Dynamic charge acceptance of lead–acid batteries: Comparison of methods for conditioning and testing

Dynamic charge acceptance (DCA) is a key requirement for batteries in micro-hybrid vehicles. In automotive applications, DCA reaches a stable level during several weeks or months in service. A conditioning method that accelerates stabilizing DCA is presented. Various test methods for evaluation of DCA are compared. This is necessary for comparing new technologies (e.g. negative electrodes with carbon additives) and cell concepts (e.g. bi-polar batteries).

► Degradation of charge acceptance in field.
► Comparison of testing methods for charge acceptance.
► Influence of short-term history on charge acceptance.
► Proposal for conditioning before testing charge acceptance.