Regenerating lead-acid batteries to make them last three times longer

A safe and easy method for rejuvenating lead-acid batteries could improve their sustainability and cost

Spotted: The rechargeable lead-acid battery was first invented in 1859. Compared to modern rechargeable batteries, it has relatively low energy density, but is inexpensive and simple to manufacture, making it a popular option for uses ranging from off-grid energy systems to telecoms equipment and automobile ignitions.

Lead-acid batteries have a relatively short lifespan, however, meaning they have poor sustainability. But now, an Amsterdam-based startup is working to give them a new lease of life. Revive Battery has developed a battery regeneration process that uses carefully controlled electrical impulses to break through sulphur crystals, which revives the batteries without damaging them.

The startup claims this process can be used two to three times on each battery and restores up to 95 per cent of the batteries’ original capacity. Even better, the process can be performed on-site and includes monitoring, enabling users to access and track their battery performance in real time.

According to the startup, the process emits less CO2 than traditional battery regeneration methods. It also keeps the battery intact and requires just 2.1 kilowatt hours (kWh) of energy to revive each battery. The company claims to have revived more than 11,000 batteries in India and Africa.

With the global battery market expected to expand at the same time that concerns over their environmental impact are also growing, there is a renewed interest in more sustainable options. Explore our archive to find some others that Springwise has spotted, including designs incorporating software and using seaweed to improve battery lifespan.

Written By: Lisa Magloff