
Overview of the Types of Lithium-ion Batteries
There are three main types of lithium-ion batteries available today: button type, prismatic (square), and cylindrical. Each has unique applications and structural advantages, making lithium-ion technology the most widely used energy source across industries.
Key Electrochemical Performance Parameters
- Rated Voltage: Standard commercial lithium-ion batteries operate at 3.6V, within a range of 4.1–2.4V.
- Rated Capacity: Determined by discharging at a constant current of 0.2C until the cutoff voltage.
- 1C Capacity: Obtained when discharging at 1C; a smaller difference from rated capacity indicates better current characteristics.
- Temperature Performance: Operating temperature typically ranges from -20°C to +55°C.
- Charge Retention: After 28 days of open-circuit storage, lithium-ion batteries retain 85%+ of their charge.
- Cycle Life: Generally exceeds 500 charge cycles, depending on quality and usage conditions.
Solid vs. Liquid Lithium-ion Batteries
According to the electrolyte type, lithium-ion batteries can be divided into:
- Liquid lithium-ion batteries (traditional type), and
- Solid or polymer lithium-ion batteries, which use solid or gel polymer electrolytes.
Polymer lithium-ion batteries are safer, lighter, and more flexible in design. Because they contain less liquid electrolyte, they are less prone to explosion, overcharging damage, or leakage.
Structural Designs
Lithium-ion batteries are usually built in winding or stacking configurations.
The next-generation polymer lithium-ion batteries can be as thin as 0.5 mm, with up to 50% higher energy density and improved cycle life compared to conventional models.
Advantages of Polymer Lithium-ion Batteries
- Excellent safety and stability
- Thin and lightweight design
- Higher capacity and power output
- Lower internal resistance
- Flexible shape customization
- Smooth discharge performance
- Simplified protection board design
These features make polymer lithium-ion batteries ideal for smartphones, medical equipment, drones, and wearable devices.
External Reference
For deeper insight, visit Battery University’s lithium-ion battery overview .
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