In 1899, Waldmar Jungner from Sweden invented the nickel-cadmium battery, which used nickel for the positive electrode and cadmium for the negative.

ADVANTAGES:

Fast and simple charge, even after prolonged storage. High number of charge/discharge cycles - if properly maintained. Nickel-cadmium provides over 1000 charge/discharge cycles. Good load performance - the Nickel-cadmium allows recharging at low temperatures. Long shelf life - five-year storage is possible. Some priming prior to use will be required. Simple storage and transportation - most airfreight companies accept the Nickel-cadmium without special conditions. Good low temperature performance. Forgiving if abused - Nickel-cadmium is one of the most rugged rechargeable batteries. Economically priced - Nickel-cadmium is lowest in terms of cost per cycle. Available in a wide range of sizes and performance options - most Nickel-cadmium cells are cylindrical. Sealing possibility

LIMITATIONS:

Memory effect -Nickel-cadmium must periodically be exercised to prevent memory. Environmentally unfriendly -Nickel-cadmium contains toxic metals. Some countries restrict its use.

Ni-Cd accumulators are used both for industry (electric trolleys, diesel locomotives, carriages, for battery backup of stations, for civil and military aviation), and for portable radio and video equipment (small size accumulators).