What is the safest type of lithium battery?

Lithium-ion battery technology has popped in and out of the news in recent years, mostly for safety concerns. But engineers who understand how lithium batteries work know that it’s among the best and safest commercial options for energy storage needs. So despite exploding cellphones, smoldering plane engines and hover boards that are too hot to ride, lithium-ion batteries remain the go-to energy storage technology worldwide and account for 83 percent of newly announced energy storage projects in 2016, according to a new report by Navigant Research.

Safety is a full-fledged design feature with lithium-ion batteries, and for good reason. As we’ve all seen, the chemistry and energy density that allows lithium-ion batteries to work so well also makes them flammable, so when the batteries malfunction they often make a spectacular and dangerous mess.

RELiON prides itself on offering lithium-ion batteries designed around safety and longevity. Although the lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries we sell can’t currently be manufactured small enough for use in consumer electronics, the LiFePO4 technology is by far the safest chemistry available.

All RELiON batteries also come with either a Power Control Module (PCM) or Battery Management System (BMS) that have many extra safety features including; over-current, over-voltage, under-voltage, and over-temperature protection, and the cells come in an explosion-proof stainless steel casing.

But when it comes to smaller lithium batteries that power common consumer products, we admit the industry as a whole still has room to improve. And researchers know this, which means many groups around the world are finding new and inventive ways to beef up battery safety while improving battery efficiency.

Before we dive into three research projects that are improving battery safety, let’s refresh ourselves on how lithium battery malfunctions happen in the first place.

How can lithium batteries catch on fire or explode?

Lithium-ion batteries explode when the battery’s full charge is released instantly, or when the liquid chemicals mix with foreign contaminants and ignite. This typically happens in three ways: physical damage, overcharging, or electrolyte breakdown.

For example, if the internal separator or charging circuitry is damaged or malfunctions, then there are no safety barriers to keep the electrolytes from merging and causing an explosive chemical reaction, which then ruptures the battery packaging, combines the chemical slurry with oxygen, and instantly ignites all of the components.

There are a few other ways lithium batteries can explode or catch on fire, but thermal runaway scenarios like these are the most common. Common is a relative term, because lithium-ion batteries power most rechargeable products on the market, and it’s pretty rare for large-scale recalls or safety scares to happen.

Why LiFePO4 is Safe

As for the batteries RELiON uses, our lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) chemistry is inherently safe, so you don’t have to worry about a battery meltdown.

Here’s why.

LiFePO4 batteries have a chemical and mechanical structure that does not overheat to unsafe levels, unlike batteries made with a cobalt-oxide cathode or manganese-oxide cathode.

This is because the charged and uncharged states of LiFePO4 are physically similar and highly robust, which lets the ions remain stable during the oxygen flux that happens alongside charge cycles or possible malfunctions. Overall, the iron phosphate-oxide bond is stronger than the cobalt-oxide bond, so when the battery is overcharged or subject to physical damage then the phosphate-oxide bond remains structurally stable; whereas in other lithium chemistries the bonds begin breaking down and releasing excessive heat, which eventually leads to thermal runaway.

LiFePO4 works great for our customers' needs. But the chemistry doesn’t work as efficiently in batteries used in small electronics. The industry needs a different solution. And we might find it if the following three research projects pan out.

Self-healing lithium battery

Self-healing membranes have been all the rage for wearable technology, and now the research is being adapted for batteries. A self-healing lithium-ion battery has unique chemical structures that prevent lithium compounds from leaking out after the device has been damaged. Plus the batteries maintain their electrochemical functionality after healing. This should halt any messy explosions or fires upon the battery receiving physical damage and make batteries more resilient.

Although the self-healing battery concept still needs further research and refinement, a partnership between Samsung and researchers at Fudan University in Shanghai has produced among the most promising self-healing battery designs.

Their batteries are composed of carbon nanotubes that are loaded with lithium nanoparticles and fixed onto a self-healing polymer, according to an article in Chemistry World.

Within the self-healing polymer is a cellulose-based gel that acts as an electrolyte and separation membrane between the electrodes. This lets the battery self-repair if it’s damaged by simply pressing the two maimed sections together for a few seconds.

Solid-state Lithium-ion Battery

Lithium-ion batteries aren’t alone in the occasional safety snafu (without proper battery maintenance, lead-acid batteries can ignite too), but the results of a chemical breakdown in non-LiFePO4 batteries are often dramatic because the lithium slurry has highly combustible electrolytes. The simplest solution to this quandary is removing the liquid electrolyte from the equation. No flammable electrolytes, then no fire or explosions. And that’s exactly the approach some researchers are taking.

Several different research groups are experimenting with solid-state lithium batteries. By eliminating the liquid component and replacing it with a solid-state conductor, the resulting batteries could be more resilient and last longer. Plus the solid polymer opens the door to combining lithium batteries with thin-film fabrication to power miniaturized products and applications.

Progress in this innovation is slow-moving because most solids that also conduct ions don’t do so very effectively at room temperatures. Theoretically, chemists and engineers could create a solid electrolyte from any element, but the reality is that only a few options have shown promise. Of those, oxides and sulfides produce the best results.

Because of how volatile and toxic sulfides could be under the wrong circumstances, oxides are the preferred element to work with. And one particular oxide, a garnet-type compound known as cubic Li7La3Zr2O12 or c-LLZO, draws most of the attention because combines several useful qualities, according to an article in Chemical & Engineering News.

The c-LLZO is thermally and chemically stable. It doesn’t need a special processing environment, and it won’t emit any toxic byproducts like sulfur can. Plus the c-LLZO has a wider voltage range than common liquid electrolytes, which means the compound should be suitable for high-voltage batteries.

The downside so far from c-LLZO is the material only has a room temperature conductivity of 1-2 mS/cm, which is low compared to some electrolyte slurries but much greater than other oxides.

The Chemical & Engineering report says researchers are working to boost the conductivity value to make the product more market feasible.

Improved Charging Control Technology

When it comes to lithium-ion car batteries, safety is the most important feature — with an average distance-per charge being a close second. Tesla and Nissan are the two heavyweights in the electric car market, but Toyota says its researchers have solved the company’s safety concerns and they’re now moving forward with an all-electric Prius. The solution to their battery safety woes is improved control technology that accurately measures the temperature and operating condition of every cell in its new battery pack.

The control system can continuously measures how the battery cells are performing, and immediately acts on even slight signs of a potential short-circuit in individual cells. If the cells begin short circuiting or overheating, then the control system will either prevent the malfunction from spreading or shut down the entire battery.

Using this method makes the control system offer proactive protection instead of reactive protection, which can prevent any malfunctions from getting out of control.

These technologies are still a ways off from being market viable, and the entire RELiON Battery team is dedicated to providing our customers with the highest quality and safest lithium products currently available. Please get in touch with us to learn about how we can help your team achieve its energy needs safely and efficiently.

LiFePO4 batteries are taking “charge” of the battery world. But what exactly does “LiFePO4” mean? What makes these batteries better than other types?

Read on for the answer to these questions and more.

What are LiFePO4 Batteries?

LiFePO4 batteries are a type of lithium battery built from lithium iron phosphate. Other batteries in the lithium category include:

• Lithium Cobalt Oxide (LiCoO22)
• Lithium Nickel Manganese Cobalt Oxide (LiNiMnCoO2)
• Lithium Titanate (LTO)
• Lithium Manganese Oxide (LiMn2O4)
• Lithium Nickel Cobalt Aluminum Oxide (LiNiCoAlO2)

Chemistry & Battery Innovation

You might remember some of these elements from chemistry class. That’s where you spent hours memorizing the periodic table (or, staring at it on the teacher’s wall). That’s where you performed experiments (or, stared at your crush while pretending to pay attention to the experiments).

Of course, every now and then a student adores experiments and ends up becoming a chemist. And it was chemists who discovered the best lithium combinations for batteries.

Long story short, that’s how the LiFePO4 battery was born. (In 1996, by the University of Texas, to be exact). LiFePO4 is now known as the safest, most stable and most reliable lithium battery.  

A Brief History of the LiFePO4 Battery

The LiFePO4 battery began with John B. Goodenough and Arumugam Manthiram. They were the first to discover the materials employed in lithium-ion batteries. Anode materials are not very suitable for use in lithium-ion batteries. This is because they’re prone to early short-circuiting.

Scientists discovered that cathode materials are better alternatives for lithium-ion batteries. And this is very clear in the LiFePO4 battery variants. Fast-forward, increasing stability, conductivity – improving all sorts of things, and poof! LiFePO4 batteries are born.

Today, there are rechargeable LiFePO4 batteries everywhere. These batteries have many useful applications – they’re used in boats, solar systems, vehicles and more.

LiFePO4 batteries are cobalt-free, and cost less than most of its alternatives (over time). It’s not toxic and it lasts longer. But we’ll get to that more soon. The future holds very bright prospects for the LiFePO4 battery.

But what makes the LiFePO4 battery better?

LiFePO4 vs. Lithium Ion Batteries

Now that we know what LiFePO4 batteries are, let’s discuss what makes LiFePO4 better than lithium ion and other lithium batteries.

The LiFePO4 battery isn’t great for wearable devices like watches. Because they have a lower energy density compared to other lithium-ion batteries. That said, for things like solar energy systems, RVs, golf carts, bass boats, and electric motorcycles, it’s the best by far. Why?

Well, for one, the cycle life of a LiFePO4 battery is over 4x that of other lithium ion batteries.

It’s also the safest lithium battery type on the market, safer than lithiom ion and other battery types.

And last but not least, LiFePO4 batteries can not only reach 3,000-5,000 cycles or more… They can reach 100% depth of discharge (DOD). Why does that matter? Because that means, with LiFePO4 (unlike other batteries) you don’t have to worry about over discharging your battery.

Also, you can use it for a longer period of time as a result. In fact, you can use a quality LiFePO4 battery for many years longer than other battery types. It’s rated to last about 5,000 cycles.

That’s roughly 10 years. So the average cost over time is much better. That’s how LiFePO4 batteries stack up vs lithium ion.

Here’s why LiFePO4 batteries are better than not just lithium ion, but other battery types in general:

Safe, Stable Chemistry

Lithium battery safety is important. The newsworthy “exploding” lithium-ion laptop batteries have made that clear. One of the most important advantages LiFePO4 has over other battery types is safety. LiFePO4 is the safest lithium battery type. It’s the safest of any type, actually.

Overall, LifePO4 batteries have the safest lithium chemistry. Why? Because lithium iron phosphate has better thermal and structural stability. This is something lead acid and most other battery types don’t have at the level LiFePO4 does. LiFePO4 is incombustible. It can withstand high temperatures without decomposing. It’s not prone to thermal runaway, and will keep cool at room temperature. 

If you subject a LiFePO4 battery to harsh temperatures or hazardous events (like short circuiting or a crash) it won’t start a fire or explode. For those who use deep cycle LiFePO4 batteries every day in an RV, bass boat, scooter, or liftgate, this fact is comforting.

Environmental Safety

LiFePO4 batteries are already a boon to our planet because they’re rechargeable. But their eco-friendliness doesn’t stop there. Unlike lead acid and nickel oxide lithium batteries, they are non-toxic and won’t leak.

You can recycle them as well. But you won’t need to do that often, since they last 5000 cycles. That means you can recharge them (at least) 5,000 times. In comparison, lead acid batteries last only 300-400 cycles. 

Excellent Efficiency and Performance

You want a safe, non-toxic battery. But you also want a battery that’s going to perform well. These stats prove that LiFePO4 delivers all that and more:

• Charge efficiency: a LiFePO4 battery will reach full charge in 2 hours or less. 
• Self-discharge rate when not in use: Only 2% per month. (Compared to 30% for lead acid batteries).
• Runtime is higher than lead acid batteries/other lithium batteries.
• Consistent power: same amount of amperage even when below 50% battery life.
• No maintenance needed.

Small and Lightweight

Many factors weigh in to make LiFePO4 batteries better. Speaking of weighing–they are total lightweights. In fact, they’re almost 50% lighter than lithium manganese oxide batteries. They weigh up to 70% lighter than lead acid batteries.

When you use your LiFePO4 battery in a vehicle, this translates to less gas usage, and more maneuverability. They are also compact, freeing up space on your scooter, boat, RV, or industrial application. 

LiFePO4 Batteries vs. Non-Lithium Batteries

When it comes to LiFePO4 vs lithium ion, LiFePO4 is the clear winner. But how do LiFePO4 batteries compare to other rechargeable batteries on the market today? 

Lead Acid Batteries

Lead acid batteries may be a bargain at first, but they’ll end up costing you more in the long run. That’s because they need constant maintenance, and you must replace them more often. A LiFePO4 battery will last 2-4x longer, with zero upkeep needed. 

Gel Batteries

Like LiFePO4 batteries, gel batteries don’t need frequent recharging. They also won’t lose charge while stored. Where do gel and LiFePO4 differ? A big factor is the charging process. Gel batteries charge at a snail’s pace. Also, you must disconnect them when 100% charged to avoid ruining them. 

AGM Batteries

AGM batteries will do plenty of damage to your wallet, and are at high risk for becoming damaged themselves if you drain them past 50% battery capacity. Maintaining them can be difficult as well. LiFePO4 Ionic lithium batteries can be discharged completely with no risk of damage.

A LiFePO4 Battery for Every Application

LiFePO4 technology has proven beneficial for a wide variety of applications. Here’s a few of them:

• Fishing boats and kayaks: Less charging time and longer runtime means more time out on the water. Less weight allows for easy maneuvering and a speed boost during that high-stakes fishing competition. 
• Mopeds and mobility scooters: No dead weight to slow you down. Charge to less than full capacity for impromptu trips without damaging your battery. 
• Solar setups: Haul lightweight LiFePO4 batteries wherever life takes you (even if it’s up a mountain and far from the grid) and harness the power of the sun. 
• Commercial use: These batteries are the safest, toughest lithium batteries out there. So they’re great for industrial applications like floor machines, liftgates, and more. 
• Much more: In addition, lithium iron phosphate batteries power many other things. For example – flashlights, electronic cigarettes, radio equipment, emergency lighting and much more.

LiFePO4 batteries are ideal for everyday use, backup power, and more! They also have incredible advantages for RVs and travel trailers. Learn more here.

Learn about the different types of lithium batteries and how they’re used here:

LiFePO4 Quick Answers

Is LiFePO4 the same as lithium ion?

Not at all! The LiFePO4 battery has a cycle life of over 4x that of lithium ion polymer batteries.

Are LiFePO4 batteries good?

Well, for starters, LiFePO4 batteries are incredibly efficient compared to traditional batteries. Not only that, they’re super-light and you can use most of your battery’s capacity without any problems. (You can only use roughly 50% with lead acid batteries. After that, the battery gets damaged.) So overall, yes, very much so – LiFePO4 batteries are great.

Can LiFePO4 catch fire?

LiFePO4 batteries are the safest of the lithium batteries, because they will not catch fire, and won’t even overheat. Even if you puncture the battery it will not catch fire. This is a massive upgrade over other lithium batteries, which can overheat and catch fire.

Is LiFePO4 better than lithium ion?

The LiFePO4 battery has the edge over lithium ion, both in terms of cycle life (it lasts 4-5x longer), and safety. This is a key advantage because lithium ion batteries can overheat and even catch fire, while LiFePO4 does not.

Why is LiFePO4 so expensive?

LiFePO4 batteries are usually more expensive on the front end, but cheaper long term because they last so long. They cost more up front because the materials used to build them are more expensive. But people still choose them over other batteries. Why?

Because LiFePO4 has many advantages over other batteries. For example, they’re much lighter than lead acid and many other battery types. They’re also much safer, they last longer, and require no maintenence.

Is LiFePO4 a lipo?

No. Lifepo4 has a number of distinct advantages over Lipo, and while both are lithium chemistries, they are not the same.

What can I use LiFePO4 Batteries for?

You can use LiFePO4 batteries for the same things you’d use lead acid, AGM or other traditional batteries for. For example, you can use them to power bass boats and other marine toys. Or RVs. Or solar setups, mobility scooters, and much more.

Is LiFePO4 more dangerous than AGM or lead acid?

Nope. It’s actually quite a bit safer. And for a number of reasons, including the fact that LiFePO4 batteries don’t leak toxic fumes. And they don’t spill sulfuric acid like many other batteries (like lead acid.) And like we mentioned earlier, they don’t overheat or catch fire.

Can I leave my LiFePO4 battery on the charger?

If your LiFePO4 batteries have a battery management system, it will prevent your battery from overcharging. Our Ionic batteries all have built-in battery management systems.

What is the life expectancy of LiFePO4 batteries?

Life expectancy is one of the biggest perks, if not the biggest perk of LiFePO4. Our lithium batteries are rated to last around 5,000 cycles. That is, 10 years or so (and often more), depending on usage of course.

Even after those 5,000 cycles, our LiFePO4 batteries can still function at 70% capacity. And better still, you can discharge past 80% without a single issue. (Lead acid batteries tend to gas out when discharged past 50%.)