By Scott Minos, U.S. Department of Energy April 20, 2024Lithium-ion batteries are critical in powering contemporary devices, using lithium ions moving across electrodes to keep energy effectively. They are chosen for their long-lasting charge and minimal maintenance, though they must be managed thoroughly due to possible safety and environmental challenges.Lithium-ion batteries power the lives of countless individuals every day. From laptops and cell phones to hybrids and electric cars and trucks, this innovation is growing in popularity due to its light weight, high energy density, and capability to recharge.So how does it work?This animation walks you through the process.The BasicsA battery is comprised of an anode, cathode, separator, electrolyte, and 2 existing collectors (favorable and unfavorable). The anode and cathode store the lithium. The electrolyte brings favorably charged lithium ions from the anode to the cathode and vice versa through the separator. The motion of the lithium ions produces free electrons in the anode which produces a charge at the positive present collector. The electrical current then streams from the present collector through a device being powered (cellular phone, computer system, and so on) to the negative current collector. The separator blocks the circulation of electrons inside the battery.Charge/ DischargeWhile the battery is releasing and supplying an electrical present, the anode launches lithium ions to the cathode, generating a flow of electrons from one side to the other. When plugging in the device, the opposite occurs: Lithium ions are launched by the cathode and gotten by the anode.Energy Density vs. Power DensityThe 2 most typical ideas associated with batteries are energy density and power density. Energy density is determined in watt-hours per kilogram (Wh/kg) and is the amount of energy the battery can save with regard to its mass. Power density is measured in watts per kilogram (W/kg) and is the quantity of power that can be produced by the battery with respect to its mass. To draw a clearer photo, think of draining a swimming pool. Energy density resembles the size of the swimming pool, while power density is similar to draining pipes the swimming pool as rapidly as possible.The Department of Energys Vehicle Technologies Office (VTO) works on increasing the energy density of batteries, while lowering the cost, and preserving an appropriate power density. For additional information on VTOs battery-related tasks, please visit the Vehicle Technologies Office site.
