Battery Chemistries: Nickel Metal Hydride

Application Description:

Nickel Metal Hydride batteries are best where small size and high power are the most important factors. They are generally not well suited for battery backup applications.

Typical Applications:

Power Tools Digital Cameras Water Sample Analyzers

Radio Controlled Cars Hybrid Electric Vehicles Cordless Vacuum Cleaners

Manufacturers:

Specifications

Cell Voltage	1.2 V
Shelf Life	1 year at 25ºC
Charge Temperature	0 to 40ºC
Discharge Temperature	-10 to 65ºC
Cycle Life	~500 at 80% depth of discharge

Comparison Charts: Rechargeable Chemistries

Chemistry	Cost	Weight	Temp	Cycle	Shelf Life	Volts
			(ºC)	Life	(months)	per cell
Lead Acid Calcium	$	Very Heavy	-15 to 50	180	6	2.0
Lead Acid Tin	$$	Very Heavy	-65 to 80	300	12	2.0
Nickel Cadmium	$$	Heavy	-20 to 65	500+	6	1.2
Nickel Metal Hydride	$$$	Moderate	-10 to 65	500	12	1.2
Lithium Ion	$$$$	Light	-20 to 60	500	12	3.7
Lithium Polymer	$$$$$	Light	-20 to 60	500	12	3.7

Non-rechargeable Chemistries

Chemistry	Cost	Weight	Temp	Discharge	Shelf Life	Volts
			(ºC)	Rate	(years)	per cell
Carbon Zinc	$	Very Heavy	-15 to 50	Medium	2	1.5
Alkaline	$$	Heavy	-65 to 80	High	5	1.5
LiMnO2	$$$	Moderate	-20 to 65	Low	10	3.0
LiSOCl2	$$$$	Light	-10 to 65	Low	10	3.6