Research progresses of cathodic hydrogen evolution in advanced lead-acid batteries

Integrating high content carbon into the negative electrodes of advanced lead-acid batteries effectively eliminates the sulfation and improves the cycle life, but brings the problem of hydrogen evolution, which increases inner pressure and accelerates the water loss. In this review, the mechanism of hydrogen evolution reaction in advanced lead-acid batteries, including lead-carbon battery and ultrabattery, is briefly reviewed. The strategies on suppression hydrogen evolution via structure modifications of carbon materials and adding hydrogen evolution inhibitors are summarized as well. The review points out effective ways to inhibit hydrogen evolution and prolong the cycling life of advanced lead-acid battery, especially in high-rate partial-state-of-charge applications.