What Is A Lithium Battery?

Many people like you wonder what is lithium. Meaning they want to know the difference between lithium batteries and other types of batteries like lead acid.

So what exactly is a lithium battery?

A lithium battery, also known as a lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery, is any type of battery that uses the mineral Lithium as one of the main components in its construction. Lithium batteries are known for their light weight and long lifespans and are used in many applications, from mobile phones, laptops, electric vehicles to solar generation.

Lithium-ion batteries typically follow the same design consisting of a cathode (positive electrode) made of some kind of Lithium metal, an anode (negative electrode) made of Graphite or Silicon, and a lithium salt as the electrolyte.

Some of the more notable types of Lithium-ion batteries are:

●Lithium Iron Phosphate LFP (LiFePO4)

●Lithium Cobalt Oxide LCO (LiCoO2)

●Lithium Manganese Oxide LMO (LiMn2O4)

●Lithium Nickel Cobalt Aluminium Oxide NCA (LiNiCoAlO2)

●Lithium Nickel Manganese Cobalt Oxide NMC (LiNixMnyCozO2)

●And more…  

Since the 1960s Lithium batteries have gone through many changes with each successive generation being better in terms of cost, lifespan, energy density, and other aspects.

Nowadays, in solar energy circles, LiFePO4 (LFP) batteries are the best lithium-ion batteries on the market, boasting many areas where they are superior to other lithium and lead-acid batteries.

What is a Lithium Iron Phosphate LiFePO4 battery?

An LFP or LiFePO4 stands for lithium iron phosphate. If you are wondering where the ‘F’ comes from. It comes from Ferrum, the Latin word for Iron. LFP batteries have a Lithium Iron Phosphate cathode and Graphite anode, which gives them a lower energy density in exchange for increased safety and better performance in other aspects such as discharge rate.

So how does an LFP battery stack up to other lithium-ion batteries?

LiFePO4 vs Lithium-ion Batteries

We are going to compare Lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries to other Lithium-ion batteries in six categories:
1.Cost

2.Energy Density

3.Energy Discharge Rate

4.Lifespan

5.Safety

6.Charging

Volt and energy of LiFePO4/LiFeMnPO4/ NiCd/Lead acid Batteries

Lithium Iron Phosphate battery for high power applications, such as EV car , Power Tool and RC hobby.  LFP cells feature with high discharging current, non explosive, long cycle life (>[email protected] rate, IEC Standard), but its energy density is lower than normal Li-Ion cell (Li-Co) (higher NiMH cell). Please click Knowledge on LiFePO4 battery to learn more detail.  LFP cell has 3.2V nominal working voltage and shall be cut-off power at 3.6-3.8V per cell during charging. Please see the table below to see comparison between LFP and other rechargeable batteries. LFP battery has the lowest cost if considering its long cycle life

How long do lithium batteries last?

Roughly speaking, depending on the quality and type, your lithium battery can last anywhere from two to over ten years. More affordable lithium-ion batteries typically have between 500 and 3000 life cycles. While premium Lithium Iron Phosphate LFP batteries can last anywhere from 3500 to over 4000 cycles. 

Other external factors also influence the performance and lifespan of your batteries. Therefore, proper storage and use will protect and preserve your batteries so they last longer.

When not being used, it’s recommended to store your batteries in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. When recharging, you should follow the manufacturer’s instructions to prevent overcharging, misconfigurations and other actions that can negatively impact battery life. Doing this will ensure your battery will last for the longest possible time.

Do lithium batteries last longer?

Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4, LFE) is kind of Li-Ion rechargeable battery for high power applications, such as EV car , Power Tool and RC hobby.  LFP cells feature with high discharging current, non explosive, long cycle life (>[email protected] rate, IEC Standard), but its energy density is lower than normal Li-Ion cell (Li-Co) (higher NiMH cell). Please click Knowledge on LiFePO4 battery to learn more detail.  LFP cell has 3.2V nominal working voltage and shall be cut-off power at 3.6-3.8V per cell during charging. Please see the table below to see comparison between LFP and other rechargeable batteries. LFP battery has the lowest cost if considering its long cycle life

Lithium batteries are well-known for having longer lifespans than other types of batteries. For example, LFP batteries have over 4000 charge-discharge cycles, that’s over 10 years of daily use. Compared to other types of batteries, LFP batteries have 8x more lifespan than Flooded Lead-Acid batteries and over 4x more lifespan than Gel and AGM batteries.

6 Advantages of LiFePO4 Batteries

6 main advantages of LiFePO4 batteries are as follow:

1: Less Degradation & Long Life

LiFePO4 has a long life cycle as compared to other batteries and has 1,000-10,000 cycles. Lithium iron phosphate has an excellent discharge rate and has less degradation at high temperatures. Because of their extended life features, you can use these batteries for various applications. A standard qualified LiFePO4 battery remains 80% DOD till 2000 cycles of discharging and charging.

2: No Harm to the Environment

Lithium iron phosphate batteries are eco-friendly and do not contain harmful metals. They are non-contaminating and non-toxic and are less costly than other lithium-ion and Lithium polymer batteries.

3: Compact Size & Lightweight

Lithium iron phosphate batteries have a compact size and high power density. They are lightweight and have no memory effect.  Lithium iron phosphate batteries don’t require priming, and less maintenance is required for their care. They are gaining fame due to their small size, lightweight, stability at high temperatures and low cost.

4: High Safety & Efficiency

No downtime and fast charging make lithium iron phosphate more efficient and safe to use. These batteries can deliver a high discharge pulse rate in a short time and have constant discharge voltage. The chemical and thermal stability make lithium iron phosphate batteries more reliable and safe.

5: Withstand Extreme Weather Condition & Temperature

These batteries can withstand extreme weather conditions and temperature, and the battery remains cool at high temperatures. They don’t have thermal runaways and don’t explode when they overheat or overcharge.

6: Good Storage & Suitable for Various Applications

Lithium iron phosphate batteries use for various applications such as electronic machines, military, medical applications, and electric motors. For a cheap battery alternative, these batteries can be a good choice. Safe iron phosphate chemistry and no recycling procedure make these batteries cheaper than LiPo and Li-ion batteries.

Lithium iron phosphate batteries also have some drawbacks/disadvantages.

Lithium Iron Phosphate Battery Disadvantages

Before buying a battery, it’s important to understand its advantages and disadvantages. This will help you make informed decisions about which battery satisfies your needs.

Therefore, before moving forward with LFP batteries as your energys storage, take time to understand their caveats and benefits

1. High Cost: LiFePO4 batteries tend to be more expensive than other types of rechargeable batteries due to their special chemistry and manufacturing process. This can become an issue if multiple batteries are needed for a device or project as costs can quickly add up. 

2. Low Energy Density: LiFePO4 batteries have a lower energy density than other types of batteries. This means that at the same size, rechargeable lithium iron phosphate batteries will contain less energy than other types. If a device requires higher levels of power or needs frequent recharges, this could be a disadvantage.

3. Regulation Issues: These batteries require extra components such as balancers to ensure proper functionality and prevent damage during charging and use which can increase complexity and cost in certain situations.

Lithium (LFP) Battery Benefits

1. Longer Lifespan – Lithium iron phosphate batteries are known to have longer lifespans than most other types of rechargeable batteries.

2. Increased Safety – Lithium iron phosphate batteries are designed with materials that allow for more efficient charge/discharge cycles without overheating or posing any safety hazards.

3. Lower Cost Over Time – While lithium iron phosphate batteries may cost more initially, they provide much greater value in the long run due to their longer lifespan and increased safety.

4. 80% – 100% Depth of Discharge – You can discharge LFP batteries almost completely without worrying about causing permanent, irreparable damage to your LFP battery.

5. Eco-Friendly: LFP batteries don’t contain dangerous substances or toxic metals that cause damage to the environment.

How To Take Care Of Lithium Batteries?

Lithium batteries are a powerful and versatile energy storage device but they can wear out over time. That’s why it’s important to take proper care of them because otherwise, they won’t last long.

Here are some tips on how to take care of your lithium batteries:

1.Store Lithium Batteries Properly – It’s important to store lithium batteries correctly so that their chemical properties remain the same. Keep the battery away from extreme temperatures, humidity and direct sunlight.

If you are going to store the battery for a long time, we recommend you store it at an SoC (state of charge) between 30% to 50%. Don’t put away the battery at 100%.

2.Balance Partial Charge & Discharge Cycles – To enjoy the best Lithium-ion battery lifespan do not discharge your batteries completely. Lithium batteries perform best when they experience balanced cycles of charge and discharge. In short, don’t leave your battery full and don’t 100% discharge your batteries all the time.

3.Avoid Overcharging – Overcharging causes more strain on your lithium battery than normal usage does. Excessive voltage speeds up the degradation of your batteries.

4.Avoid Extreme Heat or Cold – Lithium batteries don’t perform well in extremely cold or hot environments. So if you plan to use a Lithium battery outdoors, make sure the environment is within the recommended optimal thermal range of the battery. 

5.Handle with Care – Always keep careful track of where your battery is placed. Avoid dropping or bumping the battery since severe impacts can damage the battery.

By following these tips and tricks for taking proper care of your lithium-ion battery, you’ll be able to max out your battery pack’s lifespan.

 Lead-Acid Battery  AGM Battery  GEL Battery  Lithium Battery