Lithium-ion Cells are a type of rechargeable battery. The lithium-ion moves between the anode and the cathode. It moves from the anode to the cathode whilst it is discharging, and moves in reverse when charging form the cathode to the anode. These types of cells are very often used in consumer electronics and are one of the more popular types of battery for portable electronic devices.
They have extremely good energy-to-weight ratios, and they also have a slow loss of charge and no memory effects. In addition to consumer uses, they are also used for defense purposes, aerospace and automotive applications because of their high density. Misuse and mishandling can cause these types of cells to explode.
Some of the uses for lithium-ion cells can include: hearing aids, laptops, cameras, electronic notebooks, and battery driven vehicles such as mobility scooters and some battery driven bicycles.
There are three primary components that are important to a lithium-ion battery, and these are
Electrolyte, Cathode and Anode
These can be manufactured from various materials of which graphite is the most popular material for the anode. The cathode will generally be made from one of three materials such as, spinel, polyanion or lithium cobalt oxide. The choice of these materials when considering manufacture of lithium-ion cells, can have a dramatic effect on the capacity, voltage and life of the battery, and these qualities should be taken into consideration for the necessary requirements when purchasing.
There is a difference between lithium- ion batteries and lithium batteries. The later contain metallic lithium and are known as primary batteries.
They need to be handled and used with care, and the life of these batteries can be prolonged with the correct use.
Some guidelines for prolonging them can include:
Never allow the battery to become frozen
Purchase when required as they ' age ' and this will affect performance
Charge often
Do not frequently fully discharge and recharge
Never deplete below their minimum voltage
If possible keep the battery cool
Storing ones at their correct charge and temperature will help maintain its storage capacity.
Lithium-Ion Cells