NiCd batteries are a battery type, that are also known as NiCad batteries . NiCd is an abbreviation of Nickel Cadmium. NiCad is actually a trademark of SAFT Corporation who are major producers of NiCd batteries.
NiCd batteries are a rechargeable battery that is made up of nickel oxide hydroxide and metallic cadmium as electrodes. They come in many sizes ranging from AAA through to D and even come in the form of 9V batteries. They can also come in larger, industrial sizes.
The main uses of NiCd batteries are:
- Cordless phone handsets
- Solar Garden lights
- Toys
- Emergency lighting
- Remote control planes, boats, and cars
- Power tools
Larger wet cell NiCd batteries can be found in aircraft starting batteries, EVs and standby power supplies.
NiCd batteries are beneficial as they are hard to damage, making them more durable than lead-acid or lithium batteries. They are far more tolerant towards long deep discharge cycles and can perform well under tough conditions. They have a high energy density and compete with alkaline batteries (which cannot be recharged).
Unfortunately, NiCd batteries do suffer from the memory effect , where they gradually lose their maximum energy capacity if they’re repeatedly recharged after being partially discharged. As for their impact on the environment, NiCd batteries contain cadmium, which is a toxic material that can be harmful if disposed of incorrectly.
