Application of the QCM in lead acid batteries electrolyte measurements

Abstract

This paper describes the application of a Quartz Crystal Microbalance (QCM) sensor in density-viscosity measurements of the electrolyte of the lead acid batteries. In battery applications, especially in automotive applications, submarines and remote communication systems it is necessary to know the state of charge of the batteries in order to manage them efficiently [1]. One of the physical parameters with information about the state of charge is the electrolyte density; the product ηρ1/2 as well varies with the state of charge [2]. Due the quartz crystal oscillator frequency depends on the density and the viscosity (1), it is possible to measure the electrolyte density changes by means of a QCM sensor. The frequency shift is monitoring in solutions with H2SO4 concentration in the battery electrolyte range. Furthermore, real time experiments are conducted, placing the quartz crystal inside the battery cell.