Lithium batteries were first developed in 1912, but it took until the 1970s for non-rechargeable versions to become commercially available. Rechargeable lithium batteries were difficult to develop due to safety concerns, but in 1991, the first lithium-ion battery was commercialized by Sony. Lithium-ion batteries have twice the energy density of standard nickel-cadmium batteries, are low maintenance, and have a high cell voltage, allowing for smaller battery pack designs. However, they require a protection circuit to prevent overcharging, and have limited charge and discharge currents.

Lithium-ion batteries can experience capacity deterioration after one year, and often fail after two or three years of use. Other chemistries, such as nickel-metal-hydride, can also experience age-related degenerative effects. However, lithium-ion batteries have been known to last up to five years in some applications. Manufacturers are continually improving lithium-ion batteries with new chemical combinations, making it difficult to predict how well the revised batteries will age. To slow the aging process, lithium-ion batteries should be stored in a cool place with a 40% charge. The most cost-effective lithium-ion battery is the cylindrical 18650, while the prismatic lithium-ion cell is best for slim packs, despite being more expensive.

How lithium-ion battery works?

The movement of the lithium ions creates free electrons in the anode which creates a charge at the positive current collector. The electrical current then flows from the current collector through a device being powered (cell phone, computer, etc.) to the negative current collector.

Lithium ion battery Advantages

• • High energy density - potential for yet higher capacities.
  • Does not need prolonged priming when new. One regular charge is all that's needed.
  • Relatively low self-discharge - self-discharge is less than half that of nickel-based batteries.
  • Low Maintenance - no periodic discharge is needed; there is no memory.
  • Specialty cells can provide very high current to applications such as power tools.