Krishna

2016-03-01

Lead induces oxidative stress and alters the antioxidant status of population exposed to high lead levels, i.e. battery manufacturing workers. The aim of this study was to know the current scenario of blood lead (PbB) levels and their effect on the oxidative stress parameter, i.e. serum lipid peroxide (LP), and antioxidant parameters, such as red blood cell (RBC)-superoxide dismutase (SOD), RBC-catalase (CAT), plasma ceruloplasmin (CP), and serum nitrite, of battery manufacturing workers. Forty-three battery manufacturing workers from Western Maharashtra, India, with ages between 19 and 42 years, were selected as study group and compared with 38 age-matched, healthy male subjects (control group). From both group subjects, 10 mL of blood sample was drawn by puncturing the antecubital vein, and PbB, serum LP, RBC-SOD, RBC-CAT, plasma CP, and serum nitrite were estimated using standard methods. The PbB levels of the battery manufacturing workers were significantly higher (p<0.001, 1050%) as compared with the control subjects. The serum LP levels were significantly increased (p<0.001, 96.86%); all antioxidant status parameters such as RBC-SOD (p<0.001, -26.32%), RBC-CAT (p<0.001, -51.57%), and plasma CP (p<0.001, -35.13%) were significantly decreased; and serum nitrite levels (p<0.001, 154%) were significantly increased in the battery manufacturing workers as compared with the control subjects. Despite modern techniques used to reduce lead exposure in battery manufacturing workers, PbB levels remain high, inducing oxidative stress and altering the antioxidant status of battery manufacturing workers.

Regulation of protein synthesis by amino acids in muscle of neonates

PubMed Central

Suryawan, Agus; Davis, Teresa A.

2011-01-01

The marked increase in skeletal muscle mass during the neonatal period is largely due to a high rate of postprandial protein synthesis that is modulated by an enhanced sensitivity to insulin and amino acids. The amino acid signaling pathway leading to the stimulation of protein synthesis has not been fully elucidated. Among the amino acids, leucine is considered to be a principal anabolic agent that regulates protein synthesis. mTORC1, which controls protein synthesis, has been implicated as a target for leucine. Until recently, there have been few studies exploring the role of amino acids in enhancing muscle protein synthesis in vivo. In this review, we discuss amino acid-induced protein synthesis in muscle in the neonate, focusing on current knowledge of the role of amino acids in the activation of mTORC1 leading to mRNA translation. The role of the amino acid transporters, SNAT2, LAT1, and PAT, in the modulation of mTORC1 activation and the role of amino acids in the activation of putative regulators of mTORC1, i.e., raptor, Rheb, MAP4K3, Vps34, and Rag GTPases, are discussed. PMID:21196241

A community-initiated study of blood lead levels of Nicaraguan children living near a battery factory.

PubMed Central

Morales Bonilla, C; Mauss, E A

1998-01-01

OBJECTIVES: In response to requests by parents in Managua, Nicaragua, whose neighborhood borders a battery factory, 97 children were tested for blood lead, as were 30 children in a neighborhood without an obvious source of environmental lead. METHODS: Venous blood was examined by atomic absorption spectrophotometry. Educational workshops were conducted. RESULTS: Mean blood lead levels were 17.21 +/- 9.92 micrograms/dL in the index children and 7.40 +/- 5.37 micrograms/dL in the controls (P < .001). CONCLUSIONS: Children living near the battery factory are at increased risk of lead poisoning. The parents were able to petition the government to control the factory emissions and to improve appropriate health services. The factory is now closed. PMID:9842385

CHARACTERIZATION OF PRIORITY POLLUTANTS FROM A SECONDARY LEAD AND BATTERY MANUFACTURING FACILITY

EPA Science Inventory

A plant site at which secondary lead is produced from old batteries was sampled utilizing the U.S. EPA protocol for the priority pollutants. The waste treatment plant at this site uses lime and settle techniques to remove pollutants from the wastewater before it is discharged int...

An in situ generated carbon as integrated conductive additive for hierarchical negative plate of lead-acid battery

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Saravanan, M.; Ganesan, M.; Ambalavanan, S.

2014-04-01

In this work, we report an in situ generated carbon from sugar as additive in the Negative Active Mass (NAM) which enhances the charge-discharge characteristics of the lead-acid cells. In situ formed sugar derived carbon (SDC) with leady oxide (LO) provides a conductive network and excellent protection against NAM irreversible lead sulfation. The effect of SDC and carbon black (CB) added negative plates are characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Raman spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), galvanostatic charge-discharge, cyclic voltammetry (CV) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), respectively. The results show that subtle changes in the addition of carbon to NAM led to subsequent changes on the performance during partial-state-of-charge (PSoC) operations in lead-acid cells. Furthermore, SDC added cells exhibit remarkable improvement in the rate capability, active material utilization, cycle performance and charge acceptance compared to that of the conventional CB added cells. The impact of SDC with LO at various synthesis conditions on the electrochemical performance of the negative plate is studied systematically.

40 CFR 60.372 - Standards for lead.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 7 2013-07-01 2013-07-01 false Standards for lead. 60.372 Section 60...) STANDARDS OF PERFORMANCE FOR NEW STATIONARY SOURCES Standards of Performance for Lead-Acid Battery Manufacturing Plants § 60.372 Standards for lead. (a) On and after the date on which the performance test...

40 CFR 60.372 - Standards for lead.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 7 2012-07-01 2012-07-01 false Standards for lead. 60.372 Section 60...) STANDARDS OF PERFORMANCE FOR NEW STATIONARY SOURCES Standards of Performance for Lead-Acid Battery Manufacturing Plants § 60.372 Standards for lead. (a) On and after the date on which the performance test...

40 CFR 60.372 - Standards for lead.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 7 2014-07-01 2014-07-01 false Standards for lead. 60.372 Section 60...) STANDARDS OF PERFORMANCE FOR NEW STATIONARY SOURCES Standards of Performance for Lead-Acid Battery Manufacturing Plants § 60.372 Standards for lead. (a) On and after the date on which the performance test...

40 CFR 60.372 - Standards for lead.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 6 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Standards for lead. 60.372 Section 60...) STANDARDS OF PERFORMANCE FOR NEW STATIONARY SOURCES Standards of Performance for Lead-Acid Battery Manufacturing Plants § 60.372 Standards for lead. (a) On and after the date on which the performance test...

A rare native mitral valve endocarditis successfully treated after surgical correction

PubMed Central

Garcia, Daniel C; Nascimento, Rhanderson; Soto, Victor; Mendoza, Cesar E

2014-01-01

Mycobacterium abscessus and Kocuria species are rare causes of infections in humans. Endocarditis by these agents has been reported in only 11 cases. M. abscessus is a particularly resistant organism and treatment requires the association of antibiotics for a prolonged period of time. We report a case of native mitral valve bacterial endocarditis due to M. abscessus and Kocuria species in a 48-year-old man with a history of intravenous drug use. The case was complicated by a perforation of the posterior mitral valve leaflet, leading to surgical mitral valve replacement. Cultures from the blood and mitral valve disclosed M. abscessus and Kocuria species. The patient was treated for 6 months with clarithromycin, imipenem and amikacin, with resolution of symptoms. Repeated blood cultures were negative. Acid-fast staining should be done in subacute endocarditis in order to identify rapidly growing mycobacteria. PMID:25270154

Tricuspid valve and percutaneous approach: No longer the forgotten valve!

PubMed

Bouleti, Claire; Juliard, Jean-Michel; Himbert, Dominique; Iung, Bernard; Brochet, Eric; Urena, Marina; Dilly, Marie-Pierre; Ou, Phalla; Nataf, Patrick; Vahanian, Alec

2016-01-01

Tricuspid valve disease is mainly represented by tricuspid regurgitation (TR), which is a predictor of poor outcome. TR is usually secondary, caused by right ventricle pressure or volume overload, the leading cause being left-sided heart valve diseases. Tricuspid surgery for severe TR is recommended during left valve surgery, and consists of either a valve replacement or, most often, a tricuspid repair with or without prosthetic annuloplasty. When TR persists or worsens after left valvular surgery, redo isolated tricuspid surgery is associated with high mortality. In addition, a sizeable proportion of patients present with tricuspid surgery deterioration over time, and need a reintervention, which is associated with high morbi-mortality rates. In this context, and given the recent major breakthrough in the percutaneous treatment of aortic and mitral valve diseases, the tricuspid valve appears an appealing challenge, although it raises specific issues. The first applications of transcatheter techniques for tricuspid valve disease were valve-in-valve and valve-in-ring implantation for degenerated bioprosthesis or ring annuloplasty. Some concerns remain regarding prosthesis sizing, rapid ventricular pacing and the best approach, but these procedures appear to be safe and effective. More recently, bicuspidization using a transcatheter approach for the treatment of native tricuspid valve has been published, in two patients. Finally, other devices are in preclinical development. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

A Self-defeating Anabolic Program Leads to β-Cell Apoptosis in Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress-induced Diabetes via Regulation of Amino Acid Flux*

PubMed Central

Krokowski, Dawid; Han, Jaeseok; Saikia, Mridusmita; Majumder, Mithu; Yuan, Celvie L.; Guan, Bo-Jhih; Bevilacqua, Elena; Bussolati, Ovidio; Bröer, Stefan; Arvan, Peter; Tchórzewski, Marek; Snider, Martin D.; Puchowicz, Michelle; Croniger, Colleen M.; Kimball, Scot R.; Pan, Tao; Koromilas, Antonis E.; Kaufman, Randal J.; Hatzoglou, Maria

2013-01-01

Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress-induced responses are associated with the loss of insulin-producing β-cells in type 2 diabetes mellitus. β-Cell survival during ER stress is believed to depend on decreased protein synthesis rates that are mediated via phosphorylation of the translation initiation factor eIF2α. It is reported here that chronic ER stress correlated with increased islet protein synthesis and apoptosis in β-cells in vivo. Paradoxically, chronic ER stress in β-cells induced an anabolic transcription program to overcome translational repression by eIF2α phosphorylation. This program included expression of amino acid transporter and aminoacyl-tRNA synthetase genes downstream of the stress-induced ATF4-mediated transcription program. The anabolic response was associated with increased amino acid flux and charging of tRNAs for branched chain and aromatic amino acids (e.g. leucine and tryptophan), the levels of which are early serum indicators of diabetes. We conclude that regulation of amino acid transport in β-cells during ER stress involves responses leading to increased protein synthesis, which can be protective during acute stress but can lead to apoptosis during chronic stress. These studies suggest that the increased expression of amino acid transporters in islets can serve as early diagnostic biomarkers for the development of diabetes. PMID:23645676

Epsilon-aminocaproic acid influence in postoperative [corrected] bleeding and hemotransfusion [corrected] in mitral valve surgery.

PubMed

Benfatti, Ricardo Ádala; Carli, Amanda Ferreira; Silva, Guilherme Viotto Rodrigues da; Dias, Amaury Edgardo Mont'serrat Ávila Souza; Goldiano, José Anderson; Pontes, José Carlos Dorsa Vieira

2010-01-01

The epsilon aminocaproic acid is an antifibrinolytic used in cardiovascular surgery to inhibit the fibrinolysis and to reduce the bleeding after CPB. [corrected] To analyze the influence of the using of epsilon aminocaproic acid in the bleeding and in red-cell transfusion requirement in the first twenty-four hours postoperative of mitral valve surgery. Prospective studying, forty-two patients, randomized and divided in two equal groups: group #1 control and group #2--epsilon aminocaproic acid. In Group II were infused five grams of EACA in the induction of anesthesia, after full heparinization, CPB perfusate after reversal of heparin and one hour after the surgery, totaling 25 grams. In group I, saline solution was infused only in those moments. Group #1 showed average bleeding volume of 633.57 ± 305,7 ml, and Group #2, an average of 308.81 ± 210.1 ml, with significant statistic difference (P = 0.0003). Average volume of red-cell transfusion requirement in Groups 1 and 2 was, respectively, 942.86 ± 345.79 ml and 214.29 ± 330.58 ml, with significant difference (P < 0.0001). The epsilon aminocaproic acid was able to reduce the bleeding volume and the red-cell transfusion requirement in the immediate postoperative of patients submitted to mitral valve surgery.

Selection of organic acid leaching reagent for recovery of zinc and manganese from zinc-carbon and alkaline spent batteries

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yuliusman; Amiliana, R. A.; Wulandari, P. T.; Ramadhan, I. T.; Kusumadewi, F. A.

2018-03-01

Zinc-carbon and alkaline batteries are often used in electronic equipment that requires small quantities of power. The waste from these batteries contains valuable metals, such as zinc and manganese, that are needed in many industries and can pollute the environment if not treated properly. This paper concerns the recovery of zinc and manganese metals from zinc-carbon and alkaline spent batteries with leaching method and using organic acid as the environmental friendly leaching reagent. Three different organic acids, namely citric acid, malic acid and aspartic acid, were used as leaching reagents and compared with sulfuric acid as non-organic acid reagents that often used for leaching. The presence of hydrogen peroxide as manganese reducers was investigated for both organic and non-organic leaching reagents. The result showed that citric acid can recover 64.37% Zinc and 51.32% Manganese, while malic acid and aspartic acid could recover less than these. Hydrogen peroxide gave the significant effect for leaching manganese with non-organic acid, but not with organic acid.

Occupational and environmental lead poisoning: case study of a battery recycling smelter in Taiwan.

PubMed

Wang, J D; Soong, W T; Chao, K Y; Hwang, Y H; Jang, C S

1998-07-01

The rapid industrialization in Taiwan has caused both prosperity and environmental pollution. The purpose of this study is to demonstrate a case of both occupational and environmental lead poisoning. A patient of lead poisoning initiated a survey of the battery recycling factory, which revealed that 31 of 64 workers suffered from lead poisoning. Children who attended a nearby kindergarten showed a significant increase of blood lead up to 15-25 micrograms/dl and a mild but significant decrease of IQ (intelligent quotient, by Binet-Simon scale) if compared with children of a nonexposed but socioeconomically comparable kindergarten. Outdoor workers of the nearby forging factory also showed a significant increase of blood lead if compared with indoor workers or workers of another nonexposed forging factory 20 Km away. Air sampling showed an average of more than 10 micrograms/m3 in the kindergarten. Soil sampling and analysis also revealed 400 folds increase of lead content, which decreased if the sample was taken deep down to 15-30 cm or 350 meters away from the battery recycling smelter. Moreover, after children were moved away from the pollution source, follow-up examination performed 2.5 years later showed a significant decrease of blood lead and partial recovery of IQ among them.

A systemic ecological risk assessment based on spatial distribution and source apportionment in the abandoned lead acid battery plant zone, China.

PubMed

Zhang, Yimei; Li, Shuai; Chen, Zhuang; Wang, Fei; Chen, Jie; Wang, Liqun

2018-07-15

In China, potential heavy metal hazard around abandoned lead-acid battery plant (ALBP) area has been a great concern but without detailed report. The distribution and sources of heavy metals in soils and so by risk assessment associated with ALBP are conducted in this contribution, based on geographies and statistics. Pb and Zn are quantitively identified to be still emitted from ALBP soil, and Cd as well As are from agricultural activity. We investigate vertical metal distribution, and fortunately find that metals migrate within limit of 40 cm below topsoil, which is higher than groundwater table. The visualized stable depths are Zn 40 cm, Pb, As 20 cm, and Cd 40 cm. The mapped pollution load index (PLI) suggests a high pollution level exists in ALBP soil. The estimation of potential ecological risk index (PERI) indicates a light ecological risk in studied area, while As and Cd mainly from agricultural activity possess 54% of total E ri . Health risk index (THI) is 0.178 for children, indicating non-cancer risks may be ignored in observed area. Though calculated risk is temporarily affordable, soil remediation and reduction of agricultural chemical reagents are recommended for preventing potential cumulative risk from further bioconcentration of heavy metals. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

VALVE

DOEpatents

Arkelyan, A.M.; Rickard, C.L.

1962-04-17

A gate valve for controlling the flow of fluid in separate concentric ducts or channels by means of a single valve is described. In one position, the valve sealing discs engage opposed sets of concentric ducts leading to the concentric pipes defining the flow channels to block flow therethrough. In another position, the discs are withdrawn from engagement with the opposed ducts and at the same time a bridging section is interposed therebetween to define concentric paths coextensive with and connecting the opposed ducts to facilitate flow therebetween. A wedge block arrangement is employed with each sealing disc to enable it to engage the ducts. The wedge block arrangement also facilitates unobstructcd withdrawal of the discs out of the intervening space between the sets of ducts. (AEC)

Regulation of Intestinal Mucosal Growth by Amino Acids

PubMed Central

Ray, Ramesh M.; Johnson, Leonard R.

2013-01-01

Amino acids, especially glutamine (GLN) have been known for many years to stimulate the growth of small intestinal mucosa. Polyamines are also required for optimal mucosal growth, and the inhibition of ornithine decarboxylase (ODC), the first rate-limiting enzyme in polyamine synthesis, blocks growth. Certain amino acids, primarily asparagine (ASN) and GLN stimulate ODC activity in a solution of physiological salts. More importantly, their presence is also required before growth factors and hormones such as EGF and insulin are able to increase ODC activity. ODC activity is inhibited by antizyme-1 (AZ) whose synthesis is stimulated by polyamines, thus, providing a negative feedback regulation of the enzyme. In the absence of amino acids mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) is inhibited, whereas, mTORC2 is stimulated leading to the inhibition of global protein synthesis but increasing the synthesis of AZ via a cap-independent mechanism. These data, therefore, explain why ASN or GLN is essential for the activation of ODC. Interestingly, in a number of papers, AZ has been shown to inhibit cell proliferation, stimulate apoptosis or increase autophagy. Each of these activities results in decreased cellular growth. AZ binds to and accelerates the degradation of ODC and other proteins shown to regulate proliferation and cell death, such as Aurora-A, Cyclin D1 and Smad1. The correlation between the stimulation of ODC activity and the absence of AZ as influenced by amino acids is high. Not only do amino acids such as ASN and GLN stimulate ODC while inhibiting AZ synthesis, but also amino acids such as lysine, valine and ornithine, which inhibit ODC activity, increase the synthesis of AZ. The question remaining to be answered is whether AZ inhibits growth directly or whether it acts by decreasing the availability of polyamines to the dividing cells. In either case, evidence strongly suggests that the regulation of AZ synthesis is the mechanism through which amino

Regulation of intestinal mucosal growth by amino acids.

PubMed

Ray, Ramesh M; Johnson, Leonard R

2014-03-01

Amino acids, especially glutamine (GLN) have been known for many years to stimulate the growth of small intestinal mucosa. Polyamines are also required for optimal mucosal growth, and the inhibition of ornithine decarboxylase (ODC), the first rate-limiting enzyme in polyamine synthesis, blocks growth. Certain amino acids, primarily asparagine (ASN) and GLN stimulate ODC activity in a solution of physiological salts. More importantly, their presence is also required before growth factors and hormones such as epidermal growth factor and insulin are able to increase ODC activity. ODC activity is inhibited by antizyme-1 (AZ) whose synthesis is stimulated by polyamines, thus, providing a negative feedback regulation of the enzyme. In the absence of amino acids mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) is inhibited, whereas, mTORC2 is stimulated leading to the inhibition of global protein synthesis but increasing the synthesis of AZ via a cap-independent mechanism. These data, therefore, explain why ASN or GLN is essential for the activation of ODC. Interestingly, in a number of papers, AZ has been shown to inhibit cell proliferation, stimulate apoptosis, or increase autophagy. Each of these activities results in decreased cellular growth. AZ binds to and accelerates the degradation of ODC and other proteins shown to regulate proliferation and cell death, such as Aurora-A, Cyclin D1, and Smad1. The correlation between the stimulation of ODC activity and the absence of AZ as influenced by amino acids is high. Not only do amino acids such as ASN and GLN stimulate ODC while inhibiting AZ synthesis, but also amino acids such as lysine, valine, and ornithine, which inhibit ODC activity, increase the synthesis of AZ. The question remaining to be answered is whether AZ inhibits growth directly or whether it acts by decreasing the availability of polyamines to the dividing cells. In either case, evidence strongly suggests that the regulation of AZ synthesis is the

Regulation of hepatic bile acid transporters Ntcp and Bsep expression.

PubMed

Cheng, Xingguo; Buckley, David; Klaassen, Curtis D

2007-12-03

Sodium-taurocholate cotransporting polypeptide (Ntcp) and bile salt export pump (Bsep) are two key transporters for hepatic bile acid uptake and excretion. Alterations in Ntcp and Bsep expression have been reported in pathophysiological conditions. In the present study, the effects of age, gender, and various chemicals on the regulation of these two transporters were characterized in mice. Ntcp and Bsep mRNA levels in mouse liver were low in the fetus, but increased to its highest expression at parturition. After birth, mouse Ntcp and Bsep mRNA decreased by more than 50%, and then gradually increased to adult levels by day 30. Expression of mouse Ntcp mRNA and protein exhibit higher levels in female than male livers. No gender difference exists in BSEP/Bsep expression in human and mouse livers. Hormone replacements conducted in gonadectomized, hypophysectomized, and lit/lit mice indicate that female-predominant Ntcp expression in mouse liver is due to the inhibitory effect of male-pattern GH secretion, but not sex hormones. Ntcp and Bsep expression are in general resistant to induction by a large battery of microsomal enzyme inducers. Administration of cholestyramine increased Ntcp, whereas chenodeoxycholic acid (CDCA) increased Bsep mRNA expression. In conclusion, mouse Ntcp and Bsep are regulated by age, gender, cholestyramine, and bile acid, but resistant to induction by most microsomal enzyme inducers.

Lead exposure among small-scale battery recyclers, automobile radiator mechanics, and their children in Manila, the Philippines.

PubMed

Suplido, M L; Ong, C N

2000-03-01

Blood lead (PbB) and hemoglobin levels (Hb) were determined in 40 battery repair/recycling shop workers, 16 radiator repair shop workers, and 20 children living in the immediate vicinity of these shops. Unexposed residents with similar socioeconomic status were also investigated. Mean PbB level was significantly higher for battery workers (54.23 microg/dL) when compared to radiator workers (20.04 microg/dL) and unexposed adults (12.56 microg/dL) (P<0.001). Among battery workers, 94% had PbB levels above the WHO permissible exposure limit of 40 microg/dL for males and 30 microg/dL for females. There was no demarcation between workplace and living quarters; therefore, workers' families were similarly exposed to hazards. Children living in the immediate vicinity of battery shops also had significantly higher mean PbB levels (49.88 microg/dL) compared to radiator shop children (11.84 microg/dL) and unexposed children (9.92 microg/dL). For workers with PbB > 40 microg/dL, 90% were anemic (Hb < 13 g/dL for males and <11.5 g/dL for females). Linear regression showed a correlation (r=-0.214; P=0.03) between Hb level and log(10)PbB. There was no significant relationship between anemia and blood lead in children (r=-0.146). We conclude that radiator repair activities appeared to increase the body burden of lead, although not up to a level significantly different from unexposed counterparts. Battery recycling/repair activities, however, significantly increased blood lead levels in workers and their children. Copyright 2000 Academic Press.