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What is li ion battery

lithium-ion-battery-pack

Introduction to Lithium-Ion Batteries

Lithium-ion batteries are more than just a power source; they are a transformative technology that has revolutionized energy storage across many sectors. From powering the smallest consumer electronics to driving the biggest electric vehicles, lithium-ion batteries have become synonymous with efficiency and reliability.
Historical Context:
  • Development: The development of lithium-ion batteries began in the 1970s, with the first non-rechargeable lithium batteries. The rechargeable versions were commercially introduced by Sony in 1991, after which they rapidly began to replace older nickel-cadmium batteries, due to their superior characteristics.
  • Innovation and Improvement: Over the decades, continuous improvements in cathode materials and electrolyte solutions have significantly increased the energy density, cycle life, and safety of these batteries.
Fundamental Properties:
  • Chemistry and Composition: At their core, lithium-ion batteries consist of three main components: a lithium-based cathode, a carbon anode, and an electrolyte. The choice of materials for the cathode and anode and the quality of the electrolyte play critical roles in defining the battery’s performance, temperature range, and safety.
  • Energy Storage Mechanism: These batteries store energy through the movement of lithium ions between the cathode and anode during charge and discharge cycles. This ionic movement is facilitated by the electrolyte, which supports ionic conductivity while insulating electrical contacts to prevent short circuits.

li-ion-battery

Detailed Working of Lithium-Ion Batteries

Understanding the electrochemical reaction that powers lithium-ion batteries provides insights into their efficiency and capabilities:
  1. During Discharge:
    1. The Movement of Ions: When the battery discharges, lithium ions move from the anode to the cathode through the electrolyte while electrons flow through the external circuit to power the device.
    2. Energy Release: The movement of electrons from the anode to the cathode through the external circuit releases energy, which is harnessed to power electronic devices.
  2. During Charging:
    1. Ion Migration: During charging, an external electrical power source forces electrons to move back to the anode, pushing lithium ions back through the electrolyte from the cathode to the anode.
    2. Energy Storage: This movement recharges the battery by restoring the lithium ions to their original position in the anode, readying the battery for another discharge cycle.
Charging Dynamics:
  • Rate of Charging: The rate at which a lithium-ion battery can be charged is dependent on the speed at which the lithium ions can safely migrate from the cathode to the anode without causing undue stress or heat, which could degrade the battery’s materials.
  • Thermal Management: Proper thermal management during charging is crucial to maintaining battery integrity and longevity. Excessive heat during charging can lead to thermal runaway, which can damage the battery or, in extreme cases, cause it to catch fire or explode.

Applications of Lithium-Ion Batteries

The versatility of lithium-ion batteries can be seen in their wide range of applications, each benefiting from different aspects of the technology:
  1. Consumer Electronics:
    1. Devices Powered: Smartphones, laptops, tablets, and portable power tools all rely on lithium-ion batteries for their energy needs.
    2. Benefits Utilized: The high energy density and ability to scale down in size make lithium-ion batteries ideal for portable devices.
  2. Electric Vehicles (EVs):
    1. Role in EVs: Lithium-ion batteries are critical for the propulsion of electric vehicles. They provide the high energy necessary to power electric motors and manage the extensive range of requirements.
    2. Innovation in EVs: The push for more efficient and longer-lasting batteries has led to innovations in lithium-ion technology, particularly in increasing the range and reducing the charging time.
  3. RenXtorage for Renewable Energy:
    1. Integration with Renewable Sources: Lithium-ion batteries are increasingly used to store energy from renewable sources such as solar and wind, allowing for the stabilization of power supply and improving grid reliability.
    2. Grid Storage and Backup: These batteries provide essential backup and load-leveling capabilities, ensuring a consistent energy supply despite the intermittent nature of renewable sources.

Safety Concerns with Lithium-Ion Batteries

Lithium-ion batteries, while efficient and powerful, pose certain safety risks if not properly managed. Understanding these risks and implementing safety measures are crucial for maintaining battery health and ensuring user safety.
  1. Thermal Runaway:
    1. Cause: Thermal runaway occurs when a battery overheats, leading to a self-sustaining chain reaction that can result in fires or explosions. This can be triggered by overcharging, physical damage, or manufacturing defects.
    2. Prevention: To prevent thermal runaway, it’s important to use a battery management system (BMS) that monitors the battery’s temperature, voltage, and current, and interrupts the power if critical values are exceeded.
  2. Electrolyte Leakage:
    1. Risks: Some lithium-ion batteries use liquid electrolytes that, if leaked, can cause corrosion or short circuits, potentially leading to fire hazards.
    2. Management: Using batteries with robust casing and built-in safety vents can help prevent leaks and contain any potential issues within the battery itself.

Best Practices for Maintaining Lithium-Ion Batteries

Proper maintenance of lithium-ion batteries not only enhances their performance but also extends their lifespan and reduces safety risks.
  1. Regular Monitoring:
    1. Voltage and Current Checks: Regularly monitor the voltage and current during charging and discharging to ensure they remain within safe limits. Avoid complete discharges and overcharges as they stress the battery.
    2. Temperature Monitoring: Keep the battery at room temperature. Avoid exposure to high temperatures to prevent overheating and potential thermal runaway.
  2. Routine Inspections:
    1. Visual Inspections: Regularly inspect the battery for signs of swelling, overheating, or damage to the battery case. These signs can indicate internal problems that could lead to failure.
    2. Cleaning Contacts: Keep battery contacts clean and free from debris to ensure good electrical connection and prevent power inefficiencies.
  3. Proper Storage:
    1. Charge Level for Storage: Store lithium-ion batteries at a 50% charge level if not in use for an extended period. This minimizes the stress on the battery during storage.
    2. Cool and Dry Environment: Store batteries in a cool and dry place. High moisture levels can lead to corrosion and other issues.

Himax Electronics’ Role in Advancing Lithium-Ion Battery Technology

Himax Electronics is at the forefront of developing technologies that enhance the safety and performance of lithium-ion batteries.
  1. Innovative Battery Management Systems:
    1. Smart BMS Solutions: Himax offers sophisticated BMS solutions that intelligently monitor and manage the state of charge, state of health, and overall battery performance, ensuring optimal safety and extending the battery’s lifespan.
    2. Integration Capabilities: These systems integrate seamlessly with existing battery technologies, providing real-time data and control options to prevent unsafe operating conditions.
  2. Advanced Charging Technologies:
    1. Smart Chargers: Himax provides chargers that adapt their output based on the battery’s current state and ambient conditions, preventing overcharging and overheating, thus maintaining battery integrity and safety.
    2. Efficiency Enhancements: These chargers are designed to maximize charging efficiency, reducing the time needed to charge and minimizing the energy lost as heat, which can degrade battery components over time.
  3. Customer Support and Education:
    1. Comprehensive Support: Himax offers extensive customer support, from troubleshooting assistance to detailed guidance on battery maintenance and safety.
    2. Educational Resources: Himax provides clients with educational materials that help them understand how to best use and maintain their lithium-ion batteries, contributing to safer and more efficient operations.

lithium-ion-battery

Conclusion

The proper use, regular maintenance, and understanding of lithium-ion batteries are critical to maximizing their benefits while ensuring safety. Himax Electronics enhances this realm with cutting-edge technologies and dedicated support, pushing forward the boundaries of what lithium-ion batteries can achieve. With Himax, users not only receive products but also gain a partner committed to their safety and success in using advanced energy solutions.
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How to discharge the Lipo battery

3.7v-lipo-battery

How to Safely Discharge a LiPo Battery: A Comprehensive Guide

Lithium Polymer (LiPo) batteries are popular in many high-demand electronics due to their lightweight, high energy density, and flexibility in shape and size. Properly discharging these batteries is crucial for safety, longevity, and performance. This article provides a detailed guide on safely discharging LiPo batteries, ensuring optimal use, and extending their lifecycle.

lithium-polymer-battery

Understanding LiPo Batteries

Before discharging a LiPo battery, it is important to understand its composition and how it differs from other battery types:
  • Energy Density: LiPo batteries offer high energy density, which means they can store more energy than other batteries of the same size, making them ideal for performance-critical applications.
  • Voltage Sensitivity: They require careful handling due to their sensitivity to over-discharge and overcharge, which can lead to dangerous situations, including fires.

Reasons for Discharging LiPo Batteries

Discharging LiPo batteries is not just about reducing their charge. It serves several important purposes:
  • Storage: LiPo batteries should not be stored fully charged. The ideal storage voltage for a LiPo battery is around 3.85 volts per cell.
  • Calibration: Regular discharging helps calibrate battery management systems, ensuring more accurate readings of capacity and voltage.
  • Safety: By discharging to safe levels, the risk of chemical degradation and fire is significantly reduced, especially during periods of non-use.

Equipment Needed for Safe Discharge

  • LiPo Discharger: A device designed to discharge LiPo batteries at controlled rates.
  • Voltage Checker: Essential for monitoring the voltage of each cell in the battery to prevent over-discharge.
  • Fireproof Charging Bag or Container: Provides an added layer of safety to contain any potential failures.

Step-by-Step Guide to Discharging

  1. Preparation:
    1. Set up in a well-ventilated area, free from flammable materials.
    2. Ensure the battery is at room temperature and not physically damaged.
  2. Set Up Discharge Equipment:
    1. Place the LiPo battery inside a fireproof bag.
    2. Connect the battery to the discharger, ensuring the balance leads are also connected if available.
  3. Configure the Discharger:
    1. Set the discharger to the correct voltage cut-off, usually 3.0 to 3.3 volts per cell.
    2. Adjust the discharge rate according to the battery’s specifications, typically not exceeding 1C (the battery’s capacity rate).
  4. Monitor the Discharge Process:
    1. Regularly check the cell voltages using the voltage checker.
    2. Watch for any signs of battery distress, such as swelling or excessive heat.
  5. Post-Discharge Care:
    1. Once the battery reaches the target voltage, disconnect it from the discharger.
    2. Store the battery in a cool, dry place, ideally in a fireproof container.

Safety Tips

  • Never leave the discharging battery unattended.
  • Regularly inspect the battery for signs of wear or damage.
  • Always use high-quality and compatible discharging equipment.

Choosing Himax Electronics

Opting for Himax Electronics provides numerous benefits when dealing with LiPo batteries:
  • Quality Products: Himax Electronics offers high-quality, thoroughly tested LiPo batteries and discharging equipment designed to meet rigorous safety standards.
  • Expert Advice: Our team of experts can provide detailed guidance on how to safely manage your LiPo battery needs, from charging to discharging and storage.
  • Customer Support: We are committed to providing excellent customer service and ensuring you have access to support whenever needed.

pouch-battery

Conclusion

Properly discharging your LiPo batteries is essential for maintaining their health and ensuring safe operation. You can effectively manage your batteries’ lifecycle by following the detailed steps and precautions outlined in this guide. For all your LiPo battery needs, consider Himax Electronics, where you’ll find a combination of quality, reliability, and expert support designed to help you get the most out of your battery investments.
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Iron could be key to less expensive greener lithium-ion batteries, research finds

A green battery revolution

What if a common element, rather than scarce expensive ones, was a key component in electric car batteries? A collaboration co-led by an Oregon State University chemistry researcher is hoping to spark a green battery revolution by showing that iron instead of cobalt and nickel can be used as a cathode material in lithium-ion batteries.

Multiple  reasons of  the important findings

The findings, published in Science Advances, are important for multiple reasons, Oregon State’s Xiulei “David” Ji notes.

“We’ve transformed the reactivity of iron metal, the cheapest metal commodity,” he said. “Our electrode can offer a higher energy density than the state-of-the-art cathode materials in electric vehicles. And since we use iron, whose cost can be less than a dollar per kilogram—a small fraction of nickel and cobalt, which are indispensable in current high-energy lithium-ion batteries—the cost of our batteries is potentially much lower.”

At present, the cathode represents 50% of the cost in making a lithium-ion battery cell, Ji said. Beyond economics, iron-based cathodes would allow for greater safety and sustainability, he added.

As more and more lithium-ion batteries are manufactured to electrify the transportation sector, global demand for nickel and cobalt has soared. Ji points out that in a matter of a couple of decades, predicted shortages in nickel and cobalt will put the brakes on battery production as it’s currently done.

In addition, those elements’ energy density is already being extended to its ceiling level—if it were pushed further, oxygen released during charging could cause batteries to ignite—plus cobalt is toxic, meaning it can contaminate ecosystems and water sources if it leaches out of landfills.

Put it all together, Ji said, and it’s easy to understand the global quest for new, more sustainable battery chemistries.

 

sodium ion battery

The basic work way and basic components of  batteries

A battery stores power in the form of chemical energy and through reactions converts it to the electrical energy needed to power vehicles as well as cellphones, laptops and many other devices and machines. There are multiple types of batteries, but most of them work the same basic way and contain the same basic components.

A battery consists of two electrodes—the anode and cathode, typically made of different materials—as well as a separator and electrolyte, a chemical medium that allows for the flow of electrical charge. During battery discharge, electrons flow from the anode into an external circuit and then collect at the cathode.

In a lithium-ion battery, as its name suggests, a charge is carried via lithium ions as they move through the electrolyte from the anode to the cathode during discharge, and back again during recharging.

Effective utilization of resources

“Our iron-based cathode will not be limited by a shortage of resources,” said Ji, explaining that iron, in addition to being the most common element on Earth as measured by mass, is the fourth-most abundant element in the Earth’s crust. “We will not run out of iron ’til the sun turns into a red giant.”

Ji and collaborators from multiple universities and national laboratories increased the reactivity of iron in their cathode by designing a chemical environment based on a blend of fluorine and phosphate anions—ions that are negatively charged.

The blend, thoroughly mixed as a solid solution, allows for the reversible conversion—meaning the battery can be recharged—of a fine mixture of iron powder, lithium fluoride and lithium phosphate into iron salts.

“We’ve demonstrated that the materials design with anions can break the ceiling of energy density for batteries that are more sustainable and cost less,” Ji said.

“We’re not using some more expensive salt in conjunction with iron—just those the battery industry has been using and then iron powder. To put this new cathode in applications, one needs to change nothing else—no new anodes, no new production lines, no new design of the battery. We are just replacing one thing, the cathode.”

Storage efficiency still needs to be improved, Ji said. Right now, not all of the electricity put into the battery during charging is available for use upon discharge. When those improvements are made, and Ji expects they will be, the result will be a battery that works much better than ones currently in use while costing less and being greener.

“If there is investment in this technology, it shouldn’t take long for it to be commercially available,” Ji said. “We need the visionaries of the industry to allocate resources to this emerging field. The world can have a cathode industry based on a metal that’s almost free compared to cobalt and nickel. And while you have to work really hard to recycle cobalt and nickel, you don’t even have to recycle iron—it just turns into rust if you let it go.”

LiTypes of Lithium-ion

Contribution of  the research

The research was co-led by Tongchao Liu of Argonne National Laboratory and included Oregon State’s Mingliang Yu, Min Soo Jung and Sean Sandstrom.

Scientists from Vanderbilt University, Stanford University, the University of Maryland, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory and the SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory also contributed.

More information: Mingliang Yu et al, Unlocking Iron Metal as a Cathode for Sustainable Li-ion Batteries by an Anion Solid-Solution, Science Advances (2024). DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adn4441. www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.adn4441

Journal information: Science Advances

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What is in a lithium ion battery

What is Inside a Lithium Ion Battery? An In-depth Exploration

Lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries are integral to powering modern life, from mobile phones and laptops to electric vehicles and grid storage solutions. Understanding the components that make up these batteries is essential for appreciating their efficiency, versatility, and the cutting-edge technology behind them. This comprehensive guide details the internal workings of lithium-ion batteries and highlights the advantages of using Himax Electronics for your battery needs.

Introduction to Lithium-Ion Battery Components

A lithium-ion battery is more than just an energy storage unit; it is a complex assembly of chemistry and engineering designed to optimize energy density, longevity, and safety. Here are the key components:

  • Cathode (Positive Electrode): The cathode is a critical component that largely determines the capacity and voltage of the battery.  Mading from a lithium metal oxide compound such as lithium cobalt oxide (LiCoO2), lithium manganese oxide (LiMn2O4), or newer materials like lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4).
  • Anode (Negative Electrode): The anode stores the lithium ions when the battery is charged. Commonly made from graphite, the anode allows lithium ions to embed within its structure during charging and releases them during discharge.
  • Electrolyte: The electrolyte is the medium through which lithium ions move between the cathode and anode when the battery charges and discharges. It is typically composed of a lithium salt dissolved in an organic solvent.
  • Separator: This porous polymer membrane plays a crucial safety role by preventing physical contact between the cathode and anode, which could lead to a short circuit while allowing ions to pass through.

Lithium-Ion Battery

How Lithium-Ion Batteries Work

The basic operation of a lithium-ion battery involves the movement of lithium ions between the anode and cathode through the electrolyte:

  • During Discharge: Lithium ions flow from the anode to the cathode through the electrolyte, while electrons flow through the external circuit to the device being powered, creating an electric current.
  • During Charge: The external power source forces the electrons and lithium ions back to the anode, storing energy for future use.

Benefits of Lithium-Ion Batteries

Lithium-ion batteries offer several advantages that make them the preferred choice for a wide range of applications:

  • High Energy Density: Li-ion batteries provide a significant amount of energy per weight, which is particularly valuable in portable electronics and electric vehicles.
  • Long Lifespan: They can typically handle hundreds to thousands of charge/discharge cycles.
  • Low Self-Discharge: Unlike other battery types, Li-ion batteries lose their charge very slowly when not in use.

Challenges and Safety Considerations

Despite their advantages, Li-ion batteries come with challenges:

  • Thermal Runaway Risks: If damaged or improperly managed, Li-ion batteries can overheat and lead to fires or explosions.
  • Cost and Resource Intensive: The materials used in Li-ion batteries can be expensive and involve complex manufacturing processes.

Applications of Lithium-Ion Batteries

From everyday consumer electronics to critical roles in renewable energy systems and electric vehicles, lithium-ion batteries are ubiquitous in modern technology due to their efficiency and capacity.

Choosing Himax Electronics for Lithium-Ion Batteries

Himax Electronics stands out in the lithium-ion battery market for several reasons:

  • Quality and Reliability: We provide top-quality lithium-ion batteries that meet rigorous performance and safety standards.
  • Innovation and Technology: Our commitment to research and development ensures access to the latest advancements in battery technology.
  • Expertise and Support: With extensive experience in the battery industry, Himax offers unmatched customer support and technical guidance.

Lithium-Ion Battery

Conclusion

Understanding the internal components and operation of lithium-ion batteries provides valuable insights into their functionality and widespread use. For anyone seeking reliable and high-performance lithium-ion batteries, Himax Electronics offers innovative solutions backed by expert support and quality assurance.

 

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What is li ion battery

Understanding Lithium-Ion Batteries: Technology, Benefits, and Applications

Lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries are at the forefront of modern battery technology, powering everything from the smallest electronic devices to large-scale electric vehicles and energy storage systems. This detailed guide explores lithium-ion batteries, how they work, their advantages, limitations, and why choosing Himax Electronics can enhance your experience with these batteries.
18650 li ion

Introduction to Lithium-Ion Batteries

A lithium-ion battery is a type of rechargeable battery that has become the technology of choice for a wide range of electronics, electric vehicles, and renewable energy applications. It operates on the principle of moving lithium ions between the cathode and anode in an electrolyte.

Core Components of Lithium-Ion Batteries

  • Cathode: The cathode is responsible for the voltage of the battery and is made from a lithium metal oxide.
  • Anode: Typically made from graphite, the anode stores and releases lithium ions as the battery charges and discharges.
  • Electrolyte: Composed of salts, solvents, and additives, the electrolyte is the medium through which the lithium ions move.
  • Separator: This critical component prevents physical contact between the anode and cathode while allowing ion transfer.

How Lithium-Ion Batteries Work

The operation of a lithium-ion battery is based on the movement of lithium ions:
  • Charging: During charging, lithium ions move from the cathode to the anode and are stored in the graphite layers of the anode.
  • Discharging: When discharging, the ions move back to the cathode, releasing stored energy that powers devices.

Advantages of Lithium-Ion Batteries

  • High Energy Density: One of the biggest advantages of Li-ion batteries is their high energy density. They can store more energy per unit of weight than most other types of rechargeable batteries, making them ideal for weight-sensitive applications.
  • Long Lifespan: These batteries can endure hundreds to thousands of charge and discharge cycles.
  • Low Self-Discharge: Lithium-ion batteries have a much lower rate of self-discharge than other types of rechargeable batteries.
  • Flexibility in Design: Engineers can shape lithium-ion batteries in numerous ways, which can be particularly advantageous for customizing product designs.

Limitations and Safety Considerations

Despite their many benefits, lithium-ion batteries come with challenges that must be managed:
  • Cost: They are generally more expensive to manufacture than other types of batteries.
  • Sensitivity to High Temperatures: They can degrade quickly if exposed to high temperatures.
  • Safety Risks: If damaged or improperly handled, lithium-ion batteries pose risks such as thermal runaway, which can lead to potential fires or explosions.

Applications of Lithium-Ion Batteries

  • Consumer Electronics: From smartphones to laptops, lithium-ion batteries are used due to their efficiency and long life.
  • Electric Vehicles are favored for their ability to provide a high power-to-weight ratio, enhancing vehicle performance.
  • Renewable Energy Systems: Lithium-ion batteries store excess energy generated by solar panels and wind turbines, facilitating a consistent energy supply regardless of weather conditions.

Choosing Himax Electronics for Lithium-Ion Batteries

Opting for Himax Electronics offers significant benefits:
  • Innovative Solutions: We stay at the cutting edge of battery technology, constantly developing and refining our products.
  • Superior Quality and Safety: Our batteries are engineered to meet strict safety and performance standards, ensuring reliability and durability.
  • Expert Support: Himax Electronics provides comprehensive customer support, from selecting the right battery to optimizing its usage and maintenance.

lithium ion cells

Conclusion

Lithium-ion batteries represent a dynamic and critical element in the global shift towards more efficient and renewable energy sources. Understanding these batteries’ construction, function, and care requirements can help users optimize their use and lifespan. For your lithium-ion battery needs, consider the reliability and innovation offered by Himax Electronics, where we commit to delivering high-quality, advanced battery solutions tailored to meet and exceed your expectations.
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How to properly maintain UPS lithium battery during use?

ups-system

If the UPS lithium-ion battery is not used and maintained in the correct way, the life of the battery will be shortened. Therefore, on the basis of selecting a regular standard battery, the battery must be properly protected and used.

To ensure the normal operation of UPS lithium-ion battery. We recommended to maintain the lithium battery UPS power system from the following aspects.

Pay attention to various parameters of the UPS

When using a UPS lithium battery, you should pay attention to various parameters of the UPS, such as input voltage range, output waveform, output power, power supply time and conversion time. What’s more, lithium battery brand, machine noise, volume, weight and other parameters. All kinds of UPS are not suitable for working at full load. More than 20% of the power margin should be reserved, and the load should be controlled between 40% and 60% of the rated output power of the UPS.

Proper discharge

When the UPS lithium battery is not used for a long time. We recommended to turn it on every one month and let the UPS be in the inverter working state for at least 2 to 3 minutes in order to activate the battery and extend the service life of the battery. When charging, over-current and over-voltage charging should be avoided as much as possible. Proper discharge helps activate the battery.

Maintain a suitable ambient temperature

An important factor affecting the life of UPS lithium battery is the ambient temperature. Generally, the optimal ambient temperature required by battery manufacturers is between 20-25°C. Once the ambient temperature exceeds 25°C, the battery life will be shortened by half for every 10°C increase.

Replace damaged batteries promptly

In the continuous operation and use of UPS lithium battery, due to differences in performance and quality, it is inevitable that the performance of individual batteries will decline and the storage capacity will not meet the requirements and be damaged. When certain batteries/batteries in the battery pack are damaged, maintenance personnel should inspect and test each battery to eliminate damaged batteries.

Lithium-ion battery

Do not frequently turn off and on the UPS lithium battery power supply

Generally, the UPS power supply must be turned off for 6 seconds before it can be turned on again. Otherwise, the UPS power supply may be in a “start-up failure” state.  In other words, the UPS power supply is in a state where there is neither mains output nor inverter output.

 

UPS power supply has gradually become the protector of important equipment. Due to the uncertainty of the status of UPS lithium-ion batteries, system paralysis and loss of important data have resulted in disastrous consequences and huge losses. Therefore, it is very important to use and maintain UPS lithium-ion batteries correctly.

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Lithium vs. Ni-MH Batteries: Which is Safer?

NI-MH-Battery-Pack

Compared with lithium batteries(Li-ion), nickel-metal hydride batteries(Ni-MH) are superior in terms of safety.

When evaluating battery safety, nickel-metal hydride (Ni-MH) batteries generally offer a safer profile compared to lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries. This makes Ni-MH a compelling choice for applications where thermal stability is paramount.

Why Ni-MH Batteries Excel in Safety

Ni-MH batteries possess inherent characteristics that contribute to their superior safety. Their relatively low specific heat capacity and energy density mean they are less prone to rapid temperature increases. Crucially, the high melting point of 400°C for Ni-MH batteries significantly reduces the risk of thermal runaway. Even under extreme stress conditions such as collision, extrusion, puncture, or short circuits, Ni-MH battery packs are less likely to experience a dramatic temperature surge leading to spontaneous combustion. The mature manufacturing processes and stable quality control in Ni-MH battery production further enhance their reliability and safety over time.

Understanding Lithium-Ion Battery Safety Concerns

In contrast, Li-ion battery safety presents more challenges due to the high reactivity of lithium ions and their higher energy density. The flammable nature of Li-ion battery raw materials is a critical factor. Should a Li-ion battery cell experience a short circuit or other damaging events, the internal temperature can rise sharply. This can trigger a violent chemical reaction within the electrolyte, increasing the risk of the battery pack catching fire or even exploding.

Ni-MH-battery-7.2v-3.3ah

After years of technological development, the mature manufacturing process and stable quality of nickel-metal hydride batteries have greatly improved the safety of the batteries.

In comparison, lithium batteries(Li-ion) are not as safe as nickel-metal hydride batteries, mainly because lithium ions(Li-ion) are more active and have higher energy density. At the same time, the raw materials of lithium batteries(Li-ion) are flammable. Once the battery is short-circuited due to various destructive factors and the temperature rises, the internal electrolyte will undergo a violent chemical reaction, which may cause the battery to spontaneously combust.

lithium 7.4V 8ah

As a professional battery pack manufacturer, HIMAX can not only provide high-quality nickel-metal hydride battery packs, but also provide customers with lithium-ion battery packs with reasonable design and higher safety.

Enhancing Lithium-Ion Battery Safety with HIMAX

While Li-ion batteries carry inherent risks, professional battery manufacturers like HIMAX implement advanced safety measures to mitigate these concerns. For instance, HIMAX integrates essential protection circuits such as Printed Circuit Boards (PCB) and Battery Management Systems (BMS) into their Li-ion battery designs. Additionally, further safety components like Negative Temperature Coefficient (NTC) thermistors and Positive Temperature Coefficient (PTC) devices can be incorporated to provide extra layers of protection against overheating and overcurrent. HIMAX offers both high-quality Ni-MH and meticulously designed, safer Li-ion battery solutions tailored to customer needs.

Your Trusted Battery Pack Manufacturer

HIMAX stands as a professional manufacturer specializing in LiFePO4, Lithium-ion, Li-Polymer, and Ni-MH battery packs. With 12 years of continuous innovation, HIMAX has evolved into a global leader in R&D and production, delivering customized battery solutions.

If you have specific battery requirements or safety concerns, please contact HIMAX for expert guidance.

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Investigating the origins of critical deformations in Li-ion batteries

Lithium ion batteries presently are the ubiquitous source of electrical energy in mobile devices, and the key technology for e-mobility and energy storage. Massive interdisciplinary research efforts are underway both to develop practical alternatives that are more sustainable and environmentally friendly, and to develop batteries that are safer, more performing, and longer-lasting—particularly for applications demanding high capacity and very dense energy storage.

Understanding degradations and failure mechanisms in detail opens opportunities to better predict and mitigate them.

In a new study, a team of researchers led by the Institute of Interdisciplinary Research of the CEA, the Institut Laue Langevin (ILL) and the European Synchrotron (ESRF) in collaboration has examined Lithium ion batteries during their lifetime using state-of-the-art, non-intrusive imaging techniques available at neutron and X-ray sources.

The team’s paper is published in the journal Energy & Environmental Science.

Neutrons and photons are largely complementary. Neutrons are particularly good at seeing lithium and other light elements, while X-rays are sensitive to heavy elements, such as nickel and copper. Their sophisticated combination allowed the researchers to gain multidimensional information on the components and elements inside working battery cells.

The team identified macroscopic deformations in the wound structure of the copper current collector. The deformed areas already existed in fresh battery cells that had only gone through the initial activation cycle (the first charging-discharging cycle). Further investigations revealed that these defects were due to local accumulations of silicon occurring during electrode manufacturing. Upon activation, the largest agglomerates expanded heavily, which led to deformations in the current collector, wasting capacity before the cell ever went into use.

 

sodium ion battery

It was possible to determine how large these accumulations must be to become a problem: cell structure and functioning is compromised for silicon agglomerations with a size above 50 microns. This is crucial information for both quality control and future developments. Erik Lübke, Ph.D. student at ILL and the main author of the study, summarizes, “In fact, resources are wasted when this happens, and we have quantified the effects and understood their causes.”

Full-field, high-resolution 3D transmission tomography enabled the inspection of the entire volume of the battery cell, revealing the presence of a number of defect features. These were more closely investigated at selected cross-sectional 2D slices.

The neutron tomography scans (with simultaneous low intensity X-ray computed tomography scans) were carried out at the NeXT instrument of the ILL. Synchrotron X-ray tomography scans of the very same cells were then measured at the ESRF using two beamlines, BM05 and the high-energy ID31 beamline for phase-contrast and scattering tomography respectively.

At NeXT, 3D high resolution neutron tomography is coupled with X-ray tomography to image the entire cell. Erik Lübke explains, “X-rays give the basic structure, making it possible to know exactly where we are when we use neutrons to examine the spatial distribution of lithium in detail,” benefiting from “the best neutron resolution you can get anywhere in the world.”

Selected parts of the cell were then examined in further detail using several different X-ray tomography techniques at the ESRF high-energy beamlines. Acquiring data during the battery charging process (a so-called operando experiment) made it possible to gather more information about the reaction dynamics in the defective regions: Lithium diffusion is partly blocked there, and even when most of the cell is fully charged these areas remain without lithium in their center.

To ensure the industrial relevance of the results, the team tested cylindrical silicon-based lithium ion battery cells manufactured according to industry standards. Cells of this format are in commercial use in small electronic devices such as medical sensors, headphones, and smart devices. However, the size was reduced for a better compatibility with the experimental requirements. Both fresh cells and aged ones (cycled over 700 times with roughly 50% remaining capacity) were imaged, in charged and discharged states. The different techniques were applied to the very same cells.

More information: Erik Lübke et al, The origins of critical deformations in cylindrical silicon based Li-ion batteries, Energy & Environmental Science (2024). DOI: 10.1039/D4EE00590B

Journal information: Energy & Environmental Science

Provided by Institut Laue-Langevin

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Scientists determine disorder improves lithium-ion battery life

18650 Battery 3.7V

What determines the cycle life of batteries? And, more importantly, how can we extend it? An international research team led by TU Delft has discovered that local disorder in the oxide cathode material increases the number of times  lithium ion battery can be charged and discharged. Their results have been published in Nature.

Rechargeable batteries are a key ingredient of the energy transition, especially now that more and more renewable energy is becoming available. Among the many types of rechargeable batteries, Lithium ion battery pack are among the most powerful and widely used ones.

To electrically connect them, layered oxides are often used as electrodes. However, their atomic structure becomes unstable when the battery is being charged. This ultimately affects the battery cycle life.

To solve this problem, the “Storage of Electrochemical Energy” group at TU Delft teamed up with international researchers. Qidi Wang, the paper’s lead author says, “The layered oxide used as cathode material for Li-ion batteries is neatly ordered. We conducted a structure design study to introduce chemical short-range disorder into this material through an improved synthesis method. As a result, it became more stable during battery use.”

Himax - decorating image

The improved structural stability almost doubled the battery’s capacity retention after 200 charging/discharging cycles. In addition, this chemical short-range disorder increases the charge transfer in the electrode, resulting in shorter charging times. The team demonstrated these advantages for well-established commercial cathodes such as lithium cobalt oxide (LiCoO2) and lithium nickel manganese cobalt oxide (NMC811).

The outcomes could lead to a new generation of Li-ion batteries, with a lower manufacturing cost and smaller CO2 footprint per unit of energy stored over its lifetime. The team will next investigate if the same material design principles can be used to build cathodes from raw materials that are less scarce.

“Both cobalt and nickel are so-called critical materials for energy technologies and it would be a good thing to reduce the use these materials in batteries,” says the paper’s senior author, Marnix Wagemaker.

More information: Qidi Wang, Chemical short-range disorder in lithium oxide cathodes, Nature (2024). DOI: 10.1038/s41586-024-07362-8. www.nature.com/articles/s41586-024-07362-8

Journal information: Nature

Provided by Delft University of Technology

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Cost-effective, high-capacity and cyclable lithium-ion battery cathodes

LiTypes of Lithium-ion

Charge-recharge cycling of lithium-super-rich iron oxide, a cost-effective and high-capacity cathode for new-generation lithium-ion batteries, can be greatly improved by doping with readily available mineral elements.

The energy capacity and charge-recharge cycling (cyclability) of lithium-iron-oxide, a cost-effective cathode material for rechargeable lithium-ion batteries, is improved by adding small amounts of abundant elements. The development, achieved by researchers at Hokkaido University, Tohoku University, and Nagoya Institute of Technology, is reported in the journal ACS Materials Letters.

Lithium ion batteries have become indispensable in modern life, used in a multitude of applications including mobile phones, electric vehicles, and large power storage systems.

A constant research effort is underway to increase their capacity, efficiency, and sustainability. A major challenge is to reduce the reliance on rare and expensive resources. One approach is to use more efficient and sustainable materials for the battery cathodes, where key electron exchange processes occur.

The researchers worked to improve the performance of cathodes based on a particular lithium-iron-oxide compound. In 2023, they reported a promising cathode material, Li5FeO4, that exhibits a high capacity using iron and oxygen redox reactions. However, its development encountered problems associated with the production of oxygen during charging-recharging cycling.

“We have now found that the cyclability could be significantly enhanced by doping small amounts of abundantly available elements such as aluminum, silicon, phosphorus, and sulfur into the cathode’s crystal structure,” says Associate Professor Hiroaki Kobayashi at the Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Hokkaido University.

18500 3.7v 1100mah Lithium battery

A crucial chemical aspect of the enhancement proved to be the formation of strong ‘covalent’ bonds between the dopant and oxygen atoms within the structure. These bonds hold atoms together when electrons are shared between the atoms, rather than the ‘ionic’ interaction between positive and negatively charged ions.

“The covalent bonding between the dopant and oxygen atoms makes the problematic release of oxygen less energetically favorable, and therefore less likely to occur,” says Kobayashi.

The researchers used X-ray absorption analysis and theoretical calculations to explore the fine details of changes in the structure of the cathode material caused by introducing different dopant elements. This allowed them to propose theoretical explanations for the improvements they observed. They also used electrochemical analysis to quantify the improvements in the cathode’s energy capacity, stability and the cycling between charging and discharging phases, showing an increase in capacity retention from 50% to 90%.

“We will continue to develop these new insights, hoping to make a significant contribution to the advances in battery technology that will be crucial if electric power is to widely replace fossil fuel use, as required by global efforts to combat climate change,” Kobayashi concludes.

The next phase of the research will include exploring the challenges and possibilities in scaling up the methods into technology ready for commercialization.

More information: Hiroaki Kobayashi et al, Toward Cost-Effective High-Energy Lithium-Ion Battery Cathodes: Covalent Bond Formation Empowers Solid-State Oxygen Redox in Antifluorite-Type Lithium-Rich Iron Oxide, ACS Materials Letters (2024). DOI: 10.1021/acsmaterialslett.4c00268

Provided by Hokkaido University