Li-ion batteries are indispensable in our society. But how do they work exactly? What are the advantages?
Lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries are a common and popular form of rechargeable batteries used in various devices and applications. From electric vehicles (EVs) to smartphones, from drones to hand tools, Li-ion batteries have had a tremendous impact on our daily lives. Let's delve deeper into what a Li-ion battery is and how it works.
Structure of a Li-ion Battery
A Li-ion battery consists of several components that work together to store and release electrical energy. The main components are:
- Anode: This is the negative electrode of the battery, usually made of graphite. When the battery is charged, lithium ions move from the cathode to the anode and are stored in the graphite structure.
- Cathode: The positive electrode of the battery, usually made of a lithium metal oxide, such as lithium cobalt oxide (LiCoO2) or lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4). During discharge of the battery, lithium ions flow from the anode to the cathode.
- Separator: This is a thin, porous material located between the anode and cathode to prevent them from making direct contact. The separator is essential to prevent short circuits while lithium ions move between the electrodes.
- Electrolyte: A liquid (usually a lithium salt solution) that conducts lithium ions between the anode and cathode during the charging and discharging of the battery.
Operation of a Li-ion Battery
- Charging: When a Li-ion battery is charged, lithium ions are moved from the cathode to the anode. The anode absorbs these lithium ions into the graphite structure. During this process, the cathode transforms into a lithium polymer.
- Discharging: When the battery is used, the lithium ions flow from the anode back to the cathode through the electrolyte. This movement of lithium ions creates an electric current used to power devices.
- Energy Release: During discharge, the battery releases the stored electrical energy absorbed during charging. This provides the required power for devices such as smartphones, laptops, and more.
Discover the benefits of these batteries here!