Discover the different types of lithium batteries

Lithium-ion batteries are ubiquitous. They were developed in the early 90s, thanks to three main advantages: their higher energy density compared to previously used technologies, their lightness, and the lack of memory effect, unlike Nickel-Cadmium batteries. It is this balance between energy density and weight that positions lithium batteries among the best energy storage systems on the market.
However, there are several types of lithium batteries, each with its own advantages and disadvantages: lithium-nickel-manganese-cobalt batteries, lithium-cobalt-aluminum batteries, lithium-polymer batteries, and lithium-iron-phosphate batteries.

Batteries are energy storage systems made up of a variety of elements that react together through chemical reactions. The characteristics of each lithium battery technology depend on internal and external parameters, such as the composition of elements (electrodes, electrolyte, etc.) and their interactions. Through this article, we will discuss two types of lithium batteries that are widespread on the market.

Lithium technologies

Lithium-Nickel-Manganese-Cobalt Batteries (NMC)

Lithium-ion batteries stand out for their large storage capacity in a small volume and low weight. These batteries, therefore, have a considerably high energy density. As a result, this technology is widely present in the market for portable devices, green mobility, energy storage, and more. The lithium-nickel-manganese-cobalt technology is indeed the most widespread. It has energy values ranging between 150 Wh/kg and 200 Wh/kg. The lithium-ion (NMC) battery is made up of a multilayer cathode composed of nickel, cobalt, and manganese.

At Batteries Prod, we have selected lithium-ion NMC for the design of custom-made batteries. With several years of experience and mastered know-how, Batteries Prod is committed to providing reliable, guaranteed, and risk-free batteries.

Lithium-iron-phosphate batteries (LiFePo4)

Lithium-iron-phosphate batteries replace, among others, lead-acid batteries. They have a similar construction to lithium-ion batteries, but they contain lithium iron phosphate in the cathode and carbon in the anode. The LiFePo4 technology has interesting advantages, but its energy value is lower than that of NMC batteries, ranging between 90 Wh/kg and 120 Wh/kg. However, this technology has a high power density, and LiFePo4 batteries are used in the industry for medium-power traction applications and even for heavy traction.
This technology is advantageous in terms of its lifespan (stability of the positive electrode), with lithium-iron-phosphate batteries capable of reaching approximately 2000 charge/discharge cycles, compared to just a few hundred for most lead-acid batteries. These batteries are selected for stationary energy storage. They also tolerate high temperatures, operating from 0° to 60°C. Furthermore, they are safe and stable.

However, this technology has its drawbacks. For the same power, a lithium-iron-phosphate battery is heavier and bulkier than a lithium-ion (NMC) battery.

Other lithium battery technologies are currently being studied, such as lithium-air and lithium-sulfur batteries. The ongoing energy transition requires batteries that can store more energy with a longer lifespan, but this market is dominated by Li-ion batteries with NMC cathodes.