Corrosion is a problem that occurs with lead-acid batteries when the volatile chemicals or gases inside a battery escape and come into contact with the highly-conductive metal of the battery terminal. The batteries can release gases filled with hydrogen, sulfur, and acids that damage nearby battery terminals if not vented properly.
The battery turns acid into an electric current. Sometimes, the hydrogen gas in the battery leaks and finds its way into the atmosphere. It reacts with other substances, and battery terminal corrosion is the result. Different problems relating to the battery will show up depending on which side of the battery corrosion has formed on.
If you see corrosion your batteries are emitting very dangerous gasses. Luckily, high-quality lithium batteries like our Battle Born line do not emit any gasses and will not corrode terminals. This is just one of the reasons our batteries are so much safer than old lead-acid technology. What Happens If Battery Terminals Corrode?
The colored material is usually flaky or crumbly too. Corrosion is often on nearby metal surfaces, like battery terminals, electrical connections, or other components of the battery that are exposed to the hydrogen gas. What Causes Battery Terminal Corrosion?
Various sprays are available on the market to prevent terminal corrosion. You can also use Vaseline or grease if you find the sprays expensive. Coated felt pads could also be used to prevent corrosion of the battery terminals. Categories: Car Battery, Electric
The most common reason for battery terminal corrosion is hydrogen or electrolyte leakage from the battery. It can also be caused by an alternator slightly overcharging the car battery over a long period of time. Chemical reactions with copper clamps are not rare, either.