Lithium-ion batteries are rechargeable batteries that store energy as lithium ions, making them widely used across electronics such as computers, smartphones and electric vehicles.
These batteries have become increasingly popular due to their high energy density, power capacity, and long lifespan. Unfortunately, if not maintained correctly they can be dangerous.
High Energy Density
Energy density of batteries measures how much energy they can store relative to their volume, making them useful in applications like electric vehicles which need long travel distances without increasing weight or space requirements.
Lithium-ion batteries reign supreme when it comes to energy density, boasting between 260-270 wh/kg compared with lead-acid batteries’ 50-100 wh/kg energy densities.
Lithium-ion technology has seen immense advances over time. Over the past decade, engineers have worked to refine its electrochemistry by using different materials in its anode and cathode formation processes.
At present, most lithium-ion batteries use an anode comprised of graphite mixture and cathodes made up of various metals; however, research is currently being done on ways to optimize electrochemistry and increase energy density in lithium-ion batteries.
Valance Technology’s phosphate-based lithium-ion technology represents an impressive new chemistry with the highest power density per kilogram of any commercially available lithium-ion battery available today.
Solid state batteries (SSBs), which replace liquid electrolytes with solid ionic conductors, represent another impressive advance. SSBs offer several advantages over traditional batteries made of flammable electrolyte solutions such as operating at room temperature and lower charge/discharge rates.
As previously discussed, lithium-ion batteries have revolutionized our world and altered how we consume energy. Unfortunately, they also present safety risks and limitations to further development, necessitating an extensive national battery research program such as that supported by the Department of Energy to advance electric vehicle batteries.
High Power Capacity
Lithium-ion batteries feature high power capacities, making them suitable for many different applications – cell phones, laptops and digital cameras among them.
Batteries are also widely used in hybrid cars, e-bikes and electric scooters as well as radio-controlled models and aircraft.
There are various kinds of lithium-ion batteries, and their energy density varies depending on which positive and negative electrode materials are utilized. On average, however, an average battery can deliver approximately 1200 Wh/kg in its volume (Wh/L).
Lithium-ion batteries offer much higher energy densities compared to lead acid or nickel-metal hydride batteries, as well as greater longevity. Furthermore, their superior energy storage properties make them superior alternatives.
Lithium-ion battery capacity can vary significantly based on factors like its temperature and state of charge, with storage at high temperatures reducing capacity, while charging it at too fast a rate can further erode its efficiency.
Some of these issues can be addressed by designing batteries that are more stable at high temperatures, and researchers are working towards increasing safety of Lithium-ion batteries.
Though lithium-ion batteries offer great promise, they still possess some limitations that prevent their full potential from being realized. One such issue is their tendency to overheat and burn, potentially leading to fires. Researchers are working tirelessly on finding ways to make these batteries safer and longer-lived.
Long Lifespan
Lithium-ion batteries boast a long lifespan and can endure up to 3,000 charge cycles, three times longer than lead acid batteries. Their long lifespan is made possible thanks to their chemical makeup; an optimal temperature range ensures they retain at least 80% of their capacity over time.
Lithium-ion technology holds numerous advantages over lead-acid batteries in terms of longevity. However, a number of factors can impede this, such as storage environment, deep cycling practices and charging practices.
Improper storage can compromise a battery’s ability to hold its charge, shortening its lifespan and diminishing its longevity. When not in use, batteries should be stored between 40%-50% charged when not stored properly.
Lithium-ion batteries should only be charged every few months or so in order to extend their lifespan and protect their delicate nature from heat damage; for this reason they should be stored in cool environments.
If you have questions on how to extend the lifespan of your battery or are curious about its other advantages, reach out today – we will help find you just the right battery solution!
Manufacturers typically estimate a lithium-ion battery will last five years or 2,000 charging cycles with proper care and use; however, in certain conditions this lifespan could reach as far as three thousand charge cycles!
Compact Size
Lithium-ion batteries are commonly found in electronic devices like smartphones, tablets and laptops; they’re also popularly found in watches and flashlights.
lithium-ion batteries’ primary advantage lies in their capacity to store large amounts of energy. This is achieved thanks to their large stores of lithium ions on both electrodes, providing a constant electrical current through moving ions between anode and cathode electrodes.
Lithium-ion batteries offer many other attractive characteristics. Their design includes a safety mechanism which stops transport of ions once their core temperature reaches 130degC (266degF), thus protecting from overheating or potential explosion if overcharged.
As such, lithium batteries tend to be more durable than other battery types and last longer during use. Unfortunately, however, they’re not suitable for long-term storage and should be charged regularly in order to prevent capacity loss over time.
Lithium-ion batteries offer unique flexibility. Their compact size and adaptability enable them to meet the requirements of different applications with ease.
These batteries are both small in size and very lightweight, thanks to being constructed using gelled electrolyte instead of liquid one – this makes for easier packaging, and in certain instances may eliminate the need for metal shells altogether.
Lithium-ion batteries may initially cost more than their NiMH or NiCd counterparts; however, their prices should become increasingly affordable as manufacturing processes become more efficient.
Economical
Lithium-ion batteries are an innovative clean technology with great potential. By powering everyday items with renewable energy and providing electrification of vehicles, lithium-ion batteries enable more renewable power storage within power grids.
Lithium-ion batteries differ significantly from their lead-acid counterparts in that they do not require periodic discharge, leading to minimal maintenance needs and costs.
Lithium-ion batteries can also be more cost-effective over time, which explains why they are often referred to as “GREENER.”
These batteries also make an ideal choice for regenerative braking and solar energy collection, storing vast amounts of sunlight during sunny spells before returning it into the grid when weather turns adverse.
These batteries can also withstand temperature extremes more effectively, making them useful in many different applications. Furthermore, their capacity is far superior compared to that of traditional battery types.
However, lithium batteries come with their own set of drawbacks. Manufacturing them is more costly than other types and they must be stored in a cool environment when not in use; furthermore they may have transportation restrictions limiting how you transport them – all factors which render them unsuitable for some applications despite still being an ideal solution for others.