When people buy a device with lithium batteries, they don’t notice that there are 2 different types of lithium batteries that are available with some basic differences. Of them, one is slightly better than the other. Choosing the right lithium battery can give people a better performance from their device.
A lithium polymer (Li-Po) battery is a type of rechargeable battery that uses a solid polymer electrolyte to transport lithium ions between the electrodes. A lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery is a rechargeable battery that uses lithium ions to transport charge between the cathode and anode electrodes.
The cathode and anode for both Lithium ion battery and Lithium polymer battery is same. The cathode which is the positive electrode in the battery, typically is made of a metal oxide such as lithium cobalt oxide (LiCoO2), lithium manganese oxide (LiMn2O4), or lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4). The anode that is the negative electrode in the battery, typically is made of graphite or other carbon-based materials.
In case of lithium polymer battery, the electrolyte is a polymer material that acts as a conductor for the lithium ions between the cathode and anode. The electrolyte is typically a solid polymer, which offers several advantages over traditional liquid electrolytes, including improved safety and stability. In case of lithium ion battery, the electrolyte is a liquid or gel substance that acts as a conductor for the lithium ions between the cathode and anode. The electrolyte typically consists of a lithium salt in an organic solvent.
Lifespan of lithium batteries
The lifespan of a lithium-ion battery depends on several factors, including the usage patterns, temperature conditions, and charging and discharging cycles. Generally, a lithium-ion battery can last for 2 to 3 years with normal use. However, the battery life can vary widely depending on the usage patterns and conditions.
For example, if a lithium-ion battery is regularly charged and discharged to its full capacity, it may experience more wear and tear, which can reduce its lifespan. Similarly, exposing the battery to high temperatures can also accelerate the degradation process and shorten its lifespan.
Usage of Lion and LIPO batteries:
Lithium-ion batteries are commonly used in portable electronic devices such as smartphones, laptops, and electric vehicles due to their high energy density, fast charging capability, and long cycle life. Whereas, lithium polymer batteries are commonly used in portable electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops due to their high energy density, low self-discharge rate, and long cycle life.
What is the lithium chemical in the Lithium ion battery?
The lithium chemical in a lithium-ion battery is lithium cobalt oxide (LiCoO2). This is a type of cathode material that is commonly used in lithium-ion batteries due to its high energy density and stability. When the battery is charged, lithium ions move from the anode to the cathode, where they combine with cobalt oxide to form lithium cobalt oxide. During discharge, the reverse reaction occurs, with lithium ions moving back to the anode and releasing energy in the form of electrical current. Lithium cobalt oxide is just one of several cathode materials used in lithium-ion batteries, with other common materials including lithium manganese oxide, lithium iron phosphate, and lithium nickel cobalt aluminum oxide. The choice of cathode material depends on the specific application and performance requirements of the battery.
This article should have given you a decent introduction about the type of lithium batteries and key elements to help you make a better decision when buying your next device or electric vehicle.