Strategies for overcoming the adverse effects of imbalances in the second order reactions in valve regulated lead acid cells

The fundamental problem of capacity loss in VRLA cells is discussed and the route cause of the problem defined in terms of the relationships of the so called second order reactions of oxygen evolution, oxygen reduction, grid corrosion, and negative self-discharge. Various possible strategies for overcoming the inherent capacity loss due to gradual self-discharge of the negative electrodes in VRLA cells and cell dry out due to “normal” occurring balances of the second order reactions are discussed. The probability of success and difficulty in the implementation of each strategy is considered