American Battery Research Group

The American Battery Research Group (ARBG), comprised of U.S. lead battery manufacturers and suppliers, was created to identify areas of scientific research to further the performance of lead batteries to meet U.S. energy storage goals. It operates under the auspices of Battery Council International.

Advancing Battery Innovation: The American Battery Research Group

The American Battery Research Group (ABRG) is a collaborative initiative dedicated to advancing battery performance, sustainability, and domestic manufacturing. Bringing together industry leaders, researchers, and national laboratories, ABRG focuses on scientific studies that enhance battery technology, improve recyclability, and strengthen the U.S. supply chain.

Through partnerships with institutions like Argonne National Laboratory and the University of Toledo, ABRG is exploring new materials, optimizing battery lifecycles, and ensuring that energy storage solutions remain reliable, efficient, and environmentally responsible.

American Battery Research Group (ABRG) logo.
Lead battery research at the University of Toledo.

Pioneering Research with Argonne National Laboratory & the University of Toledo

The ABRG has launched a project in cooperation with the Department of Energy’s (DOE) Argonne National Laboratory and the University of Toledo to examine the molecular structure of lead battery expanders, lignosulfonates, which can dramatically improve battery performance. The project is financially supported by five U.S. lead battery industry manufacturers: Clarios, Crown Battery, East Penn Manufacturing, Ecobat, and EnerSys.

Researchers at Argonne are utilizing advanced diagnostics and modeling tools to study battery aging and efficiency, while scientists at the University of Toledo are conducting hands-on testing to evaluate new material innovations.

This research will help extend battery lifespan, optimize material recovery, and further enhance the industry’s well-established circular economy. By investing in cutting-edge science, this partnership supports the continued advancement of domestic battery manufacturing and a more sustainable energy future.

There's a lot of room for growth in ... lead battery chemistry ... it's something that would really make it even more competitive for things like stationary storage.

Dr. Tim Fister, Materials Scientist, Argonne National Laboratory