overdischarge

Overdischarge refers to the condition where a rechargeable battery is discharged beyond its safe minimum voltage level. When a battery is used, its voltage gradually decreases. If this discharge continues beyond a certain point, it can cause irreversible damage to the battery's internal chemistry. This damage can manifest in several ways, including a reduction in the battery's capacity, a decrease in its ability to hold a charge, and an increased risk of internal short circuits or thermal runaway, especially in lithium-ion chemistries. Most modern battery management systems (BMS) are designed to prevent overdischarge by monitoring the battery voltage and disconnecting the load or charging circuit when the voltage reaches a critical low point. The specific safe minimum voltage varies depending on the battery chemistry. For example, lithium-ion batteries have a lower safe discharge limit than some other types. Preventing overdischarge is crucial for maintaining battery health, longevity, and safety.