Nickel cadmium batteries, also commonly referred to as Ni-Cd batteries or NiCad batteries, are a type of rechargeable battery that utilizes a combination of nickel oxide hydroxide and metallic cadmium as their active materials. These batteries were first developed in the 1890s and have since become widely used in various applications.
Nickel cadmium batteries are known for their high energy density, allowing them to store and release a significant amount of energy compared to other types of rechargeable batteries. They also exhibit a long cycle life, meaning they can withstand numerous charge and discharge cycles before losing their capacity.
One notable feature of nickel cadmium batteries is their ability to deliver a steady voltage output over the entire discharge process. This characteristic makes them suitable for applications requiring a consistent power supply, such as emergency backup systems, medical devices, and cordless power tools.
However, nickel cadmium batteries do have their drawbacks. They are prone to a phenomenon known as the "memory effect," where the battery's capacity decreases if it is not fully discharged before recharging. Additionally, cadmium is a toxic substance, which poses environmental concerns during battery disposal.
Over the years, nickel cadmium batteries have faced competition from other rechargeable battery technologies, such as nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) and lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries. However, they still find applications where their unique characteristics are advantageous, particularly in industrial settings and certain niche markets.
