Greetings, energy lovers! In today's post, we're going to dive into the differences between lithium-polymer (LiPo) and lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries. These two battery technologies are often used for energy storage and are widely available in the market. Let's take a closer look and see what sets them apart.
What Are Lithium-Polymer and Lithium-Ion Batteries?
Lithium-ion batteries use lithium ions as the charge carrier to create a flow of electrons. These batteries have a higher energy density than other types of batteries, and they have a longer lifespan. Lithium-polymer batteries, on the other hand, also use lithium ions, but they are bonded to a polymer electrolyte instead of a liquid electrolyte. This polymer-based battery technology allows for more flexibility in the shape and size of the battery.
Energy Density
When we talk about energy density, we are referring to the amount of energy that a battery can store per unit of its mass or volume. Li-ion batteries have a higher energy density than LiPo batteries. According to Battery University, Li-ion batteries have an energy density of 100-265 Wh/kg, while LiPo batteries have an energy density of approximately 100-200 Wh/kg. This means that Li-ion batteries can store more energy per unit of their size than LiPo batteries can.
Safety
Safety is a significant concern when it comes to batteries. Li-ion batteries are generally considered safer than LiPo batteries. LiPo batteries are more prone to swelling or puffing due to overcharging or overheating, which can lead to a thermal runaway reaction. This reaction can cause the battery to bulge or burst, releasing toxic chemicals and causing a fire. Li-ion batteries can also burst into flames if they are punctured or crushed, but this scenario is much less likely to happen than with LiPo batteries.
Cost
The cost of a battery is an essential consideration when choosing between different battery technologies. Li-ion batteries are generally more expensive than LiPo batteries. According to the Battery University, a 18650 Li-ion battery with a capacity of 2,600 mAh costs approximately $3.50-$4.50, while a 3.7V 2000mAh LiPo battery costs around $2.50-$3.50. However, the cost of both battery types largely depends on the manufacturer, quality, and size of the battery.
Conclusion
Lithium-ion and lithium-polymer batteries have their differences when it comes to energy storage. Each technology has its advantages and disadvantages, but when it comes to energy density and safety, Li-ion batteries come out on top. However, LiPo batteries are more flexible in shape and size, making them suitable for specific applications.
That concludes our comparison! We hope that this post has shed some light on the differences between Li-ion and LiPo batteries. Remember to consider your specific needs and requirements before choosing the right battery technology for your energy storage needs.
References
- Battery University. (2021). Comparing battery types: NiMH, NiCd, Li-ion, and Li-poly. [Online]. Available at: https://batteryuniversity.com/learn/article/comparing_battery_types_nimh_nicd_lead_acid_and_lithium\#li_polymer [Accessed 15 Mar. 2022].