Li-ion vs. Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4) Batteries – Introduction and Energy Density

Batteries make the main source of portable power for all our gadgets. Lithium ion comes to mind whenever we think of portable power with a great lifespan and high output specifications. However, battery technology has evolved a lot, and today, we have some other technologies that make even better alternatives to older ones.

Is LiFePO4 the same as lithium-ion?

Starting with lithium-ion batteries use lithium ions and their reversible reduction property for storing charges. Thus, these batteries can be charged and discharged when required. The lithium iron phosphate batteries, on the other hand, have more elements. Lithium does make a major part of both these batteries, but the presence of other materials changes the chemistry inside these batteries.

Being rechargeable is one similarity among these, but these two battery types are significant differences whether we consider their applications, lifespan, or efficiency. In almost every aspect, the LiFePO4 batteries make a better option than the regular lithium-ion batters.

Applications of the LiFePO4 batteries where lithium-ion batteries may not perform well.

Some of the best applications of LiFePO4 include:

Mobility Scooters

With these scooters powered by the LiFePO4, there will be nothing that slows you down on the track. No matter how many loads you put on the vehicle, the battery won't take any damage and will output up to its fullest.

3.2V 20A Low Temp LiFePO4 Battery Cell -40℃ 3C discharge capacity≥70% Charging temperature：-20~45℃ Discharging temperature: -40~+55℃ pass acupuncture test -40℃ maximum discharge rate：3C

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Solar Setup

The LiFePO4 makes a good option when you need to harness the sun's power and use it in different applications. That's why many portable solar power solutions use LiFePO4 batteries.

Small Applications

LiFePO4 batteries make a good option for use in tighter spaces where you need good power output for a specific time. From radio equipment to flashlights and electric cigarettes, the LiFePO4 can power everything, including emergency lights.

Commercial Applications

Lithium-ion batteries are not the toughest ones, while the LiFePO4 can withstand several industrial applications, including floor machines and liftgates.

Why are LiFePO4 batteries better?

While every battery type comes with its pros and cons. The LiFePO4 batteries make a better alternative for lithium-ion batteries in so many applications. It is because of the following characteristics of LiFePO4 batteries:

Low Temperature High Energy Density Rugged Laptop Polymer Battery Battery specification: 11.1V 7800mAh -40℃ 0.2C discharge capacity ≥80% Dustproof, resistance to dropping, anti - corrosion, anti - electromagnetic interference

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Longer Lifespan

LiFePO4 batteries are known for their longer lifespan. These batteries have efficient charging and discharging making these last for years of usage. On average, one battery can range up to 5000 charge cycles which are way more than other batteries.

No Maintenance Requirements

These batteries do not need any active maintenance like other batteries. For instance, in lead-acid batteries, we need to maintain acid levels inside the battery to extend the service life. Similarly, trickle charging is necessary to keep batteries good when not in use. The LiFePO4 has a very low 3% self-discharge rate per month which means no maintenance is necessary.

Lightweight

LiFePO4 batteries pack high power density meaning that these can be small and lightweight. Thus, these are a great option for handheld gadgets where you cannot add much weight to get ample portable power.

Safety

The highest quality cells are used in making the LiFePO4. Combining these batteries with effective battery management systems means that the chances of any mishap will significantly decrease. So, the chances of these exploding or catching fire will be significantly less.

High Discharge Rate

These batteries are famous for their high discharge rates, so starting engines on the coldest days wouldn't be an issue. Using some vehicles powered by LiFePO4 batteries, you will get amazing accelerating results due to high current discharge rates.

High Efficiency

The LiFePO4 can be used for 100% of its charging capability without causing any safety issues. Additionally, these fast chargers mean that these batteries will be quickly ready for all applications.

Comfortable With Extreme Temperatures

Comfortable with a wider temperature range, these batteries are good for all applications. Whether the weather is too hot or cold, these batteries do not lose their performance.

The Energy Density of the Lithium-ion Battery

Energy density is the power a battery contains, considering its size. It matters a lot because, with higher energy density, batteries can provide a stable amount of required power for a longer time without any issues. So, with high energy density, we can save a lot of space because smaller batteries with high density can provide more power. Lithium-ion batteries are famous for their high energy density ranging up to 270 wh/kg.

Comparison with other battery types.

On the other hand, the energy density of lead-acid batteries ranges up to 100 wh/kg, which makes lithium-ion batteries better. Compared with LiFePO4 batteries, their energy density can range up to 165 wh/kg, making lithium-ion batteries better than these.

Is energy density and power density the same?

Power density and energy density are often used together, and confusing among these is very easy because of their similarities. Both are a measure of the electric capabilities of a battery in comparison with its weight or size. However, these are not the same because, in power density, we measure the output watt of a battery in comparison with the weight. On the other hand, in energy density, we measure the watt hours of a battery compared to its weight.

Benefits of High Density

Having high energy density makes batteries much better with several benefits, including:

Smaller batteries can last longer.

High density allows us to pack more power in less space, giving smartphones and laptops more power.

Due to high energy density, batteries can make gadgets like smartwatches last up to days of usage.

However, with these benefits, there are some risks as well. Packing more power in a small pack means that if something goes wrong, all the energy will be released in less time. That's why the lithium-ion batteries explode and cause a fire with a tiny puncture. These batteries are highly volatile, considering their weight and compactness.

Conclusion

The selection of battery type depends on the applications. For instance, some applications find lithium-ion batteries perfect, while lead-acid batteries make a better choice in some cases. With so much market saturation and many options available, going for the right battery for a project may seem difficult. If the lithium-ion batteries fail to perform as required, the LiFePO4 batteries might make a great option.