The Indestructible Battery: Edison’s Nickel-Iron Battery
Have you heard of the indestructible battery that can last 100 years? Probably not, because there’s no money to be made selling a battery that never needs replacing. Instead, companies prefer to sell batteries that need to be replaced every few years, ensuring a steady stream of revenue.
The inventor of this “battery that worked too well” was none other than Thomas Edison. He created the nickel-iron battery, a remarkably durable power source that has been largely forgotten in the world of modern technology.
Common Off-Grid Battery Options
When it comes to off-grid power, most homesteaders use one of the following battery types:
🔋 Lead-acid batteries: Cheapest option, commonly used in vehicles
🔋 Lithium-ion batteries: Lightest and most energy-dense, ideal for electronics
🔋 Lithium-phosphate batteries: Most expensive but also the most durable
The Nickel-Iron Battery: Durable but Heavy
Nickel-iron batteries are incredibly durable, but they have a significant drawback: they are not as energy-dense as other options. This means that they take up more space and are heavier, making them less suitable for powering cars. However, when it comes to powering a house, the weight and size are less of an issue.
Additional Facts About Nickel-Iron Batteries
– Nickel-iron batteries can last up to 100 years with proper maintenance, far outlasting other battery types.
– These batteries are resistant to overcharging, deep discharging, and short-circuiting, making them incredibly reliable.
– Nickel-iron batteries have a lower energy density compared to lead-acid batteries, meaning they require more space for the same amount of energy storage.
– Despite their durability and reliability, nickel-iron batteries have been largely phased out due to their higher cost and lower energy density compared to more modern battery technologies.
