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Battery Encyclopedia

Everything you want to know about batteries from A to Z, curated by TWAICE experts.

Browse 150+ terms & words

Anode, cathode, state of health, depth of discharge, end of life - read about the most important battery terms and definitions.

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Swelling force

Battery terminology

The physical expansion pressure exerted by gases or electrolytes within a battery cell. This can be caused by internal reactions, especially in faulty or damaged cells, leading to the physical swelling of the battery.

System design

Battery terminology

System design in the context of battery technology involves planning and configuring the entire battery system to meet specific performance and application requirements. It includes selecting appropriate components, defining system architecture, and ensuring compatibility, safety, and efficiency throughout the battery's lifecycle.

System downtime

Energy storage

This term refers to periods when a system, such as a power plant or a battery storage facility, is not operational. Downtime can be scheduled (for maintenance) or unscheduled (due to failures or external factors). Minimizing downtime is crucial for maximizing efficiency and reliability.

System performance

Battery terminology

System performance refers to the overall effectiveness and efficiency of a battery system in meeting its intended functions. High system performance is characterized by reliability, longevity, and optimal energy output.

Temperature Boundaries

Battery terminology

The minimum and maximum temperatures within which a battery can safely operate, maintaining performance and longevity.

Thermal management

Battery terminology

Thermal management is the process of controlling the temperature of batteries to prevent overheating and ensure optimal performance. This includes cooling systems and materials designed to dissipate heat effectively

Thermal mass

Battery terminology

A material's ability to absorb, store and release thermal energy. In battery systems, having a high thermal mass can help moderate temperature fluctuations, which can be crucial for maintaining battery health and safety.

Thermal model

Battery modeling

A thermal model mimics the thermal response of a battery cell to an applied load. The thermal behavior is the response due to the reversible and irreversible generation of heat. Irreversible heat generation is driven by effects such as Joule heating and internal, chemical side reactions. Reversible heat is created by the entropy changes of the respective materials during electrochemical reactions.

Thermal propagation

Battery terminology

This phenomenon in battery systems refers to the spread of excessive heat from one part of the battery to another. It can be particularly dangerous in large battery packs, as heat from one overheating cell can propagate to adjacent cells, potentially leading to thermal runaway, where the temperature keeps increasing uncontrollably.

Thermal runaway

Battery terminology

Thermal runaway is a dangerous condition in which a battery's temperature rapidly increases due to an uncontrollable exothermic reaction (that means reactions create heat, which trigger further reactions which themselves, create even more heat), leading to the release of toxic gases, fire, or explosion. Factors leading and contributing to thermal runaway include internal short circuits, overcharging, excessive heat, and mechanical damage.

Titanium

Battery cell chemistries

Titanium is often used in the anode of lithium-titanate (Li₄Ti₅O₁₂ or LTO) batteries, where it provides fast charging, excellent cycle stability, and enhanced safety. Titanium can also be found in certain cathode materials, contributing to stability and safety, though it typically results in lower energy density compared to other materials.

Transition metal dissolution

Battery terminology

This phenomenon occurs in some lithium-ion batteries, where transition metals from the cathode material (like nickel, manganese, or cobalt) dissolve into the electrolyte. This process can be accelerated by factors like high temperature or overcharging. The dissolved metals can then deposit on the anode, leading to a decrease in capacity and battery life.

Trend analysis

Battery terminology

Trend analysis involves studying historical performance data to identify patterns and predict future behavior of battery systems. This helps in proactive maintenance and performance optimization.

Underperformance

Battery terminology

Underperformance refers to a battery system not meeting its expected performance metrics. Identifying and addressing underperformance is crucial for maintaining reliability and efficiency

Undervoltage

Battery terminology

A condition where the voltage of a battery falls below the minimum threshold needed for operation, potentially leading to reduced performance or damage. Operating a battery under undervoltage conditions can lead to irreversible damage and decreased battery capacity.

Vehicle to Grid (V2G)

Electric vehicles

Vehicle to Grid (V2G) technology allows electric vehicles to supply power back to the grid. This bidirectional energy flow helps balance grid demand and supports renewable energy integration.

Volatility

Energy storage

Volatility in the context of renewable energy refers to the rapid and unpredictable fluctuations in energy generation and supply. Effective battery systems help mitigate this volatility by storing excess energy during peak production times and releasing it during periods of low generation, ensuring a stable and reliable power supply

Voltage

Battery terminology

Voltage, often measured in volts (V), is the electrical potential difference between two points in a circuit. It's analogous to the pressure in a water pipe, pushing electrons through a conductor. In batteries, it determines how much electrical energy can be stored and delivered.

Voltage Limit

Battery terminology

The maximum or minimum voltage to which a battery or cell can be safely charged or discharged.

Voltage spreads

Battery terminology

In a battery module with multiple cells, the voltage spread refers to the difference in voltage levels among the cells. Uneven voltage spreads can indicate issues like cell imbalances and can affect the overall performance and health of the battery pack.

WECC (Western Electricity Coordinating Council)

Energy storage

WECC (Western Electricity Coordinating Council) refers to a regional organization responsible for coordinating the reliability and security of the electric grid in the Western Interconnection of North America. This region covers the western parts of the United States, Canada, and a portion of Mexico. WECC's primary role is to ensure the reliable operation of the interconnected power system, develop and enforce reliability standards, and facilitate coordination among utilities and grid operators within its region.

Watt

Battery terminology

The unit of power in the International System of Units (SI), defined as one joule per second or one volt times one ampere.

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