Another key reason why lead-acid based batteries may still have a key role to play in the future is their place in the circular economy. Lead is a true recycling champion. Of the 12 million tonne lead market, only 4.5 million tonnes come from primary production, with the rest coming from recycling. This is mainly due to battery recycling.
To conclude that newer technologies will result in a demise of lead’s role in battery technology is, therefore, premature. For the time being, lead-acid batteries are unequalled when it comes to safety, reliability and recyclability.
The improvement of specific energy and life of lead-acid batteries by the development of light-weight tubular designs using the high-strength, corrosion resistant alloys mentioned above.
As KC Chang, a Principal Analyst for IHS Markit, explains: “Lead-acid batteries are not preferred for EVs’ main batteries – they are heavy and do not have as much power density as other battery technologies.” Today, the global lead market is a mature market. Roughly 12 million tonnes of lead are produced and consumed every year.
While there are other battery technologies that are better suited to the powertrains of EVs, and there are future developments which will compete with lead-acid technology for low voltage applications, lead batteries still have a significant role to play in the green energy revolution.
If you would like to know more about Lead Battery 360° and how you can engage, please contact us here. Lead Battery 360° is a global initiative to promote and recognise good practices in lead battery value chains, from lead mining through to lead battery manufacturing and recycling.