This paper is a record of the replies given by an expert panel to questions asked by delegates to the Eighth Asian Battery Conference. The subjects are as follows. Analysis of lead and lead compounds: accuracy; critical aspects of sampling. Grid alloys: influence of tin on microstructure and grain size; optimum combination of grid-alloy technologies for automotive batteries. Battery manufacture and design: quality-assurance monitoring; acid-spray treatment of plates; efficiency of tank formation; control of alpha-PbO2/beta-PbO2 ratio; PbO2 conversion level; positive/negative plate ratio; amount and type of separator for valve-regulated technology. Battery performance: use of cadmium reference electrode; influence of positive/negative plate ratio; local action; negative-plate expanders; gas-recombination catalysts; selective discharge of negative and positive plates. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science S.A. All rights reserved.