Lithium polymer batteries, or more correctly solid electrolyte lithium-ion polymer battery cells, score well against competitors. That’s because polymer versions have higher specific densities than other lithium batteries. Plus their lighter weight also makes them attractive for use in mobile devices, radio-controlled aircraft and some electric vehicles too. We describe their design and operating principles briefly in this post.
Solid Electrolyte Lithium-Ion Battery Design
Lithium polymer cells evolved from lithium-ion and lithium-metal ones, on the premise of using a solid polymer electrolyte. The 1970’s prototype used a dry polymer solid electrolyte, with the appearance of a plastic-like film. These days there is a choice of dry, gelled, and porous types.
A typical solid electrolyte lithium-ion battery cell has the familiar components of twin electrodes, separator, and electrolyte. The latter may be polymer or polypropylene. However, in all cases the design contrasts strongly with the liquid electrolyte of lithium-ion batteries.
Working Principles of Solid Lithium-Ion Batteries
Solid electrolyte lithium-ion batteries adhere to the same working principles of almost all electrochemical cells. That is, they feature the process of intercalation, whereby ions transfer between their electrodes during the charge-recharge cycle. A microporous separator prevents the electrodes touching, and only allows the ions past.
Applications for These Solid Lithium Batteries
The polymer electrolyte design allows manufacturers to produce these batteries in a variety of shapes and sizes. Moreover, their lighter weight readily adapts them to the needs of laptops, and other mobile devices.
However, if you want to really see them in action, then a model aircraft competition could be your spot. And that’s because these polymer batteries have become almost ubiquitous in the minds of the model aircraft fraternity, who love stretching them to their limits.
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