There are six lithium-ion battery types on the market we may encounter as consumers. Although if we ask which version is in a product, we are likely to hear “well lithium-ion of course”. Those battery types are not interchangeable, so what we get is what we have to live with. Fortunately for consumers, suppliers generally choose the optimum lithium-ion battery for their products.
Six Types of Lithium-Ion Batteries on the Market
- Lithium cobalt oxide batteries are common in electric vehicles and phones, where the material acts as cathode. Their high operating density, and voltage also make them popular in domestic, commercial and grid storage.
- Lithium manganese oxide batteries use manganese dioxide for their cathode. We find them in medical devices, power tools, and electric bikes. Their components are generally earth-abundant, inexpensive, and non-toxic with improved thermal stability.
- Lithium nickel manganese cobalt oxide batteries are in common use in electric cars and mobile devices, although they may overheat. Their cathodes combine nickel, manganese, and cobalt to deliver either high density, or high power.
- Lithium nickel cobalt aluminum oxide batteries deliver a high-energy solution for electric vehicle makers targeting greater driving ranges. Their aluminum current collectors provide good specific energy, improved long-term cycling stability, and faster charging.
- Lithium-iron phosphate batteries offer lower resistance and greater thermal stability, by using phosphate for their cathode. Their lower cost, high safety, low toxicity, and long cycle life make them attractive for electric vehicles, utilities, and backup storage.
- Lithium titanate batteries have cathodes comprising lithium, titanium, and oxygen. This combination allows faster recharging and greater density, albeit at the cost of much lower capacity and voltage.
These six lithium-ion battery types each have their positive and negative attributes. Scientists continue to search for better all-round lithium-ion cathodes. We follow up on their achievements when these hold promise for future applications.
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