The contribution lithium-iron phosphate batteries: This is how LFP batteries by Felix Baumann work first appeared on Basic Thinking. You always stay up to date with our newsletter.
LFP batteries are a special variant of the lithium-ion batteries. Due to their properties, they are used in more and more electric cars. However, they do not separate themselves for all vehicle classes. We’ll tell you how lithium iron phosphate batteries work.
An LFP battery is a special variant of the lithium-ion battery. The abbreviation stands for lithium iron phosphate accumulators. This is the material from which the cathode consists of this battery type. The basic structure is similar to other lithium-ion batteries. A cell consists of anode, cathode and electrolytes in between.
How do LFP batteries work?
When charging, lithium ions hike from the cathode through the electrolytes to the anode, where they store themselves between graphic lights. Electrons flow over the outer circuit to the anode.
The process turns around when unloading. The electrons then supply an electric motor with electricity, for example. The used cathode material has a different effect on energy density, security, lifespan and costs.
The differences are in detail, because: LFP cathodes have a different structure than NMC cathodes (Nickel-Mangan cobalt). While NMC materials are built-like, the structure of LFP is more reminiscent of a porous sponge.
As a result, fewer lithium ions fit, which leads to a lower energy density. This is usually between 130 and 160 watt hours per kilogram, while NMC cells reach up to 250 watt hours per kilogram.
The advantage of lithium iron phosphate batteries
What makes LFP batteries are not only their capacity, but also their robustness. They can withstand more charging cycles, lose slow capacity and are significantly less inflammatory because the materials are more chemically stable.
An additional plus: Since neither nickel nor cobalt are included, some of the critical raw material problems that other cell types have. For a long time, this LFP battery technology was primarily found in cheaper electric cars, for example from Chinese manufacturers.
The reason: larger, heavier batteries were necessary for comparable ranges. But cell architectures, such as the BYD’s compact “Blade Battery”, have largely compensated for this disadvantage. In the meantime, Tesla, VW, BMW and Renault also rely on LFP batteries.
The reason: about 20 percent lower costs, high cycle strength and sufficient power for vehicles with a moderate range. With a view to rising raw material prices and the focus on sustainability, the technology is becoming increasingly important.
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The contribution lithium-iron phosphate batteries: This is how LFP batteries by Felix Baumann work first appeared on Basic Thinking. Follow us too Google News and Flipboard.
As a Tech Industry expert, I believe that Lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries are a highly promising technology for the future of energy storage. These batteries are known for their high energy density, long cycle life, and improved safety features compared to other types of lithium-ion batteries.
LFP batteries work by using lithium iron phosphate as the cathode material, which provides a stable structure that reduces the risk of thermal runaway and other safety hazards. The anode is typically made of graphite, and the electrolyte is a lithium salt in a solvent.
When the battery is charged, lithium ions are extracted from the cathode and move through the electrolyte to the anode, where they are stored. During discharge, the process is reversed, and the lithium ions move back to the cathode, releasing energy in the process.
Overall, LFP batteries offer a reliable and efficient energy storage solution for a wide range of applications, from consumer electronics to electric vehicles and renewable energy systems. With ongoing advancements in battery technology, LFP batteries are likely to play a significant role in shaping the future of the tech industry.
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