What Is an AGM Battery and What's the Big Deal?
What is an AGM battery? AGM stands for Absorbed Glass Mat, indicating that the battery acid is absorbed into fiberglass mats instead of remaining as free-flowing liquid. These fiberglass mats increase the surface area of the electrolyte in contact with the ultra-thin lead plates, while also providing cushioning against impacts, bumps, and vibrations. This design allows battery manufacturers to fit more lead plates into the battery, which translates to greater available power. Originally developed in the 1970s for applications like telephone boxes and computer rooms (when computers filled entire rooms), AGM batteries feature a sealed design that makes them spill-proof. This quality makes them ideal for use in fighter planes, submarines, motorcycles, and as onboard power sources. AGM batteries are particularly well-suited for vehicles with auto start-stop engines because they can deliver deep power cycles while still effectively starting the engine. ...