VRLA separators-past, present, ideas for the future

This paper presents a historical review, some thoughts on the current status of the separator and some insight into the future role of the separator for VRLA batteries. The separator, because of its interactive role in the VRLA technology has been gaining identity as the third electrode. This paper is divided into three parts. The first part is a review of the history of the separator. This review provides insight into the historical evolution of today's separators, including some improvements in the reliability of VRLA batteries. The paper then explores the current thinking on the role of the separator. Separators in a VRLA battery have taken on more significant roles as more is learned about the workings of the VRLA battery. The paper presents some contemporary thoughts on this issue. The paper then presents some ideas for the future VRLA separator designs.