Nickel-based batteries

Nickel-cadmium, nickel-metal hydride and nickel-iron cells.

Storage · Electrochemical · No. 73

• Storage
• Duration: Hours

The tough nickel battery in many Toyota hybrids also runs rail signals and aircraft, working from -50 C to +70 C.

Chart: Illustration: Nickel-based batteries

Where it comes from

Chart: Map of where it comes from

All three types pair a nickel electrode with cadmium, a metal hydride alloy or iron in an alkaline liquid; Indonesia mined about 67% of nickel in 2025.

Three things to know

1. These cells store 40 to 80 Wh/kg, well under half of lithium-ion's 100 to 200, so they are heavy for their energy.
2. World cadmium output was about 23,000 t in 2025, and nickel-cadmium batteries remain its main use.
3. The EU limits cadmium in portable batteries to 0.002% by weight, leaving nickel-cadmium to industrial roles.

The journey

1. 1 Nickel and partnersNickel with cadmium, metal hydride or iron
2. 2 Alkaline cellProtons shuttle in potassium hydroxide
3. 3 Rugged packSurvives deep discharge, heat and cold
4. 4 Backup powerSubstations, telecom, rail, aviation, hybrids
5. 5 RecyclingCadmium and nickel recovered and reused

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