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What properties make lead useful in lead-acid storage batteries?

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A periodic table element box for lead (Pb) shows atomic number 82, atomic weight 207.2, electron configuration, and labels for symbol, name, crystal structure, and physical state, with a legend for color and symbol meanings. — lead Properties of lead.

The lead-acid battery remains a widely used rechargeable power source due to several key properties of the metal and the system's overall design.1

Why Lead is Useful in Batteries

Cost-Effectiveness: Lead is relatively inexpensive compared to other metals used in rechargeable batteries, such as nickel, cadmium, lithium, or silver.1
Ease of Fabrication: Lead components are easily manufactured through processes like casting, welding, or rolling.1
Performance: The system offers a high cell voltage of 2.1 volts, high reliability, and a wide capability range for varying current demands across typical ambient temperatures.1
Sustainability: Lead has a high degree of salvageability because it can be recycled at low melting temperatures.1
Durability: The material provides good cycle life and shelf life when properly maintained.1

Additionally, the physical properties of lead—such as its density and malleability—allow it to be formed into the grids necessary for battery construction. In some applications, such as traction batteries, the significant weight of lead is also utilized to help stabilize vehicles during operation.12