LifePO4 batteries
Figured I'd repost this, start over and maybe the same 4 or so guys that hijacked it would be tired out and let others that ARE using LiFePO4 get a word in and discuss it. I see a lot of folks are ...
Forum Discussion
MEXICOWANDERER wrote:
I do have a question for owners of lithium
You can not simply throw the term "lithium" around when taking about batteries ! There are 2 basic chemistries: LiCoO2 and LiFePO4. There are several god articles on Wikipedia and many related ones.
LiCoO2 batteries are the most popular and have had the most amount of research and development done in the past 10+ years. The chemistry of the anode, cathode and electrolyte has been changing and the exact chemical make up bu manufacturer is a closely guarded secret. LiCoO2 batteries have the highest energy density and are the one that will explode if over charged/discharged.
LiFePO4 batteries are considered "safer" because they will not catch fire when over charged/discharged. Again, many chemical "variations on a theme". They have a lower output voltage (3.2 vs 3.7) any lower energy density.
LiPo (Po = polymer i.e. plastic) cells use the same/similar chemistry to LiCoO2, except the electrolyte is a gel and they can be manufactured into different shapes including a flexible "bag". This makes them very lightweight but more likely to suffer from physical damage.
