Why are lithium polymer batteries so popular?

Polymer usually refers to certain types of lithium-based batteries, which are usually known as pouch or prismatic batteries. Lithium polymer is different from other battery systems of the type of electrolyte used. The original polymer design dates back to the 1970s and used solid (dry) polymer electrolytes similar to plastic films. The insulator allows the exchange of ions (charged atoms) and replaces the traditional porous separator impregnated with electrolyte. Solid polymers have poor conductivity at room temperature, and batteries must be heated to 60°C (140°F) or higher to allow current to flow. Large-scale polymer batteries for stationary use were installed to be heated, but these have disappeared. The much-anticipated hype promised at the beginning of the 21st century for true plastic batteries did not materialize because electrical conductivity was not available at ambient temperatures. In order to make modern lithium polymer batteries conduct electricity at room temperature, gel electrolytes are added. Most lithium-ion polymer batteries currently contain microporous separators and some moisture. Lithium polymer can be built on many systems, such as Li-cobalt, NMC, Li-phosphate and Li-manganese, and is not considered a magical battery chemistry. Most lithium polymer packaging is cobalt-based, and other active materials can also be added. What is the difference between general lithium ion and lithium ion polymer added with gel electrolyte? As far as users are concerned, lithium polymer is basically the same as lithium ion. Both use the same cathode and anode materials and contain similar amounts of electrolyte. The magic of lithium polymer is that the microporous electrolyte replaces the traditional porous diaphragm. Lithium polymer supplies a slightly higher specific energy and can be made thinner than traditional lithium ion, but it is said that the manufacturing cost is higher than that of a cylindrical design. For discussion purposes, pouch batteries are generally identified as Li-polymers. Lithium polymer batteries also use flexible foil-like casings, similar to food packaging. Although standard lithium batteries require a rigid casing to press the electrodes together, lithium polymers use laminates that do not compress. Compared with the traditional hard shell, the aluminum foil shell can reduce the weight by more than 20%. Thin film technology liberates the design, because the battery can be made into any shape and neatly fit into fashionable mobile phones and tablets. Lithium polymer can also be made very thin, similar to the thickness of a credit card. Light weight and high specific power make lithium polymer the first choice for amateurs. The charging and discharging characteristics of lithium polymer are the same as other lithium-ion systems, and no special charger is required. The safety issue is similar, it is all about protecting the circuit. Attention: The accumulation of air volume during the charging process causes some prismatic and pouch-shaped batteries to swell, so device manufacturers have to consider expansion. Disclaimer: Some pictures and content of articles published on this site are from the Internet. If there is any infringement, please contact to delete. Previous: What are the advantages of lithium batteries?