During the charge and discharge process, all lead-acid batteries generate gases and by-products. In flooded (vented) batteries, these gases are safely released into the atmosphere. However, in Valve Regulated Lead-Acid (VRLA) batteries, the by-products remain trapped inside each cell, gradually causing negative plate depolarization. Over time, this results in capacity loss and progressive self-discharge.
Catalyst Technology – Restoring Electrochemical Balance
When Catalyst is installed in the headspace of a VRLA battery cell, it modifies the electrochemical activity within the cell, restoring equilibrium and preventing negative plate depolarization. As a result, battery capacity is improved and maintained more consistently throughout the service life of the battery.
One of the most noticeable indicators of this improved balance is an immediate reduction in float current by up to 50%. This leads to a wide range of operational benefits, including:
- Up to 80% reduction in gas generation
- Reduced water loss
- Slower electrolyte dry-out
- Lower positive plate corrosion
- Reduced operating temperature
- Lower risk of thermal runaway
- Reduced cooling energy requirements for battery rooms
Most importantly, Catalyst-equipped batteries can operate reliably at ambient temperatures of up to 30°C without compromising their designed service life.
SEC Leads the Way in Applying Catalyst Technology to VRLA Batteries
For many years, SEC Industrial Battery Company has integrated Catalyst Technology into its 2V VRLA battery range, delivering outstanding operational performance. More recently, with the development of the compact Catalyst Monobloc, SEC has expanded this technology to its 6V and 12V Monobloc battery series.
Catalyst Monobloc – A New Generation of VRLA Battery Technology
SEC proudly introduces Catalyst Monobloc, an innovative technology designed to significantly improve VRLA battery performance by providing:
- Up to 50% reduction in float current
- Up to 80% reduction in gas generation
- Reduced electrolyte dry-out
- Lower water loss
- Extended float service life through reduced positive plate corrosion
- Improved capacity retention
- Prevention of negative plate depolarization
- Reduced risk of thermal runaway
- Full design life even at operating temperatures up to 30°C
Catalyst Monobloc is now integrated into SEC’s 12V Front Terminal batteries, 6V & 12V TUA telecommunications/UPS batteries, and TSG Solar Gel batteries, ensuring maximum service life even in high-temperature operating environments.
Looking Ahead
Building on the advantages of Catalyst Technology, SEC will continue to introduce next-generation VRLA battery solutions designed to deliver higher performance, longer service life, and enhanced operational safety for critical backup power applications.