Akkuhappo

Akkuhappo, Finnish for battery acid, refers to the sulfuric acid solution used as the electrolyte in lead‑acid batteries. In automotive and stationary cells, the electrolyte is a concentrated sulfuric acid solution dissolved in water. When the battery is fully charged, the solution typically contains roughly 30–35% sulfuric acid by weight and has a density around 1.25–1.30 g/cm3. The concentration and density fluctuate with the charge state: during discharge, reactions form lead sulfate and water, reducing the acid concentration; during charging, water is consumed and sulfuric acid is regenerated, increasing concentration.

Function and chemistry: The electrolyte conducts ions between the electrodes, enabling the redox reactions that store and release electrical energy. The positive plate reacts with the electrolyte to form lead sulfate, while the negative plate undergoes a complementary reaction. The acid’s activity also influences battery performance, charge acceptance, and efficiency.

Safety and handling: Akkuhappo is highly corrosive and can cause severe burns to skin and eyes and respiratory irritation if fumes are inhaled. It reacts with many metals and organic materials. Handling requires appropriate PPE (eye protection, acid-resistant gloves) and proper ventilation. Spills should be contained and neutralized with suitable absorbents and disposed of as hazardous waste per local regulations.

Storage and disposal: Store in corrosion-resistant, vented containers, away from heat and incompatible materials. Used electrolyte from battery recycling or maintenance must be treated or collected by authorized waste facilities; neutralization and disposal should follow regional environmental guidelines.

Applications: Primarily used as the electrolyte in lead‑acid batteries for vehicles, uninterruptible power supplies, and industrial energy storage.