What is the Difference Between Lithium Ion and Lithium Polymer?

Lithium-ion (Li-ion) and lithium-polymer (Li-poly) batteries are both types of rechargeable batteries used in various electronic devices. They have some differences in terms of energy density, safety, and flexibility. Here are the main differences between the two:

1. Energy Density: Lithium-ion batteries have a higher energy density, typically ranging from 100 to 250 Wh/kg, while lithium-polymer batteries have a lower energy density, between 130 to 200 Wh/kg.
2. Cost: Lithium-ion batteries are generally cheaper than lithium-polymer batteries. The latter is almost double the cost of the former.
3. Size and Shape: Lithium-ion batteries are available in various sizes and shapes, making them suitable for smaller devices. Lithium-polymer batteries, on the other hand, are more rigid and lightweight, but they come in larger sizes and have limited flexibility.
4. Safety: Lithium-ion batteries are considered more unstable and have a higher chance of exploding when overcharged, while lithium-polymer batteries are considered safer and do not tend to explode when not handled with care.
5. Memory Effect: Lithium-ion batteries, unlike lithium-polymer batteries, do not have a memory effect, which means they do not become harder to charge over time.
6. Charging Duration: Lithium-ion batteries take longer to charge compared to lithium-polymer batteries, which have a shorter charging time.
7. Weight: Lithium-polymer batteries are lighter in weight compared to lithium-ion batteries, which are heavier.

In summary, lithium-ion batteries offer higher energy density and are more versatile in terms of size and shape, making them suitable for smaller devices. However, they have a higher chance of exploding when overcharged and take longer to charge. Lithium-polymer batteries provide better safety and have a lighter weight but have a lower energy density and are more rigid in shape and size.

Comparative Table: Lithium Ion vs Lithium Polymer

Here is a table comparing the differences between lithium-ion and lithium-polymer batteries:

Lithium-ion batteries have a higher energy density and are cheaper than lithium-polymer batteries, but they can explode if not handled carefully and have a shorter life span. On the other hand, lithium-polymer batteries are more expensive, have a lower energy density, and are safer than lithium-ion batteries.