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What is Stratification

Stratification only occurs in flooded batteries. In a stratified battery, the acid is not equally distributed throughout the battery, but concentrated at the bottom.

Stratification occurs if a battery is not fully charged for long periods, has shallow discharges or is deeply discharged.

How to prevent battery stratification

Stratification can be rectified by tipping the battery on the side (not more than 30 degrees) or doing a shaking motion. Boost charging also helps to neutralize stratification. EFB batteries also have a mixing element in each battery cell which helps counteract stratification by using the truck movements during driving in order to mix the electrolyte.

Since the acid concentration is higher at the bottom of a stratified battery, the voltage is higher there. A voltage reading will display this elevated value. A battery analyser will indicate "Surface Charge". To determine if there is surface charge or stratification, switch on the headlights, main beam for two minutes. If the charge does not decrease after a few minutes, the elevated charge is most likely because of stratification.

Use one of the methods above to get rid of it.