Lithium ternary batteries: are they safe?

Lithium-ion batteries have become a ubiquitous energy source in modern technology. These rechargeable batteries can be found in electronic devices, electric vehicles, and renewable energy systems. However, the safety of these batteries is a concern due to the risk of overheating, catching fire, or exploding. Lithium iron phosphate (LFP) and ternary lithium batteries are two popular types of lithium-ion batteries, but they differ in terms of safety.

The Importance of Battery Management System (BMS)

A Battery Management System (BMS) is essential for maintaining the health and safety of battery packs. It prevents overcharging and over-discharging, ensuring uniform state of charge across individual cells. Additionally, BMS calculates remaining range, contributing to safe battery operation.

What are Ternary Lithium Batteries?

Ternary lithium batteries, a type of lithium-ion battery, feature a cathode composed of nickel, cobalt, and manganese oxides. Adjusting the ratios of these metals allows for various compound materials. Higher nickel content may compromise battery performance due to decreased lithium disintercalation and increased instability of Ni3+ ions

The name ‘ternary lithium battery‘ originates from its cathode materials, akin to LiFePO4 batteries, with three key metals—nickel (Ni), cobalt (Co), and manganese (Mn)—whose ratios can be tailored to specific requirements, resulting in various compound materials like 1:1:1, 5:2:3, and 8:1:1.

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Why we use Ni, Co and Mn these three kinds of metal in ternary lithium battery?

Nickel, cobalt, and manganese are chosen for ternary lithium batteries due to their unique properties. Nickel’s chemical activity makes it difficult to oxidize, resulting in higher energy density. Cobalt enhances material stability and conductivity, while manganese improves safety. By combining these metals, ternary lithium batteries achieve superior performance.

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Safety Concerns with Ternary Lithium Batteries

Ternary lithium batteries, common in high-powered applications like electric vehicles, pose fire risks due to lower thermal runaway temperatures compared to alternatives like LFP batteries.

Lithium Iron Phosphate Batteries

Lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4 or LFP) batteries are known for their stability and safety compared to ternary lithium batteries. The P-O chemical bond in lithium iron phosphate is highly stable, minimizing the risk of violent combustion even under extreme conditions.

Safety Advantages of Lithium Iron Phosphate Batteries

LFP batteries offer several safety advantages over ternary lithium batteries. They are less prone to overheating and catching fire, making them a safer choice for a wide range of applications. LFP batteries have a higher thermal runaway temperature, which means they can withstand higher temperatures without catching fire. They are also more resistant to physical damage due to the steel encapsulation of the cells, making them more durable than ternary lithium batteries. Lastly, LFP batteries have a longer lifespan and are more stable, leading to fewer capacity losses with each charge/discharge cycle.

Applications for Lithium Iron Phosphate Batteries

Due to their safety and durability, LFP batteries are increasingly being used in applications that require a high level of safety, such as electric vehicles, cordless tools, and medical devices. LFP batteries are less likely to overheat or be damaged by physical contact, making them a more reliable choice in high-drain applications.

Conclusion

In summary, while both LFP and ternary lithium batteries are popular types of lithium-ion batteries, they differ in terms of safety. Ternary lithium batteries have a higher risk of overheating and catching fire, while LFP batteries offer greater safety, durability, and longevity. As the demand for safer and more reliable batteries increases, the use of LFP batteries is expected to grow across various industries.