Rechargeable lithium ion batteries are used in all walks of life. But did you ever stop to wonder how they work? Read on to learn all you need to know.

You buy rechargeable lithium ion batteries regularly. You use them for most of your electronics. You also know that they last longer. And, they will help you save money.

One day, your son comes home from school and wants you to help him with a science project. The assignment involves the inner-workings of lithium ion batteries. You're at a loss. You bought lithium ion batteries for years, but you have no idea how they work.

How does a lithium-ion battery work?

It comprises an anode and cathode that store the lithium itself. The positively-charged ions move from the anode to the cathode. The flow of currents between the anode and cathode recharges the battery.

However, lithium ion batteries rely on other factors to generate energy. This article will provide an in-depth review of these rechargeable batteries. Let's explore.

The Role of Lithium

The lithium component of the battery transfers energy. Its lightweight and conductive properties also generate high amounts of energy. Because of its metallic quality, however, lithium can be very unstable as it generates energy. That's why lithium batteries tend to be erratic in nature.

This is where lithium ion comes into play, as it's non-metallic quality has the same properties as standard lithium. When it comes to lithium ion, they rely on lithium compounds, which are far more stable. Lithium batteries rely on pure lithium to provide energy, which proves to be unstable.

And, lithium batteries aren't rechargeable. With lithium ion, you can recharge the batteries several hundred times. However, lithium ion batteries have a lower density than lithium batteries.

Compared to other rechargeable batteries, lithium ion has a higher energy density. In other words, it can store more energy in a smaller capacity. Also, lithium ion retains a charge for longer periods than other rechargeable. This is because they have a lower discharge rate than other varieties.

Lithium Ion Types

Various types of lithium ion batteries will provide more energy to certain electronics, tools, and machines. Batteries with higher current levels provide energy to power tools, mobile electronics, or electric cars.

For instance, the lithium cobalt oxide variety has a moderate performance that's fit for laptops or smartphones. The lithium manganese oxide brand powers tools or medical devices. Both types of batteries have a lower lifespan when compared to other types.

Lithium nickel cobalt aluminum oxide carries some of the highest energies, but it's normally reserved for powertrains. And, it's less safe and more unstable than other battery types. The lithium titanate variety is safer and has a longer lifespan. However, it's mostly reserved for solar energy storage.

Cathode and Anode

Regardless of the battery type, lithium ion batteries rely on cathodes and anodes for energy transference. The cathode constitutes the positive electrode, and the anode constitutes the negative electrode. The cathode comprises a metal oxide, and the anode derives from porous carbon.

The electrolyte acts as the conductor between the two. When the discharge occurs, the ions move from the cathode to the anode. From there, it goes through the separator and the electrolyte.

Overall, a lithium ion battery consists of the following components:

• Anode

• Cathode

• Separator

• Electrolyte

During the discharge process, the anode loses the electrons, and the cathode gains them.

During the charging process, the ions flow from the anode back to the anode. This allows the recharging process to occur hundreds of times.

What Is an Electrolyte?

The electrolyte transports the ions from the cathode to the anode. The electrolytes comprise the core component of the lithium ion batteries.

Manufacturers place the anode and cathode in electrolyte solutions. From there, the cathode gives electrons to the electrolyte. And, the anode takes electrodes away from the electrolyte.

When it comes to assessing the viability of electrolytes, inspectors must search for the following qualities:

• Ionic conduction

• Degradation

• Chemical reaction

For chemical reactions, examiners study the electrolyte relative to such factors as separators and substrates.

What Is the Separator?

The separator is a membrane that divides the cathode and anode. The membrane is usually made of a porous, polymeric material. The primary goal is to facilitate the transfer of ions between the cathode and anode. And, it's meant to mitigate short-circuiting.

It manages such factors as:

• Safety

• Power density

• Life cycle

They're important because they maintain the overall structure of the battery. It also enhances the performance of the battery itself.

What Are the Advantages of Lithium Ion Batteries?

One key advantage is that they're low-maintenance batteries. For instance, you don't have to prime them before recharging occurs. Since no maintenance is required, handlers aren't forced to touch toxic chemicals to prepare them properly.

Priming may be a requirement with other rechargeable. They also don't require monitoring to ensure proper performance.

More importantly, they have a higher energy density than other rechargeable batteries. This means they're more capable of powering electronics and tools. The power also remains consistent.

With lead-acid batteries, the voltage tends to drop. Additionally, lithium ion varieties have anywhere from 25 to 50% more capacity than the lead-acid batteries.

What Are the Disadvantages of Lithium Ion Batteries?

Even though lithium ion has stellar voltage, the excess voltage can cause overheating. Overheating can result in combustion or thermal instability. Because of this, manufacturers instill voltage regulators in certain types of lithium ion batteries.

Another problem is that they lose viability over time. They will also fail to stop working after a certain number of years. With that, you can ensure maximum performance by storing them in a room-safe temperature.

• Note: Lithium ion batteries cannot withstand high temperatures. And, they can degrade over time if overcharging occurs frequently.

Consumers may also find the cost to be a barrier. Lithium ion batteries tend to be 40 percent higher than standard Ni-Cd batteries.

Which Is the Best Type of Rechargeable Lithium Ion Battery?

The best type of rechargeable lithium ion battery depends on the item being powered. Lithium cobalt oxide batteries are best for laptops and other electronics. And, lithium nickel cobalt aluminum oxide typically powers heavy-duty products.

Regardless, consumers can save money through rechargeable means instead of using conventional batteries. This is because the cathode and anode provide steady energy transference on a repeated basis. Both components charge the batteries over the years.

Interested in learning more? Read more of our blog to learn additional information about electronics.