Nickel-metal hydride battery (NiMH) - definition
Nickel-metal hydride battery (NiMH) - definition
Nickel-Metal Hydride Battery (NiMH) is a secondary source of electrical energy, where energy is stored through reversible chemical reactions occurring between the positive electrode made of nickel(III) oxide and the negative electrode made of a hydrogen-absorbing alloy. During charging, hydrogen is stored in the metallic structure of the anode, while during discharging, it oxidizes, causing electrons to flow through the external electrical circuit.
NiMH batteries are an advancement over older nickel-cadmium (NiCd) cells, eliminating toxic cadmium and increasing energy density. They are used in a wide range of applications—from portable devices and battery-powered tools, through cameras, to emergency power systems and hybrid drives in the automotive industry. Their nominal voltage per cell is usually 1.2 V, and the total capacity and efficiency depend on the manufacturing technology and usage parameters.
A characteristic feature of NiMH batteries is their susceptibility to the memory effect, although to a lesser extent than NiCd. This phenomenon can cause a partial loss of available capacity, especially with frequent recharging without full discharge. Modern versions of NiMH cells are, however, designed to minimize this effect, and their resistance to overloads and deep discharge allows for use in demanding environments.
NiMH technology offers a good balance between production costs, performance, and user safety, although it exhibits a higher level of self-discharge compared to lithium-ion batteries. For this reason, versions with a reduced charge loss rate (so-called LSD – Low Self-Discharge) are often used. The lifespan of a NiMH battery depends on operating conditions, depth of discharges, operating temperature, and charging method.
Nickel-Metal Hydride Batteries
Transfer Multisort Elektronik (TME) is one of the world’s largest global distributors of electronic components, electrotechnical parts, workshop equipment, and industrial automation. The catalog includes over 1,500,000 products from 1,300 leading manufacturers. TME’s modern logistics centers in Łódź and Rzgów (Poland), with a combined area of over 40,000 m², ship nearly 6,000 packages daily to customers in more than 150 countries.
TME also invests in the development of knowledge and skills of young engineers and electronics enthusiasts through the TME Education project, and supports the tech community by organizing the TechMasterEvent series, promoting innovation and experience exchange.
