Book excerpt: This practical reference remains the most comprehensive guide to the fundamental theories, techniques, and strategies used for battery operation and design. It includes new and revised chapters focusing on the safety, performance, quality, and enhancement of various batteries and battery systems. From automotive, electrochemical, and high-energy applications to system implementation, selection, and standardization, the Second Edition presents expert discussions on electrochemical energy storage, the advantages of battery-powered traction, the disposal and recycling of used batteries, hazard prevention, and the chemistry and physics of lithium primary batteries.