Lithium Batteries
Lithium Batteries are commonly found in smartphones, laptop computers, and more recently in electric vehicles. Now lithium batteries are being used to provide energy storage and backup power for homes and businesses with a PV solar panel system. Lithium battery costs are declining and will be more affordable as the market expands. Check out this selection of lithium solar batteries from Enphase, LG Chem, Mercedes Benz, Samsung, Sonnen, Tesla, and others. Compare highly stable lithium iron phosphate (LiFePo4, LFP) or the less stable lithium-ion (Li-On) chemistry.
Types of Lithium Batteries
The lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) battery, also called LFP battery (Lithium Ferrophosphate), is a type of rechargeable battery, specifically a lithium-ion battery, which uses LiFePO4 as a cathode material. LiFePO4 batteries have somewhat lower energy density than the more common LiCoO2 design found in consumer electronics. However, LiFePO4 offers longer lifetimes, better power density (the rate that energy is drawn from them), and are inherently safer. The more stable chemistry means that the battery is not flammable or combustible due to puncture or extreme compression. LiFePO4 is finding many roles in electric vehicle use and home backup power storage. One significant advantage over other lithium-ion chemistries is thermal and chemical stability, which improves battery safety. Lithium iron phosphate battery cells are much harder to ignite in the event of mishandling, especially during charge. Although, any fully charged battery can only dissipate overcharge energy as heat. Therefore, failure of the battery through misuse is still possible. It is commonly accepted that LiFePO4 battery does not decompose at high temperatures.
Lithium-ion Battery Safety Test
Even if they are overcharged, punctured, or smashed, some lithium battery cells are safe enough to be free from the risk of thermal runaway without smoking, catching fire, or exploding. They also have a long service life, boasting an 80% capacity retention after repeated use for ten years, or approximately 12,000 times.