5. Conclusion

This article presents the state-of-the-art in batteries for portable and nomadic applications. Current NiCd, NiMH and lithium-ion technologies are described, along with their electrical characteristics and performance, and their rules of use. As far as future developments are concerned, the growth in portable and nomadic equipment is set to continue, as is the need for compact, powerful and safe batteries. Lithium-ion technologies will make further progress in terms of energy density, service life and industrial maturity. Improvements are expected, for example, through the introduction of silicon in the negative electrode or the use of nano-structured materials. Sodium-ion technologies are beginning to emerge with promising performances. A great deal of research is currently focusing on "all-solid" lithium technologies using solid electrolytes and lithium in metallic form, as an extension...