What characterizes a flooded battery?

A flooded battery is characterized by the presence of a liquid electrolyte contained within an open container. This design allows for the electrolyte solution, typically a mixture of water and sulfuric acid, to fill the cells of the battery. This type of battery often requires periodic maintenance, such as checking and refilling the electrolyte levels, as some of the liquid can evaporate during use or through electrolysis.

In contrast, sealed or maintenance-free batteries do not have a liquid electrolyte that can evaporate, which eliminates the need for such maintenance. Dry electrolyte materials are used in different types of batteries such as lithium-ion or gel batteries, which do not offer the characteristics of a flooded battery. Additionally, while flooded batteries can be used in various applications, they are not specifically designed for portable devices; instead, they are commonly used in larger systems, such as vehicles and stationary energy storage.