Portable Lithium-Ion Battery Technology
Lithium-ion batteries are widely used in consumer electronics. These batteries provide more energy for a smaller volume than other battery types. This is primarily due to their high energy density.
This battery chemistry also has excellent charge efficiency, low self-discharge rate and good high temperature performance. However, they are still expensive and Portable lithium-ion battery prone to failure after a few years of use.
Cost
Lithium-ion batteries are expensive. A smartphone battery costs the device manufacturer about $2 to $4 depending on its capacity, and constitutes 1 to 2% of the total cost of the phone. However, an electric car battery can cost between $7,000 and $20,000, and the lithium-ion component accounts for about half of the overall cost.
Despite their high prices, Li-ion batteries are the power source of choice for portable electronics and battery-powered cars. They have displaced nickel-cadmium and nickel-metal-hydride batteries in these markets, and have one of the highest energy density of all rechargeable batteries. They are also comparatively safe and easy to maintain.
Battery manufacturers are working to reduce production costs by using a new, low-cost lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery chemistry and by focusing on mass manufacturing. In addition, they are introducing new packaging and cell structures to improve efficiency. The battery is a critical component in an electric vehicle, and its performance is essential to the car’s range and acceleration.
Battery prices have declined faster than expected, thanks to technology advancement and economies of scale. However, they are still too expensive to compete with internal combustion engines (ICEs) in the global automotive market without subsidies or other support. This may slow the adoption of EVs, and it will likely have an adverse impact on the economics of large-scale storage projects.
Weight
Lithium-ion batteries are used in a wide range of equipment, from cordless power tools (cordless drills, saws, sanders, hedge trimmers) and laptop computers to mobile phones and tablets. Their high power density, cycle durability, recharge time, cost, and safety make them popular with consumers. Researchers are working on enhancing their performance in the areas of energy storage, battery safety, and lifecycle, as well as exploring new uses and technologies.
The weight of a lithium-ion battery depends on its size and capacity. The larger the battery, the more it weighs. It also depends on its voltage and the type of cells that Portable lithium-ion battery make up the pack. A larger cell has a higher voltage, which increases its energy density.
It is important to know how much lithium a battery contains before you buy one. AA batteries contain about 0.6 grams of lithium, while a typical cell used in an electric car or airplane has 1.8 kg. Airline policies limit the number of lithium batteries that can be carried aboard an aircraft, and some prohibit the use of lithium batteries on board altogether.
A good way to reduce battery weight is to choose a charger that stops charging when the cell reaches its Stage 1 voltage threshold. This avoids a full saturation charge, which stresses the cell and limits runtime.
Energy density
Lithium-ion batteries have one of the highest energy densities of any rechargeable battery technology. They can be used to power high-power applications, such as electric vehicles and home appliances. They also have a lower weight than other rechargeable batteries, such as nickel-cadmium and nickel-metal-hydride batteries. However, the flammable liquid electrolyte in lithium-ion batteries can cause fires, which poses a safety risk and limits their use. This is why the batteries are not permitted on commercial flights.
The battery is composed of negative (anode) and positive (cathode) electrodes, a porous separator and an electrolyte that conducts lithium ions during charging and discharging. During discharge, the electrodes undergo a series of chemical reactions that lower the cell’s chemical potential, which transfers electricity to the external circuit. The electric current then dissipates the energy through heating and conduction in the cell’s internal components.
During charging, the electrodes are reversely charged to increase the electrochemical gradient that brings Li ions from the cathode to the anode. This results in the formation of a solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) that grows thicker with each cycle. The SEI may also form dendrites that can pierce the separator and lead to short circuits, heat, and fire. To avoid these problems, researchers are developing advanced materials and battery designs. Their research includes finding ways to minimize capacity fade with aging by optimizing charging profiles.
Safety
Despite their relatively high energy density, lithium batteries can be prone to thermal runaway, a dangerous process that results in fires or explosions. This problem is most often caused by defective battery design or mishandling. However, even properly designed lithium batteries can be impacted by environmental factors such as temperature and moisture. The best way to avoid these risks is by only purchasing and using lithium batteries that are UL Listed or UL Recognized. This means that the battery has been vetted by a nationally recognized safety organization and found to be safe under simulated conditions of mishandling or damage.
Another factor that can cause lithium-ion battery failure is overcharging. Unlike other battery types, lithium-ion batteries do not get a trickle charge when they are in use and are either charging or not. In order to prevent overcharging, battery packs contain redundant safety features like vents that release built-up gases and a circuit board that strictly regulates energy flow. In addition, a backup fuse or thermostat may be used to stop the battery from overheating during recharging.
Besides being hazardous, a lithium battery fire can disrupt a flight and threaten passenger safety. Passengers can suffer from burns, chemical burns, smoke inhalation and property damage from the fire. If you were injured by a lithium-ion battery fire on an airplane, you should consult with an aviation accident lawyer immediately to discuss your options for compensation.
