Szulfatáció

Szulfatáció refers to a process where sulfate ions react with various substances. In electrochemistry, it specifically describes the degradation of lead-acid batteries. When a lead-acid battery is deeply discharged or left in a discharged state for extended periods, a layer of lead sulfate crystals can form on the electrodes. If these crystals grow large and hard, they become difficult to convert back to active battery material during recharging. This process reduces the battery's capacity, efficiency, and overall lifespan. Factors contributing to sulfation include undercharging, infrequent use, and storage at high temperatures. While some degree of sulfation is normal during battery operation, excessive sulfation is detrimental. Techniques exist to mitigate or even reverse mild sulfation, such as desulfation chargers or specialized battery treatments, though heavily sulfated batteries may be beyond repair. The term can also be used in other chemical contexts to describe the addition of sulfate groups to molecules, a process important in various industrial and biological applications.