2 Main Types of Battery - You Need to Know Everthing.
What is smartphone battery?
The battery is one of the most critical components in a smartphone for the power source that helps the device's functionality. A smartphone battery is an electrochemical cell that converts chemical energy into electrical energy through a process called the reduction-oxidation (redox) reaction.
What is smartphone battery mAh?
Battery capacity in smartphones is measured in milliampere-hours (mAh) which is a unit that represents the amount of electrical charge a battery can store and deliver over time. The mAh rating is directly related to the battery's energy storage capacity. the potential usage time or the battery life of the device.
The mAh rating of a smartphone battery is determined by two key factors: the battery's voltage and the number of ampere-hours (Ah) it can provide. The formula to calculate mAh is:
mAh = Ah × 1000
For example, if a battery has a capacity of 0.003 Ah (3000 mAh) and a nominal voltage of 3.7V, its total energy capacity would be:
Energy Capacity = mAh × Voltage
Energy Capacity = 3000 mAh × 3.7V = 11.1 Watt-hours (Wh)
The mAh rating is an essential specification for smartphone batteries. Because it directly impacts the device's battery life and usage time. A higher mAh value generally translates to a longer-lasting battery. All other factors (such as power optimization and usage patterns) remain constant.
However, the mAh rating alone does not provide a complete picture of a battery's performance. Other factors, such as the battery's chemistry, internal resistance, and the device's power consumption.
What is lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery?
Modern smartphones typically utilize lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery technology for several advantages over older battery types such as nickel-cadmium (NiCd) or nickel-metal hydride (NiMH). Li-ion batteries have a higher energy density. they can store more energy per unit of weight and volume for compact and lightweight devices like smartphones.
It's important to note that Li-ion batteries deliver many advantages. they also have some limitations and potential safety concerns. For example, they can be exposed to overheating, overcharging, or physical damage. These can lead to thermal runaway and potential fire or explosion hazards. To mitigate these risks, smartphone manufacturers incorporate various safety features such as battery management systems, thermal monitoring, and physical protection mechanisms.
How does lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery work?
Cathode (Positive Electrode): This is made of a lithium-based oxide material such as lithium cobalt oxide (LiCoO₂), lithium nickel manganese cobalt oxide (NMC), or lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO₄). The cathode is responsible for storing and releasing lithium ions during the charging and discharging processes.
Anode (Negative Electrode): the anode is made of graphite which can intercalate (insert) lithium ions between its layers during charging.
Electrolyte: This is a conductive solution. It allows the flow of lithium ions between the cathode and anode during charging and discharging. The electrolyte typically consists of lithium salts dissolved in an organic solvent.
Separator: A thin porous membrane that separates the cathode and anode for lithium ions to pass through.
During the charging process, lithium ions move from the cathode to the anode creating a potential difference (voltage) across the battery. When the battery is discharged (powering the smartphone). the lithium ions flow back from the anode to the cathode generating an electrical current. And it powers the device's components.
Main features of Lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery
High Energy Density: Li-ion batteries can store a significant amount of energy in a compact and lightweight package for portable electronics.
Low Self-Discharge Rate: Li-ion batteries have a relatively low self-discharge rate. they can retain their charge for an extended period when not in use.
No Memory Effect: Li-ion batteries do not suffer from the "memory effect," which can reduce the battery's capacity over time. if it is not fully discharged before recharging.
Long Lifespan: With proper care and usage. Li-ion batteries can last for several years and hundreds of charge-discharge cycles.
Fast Charging: Many modern smartphones support fast charging technologies to be recharged quickly. often to a significant percentage of its capacity in a short time.
What is Lithium-polymer(Li-Po) battery?
Lithium-polymer batteries are a variant of lithium-ion batteries. many of the same fundamental principles but with some key differences in their construction and design.
Main features of Lithium-polymer(Li-Po) battery
Flexible and Lightweight Design: Unlike traditional cylindrical or prismatic Li-ion batteries. Li-Po batteries use a polymer electrolyte instead of a liquid electrolyte. This is for a flexible, lightweight, and thin design. It can be easily molded into various shapes for more efficient use of space within the confined dimensions of a smartphone.
Higher Energy Density: Li-Po batteries generally have a higher energy density than Li-ion batteries of the same size and weight. This means they can store more energy and provide longer battery life for smartphones without increasing the overall battery size.
Improved Safety: The polymer electrolyte in Li-Po batteries is less prone to leakage compared to the liquid electrolyte in Li-ion batteries. This reduces the risk of potential hazards such as short-circuiting or fire in case of physical damage to the battery.
Longer Lifespan: Li-Po batteries have a longer lifespan and can withstand more charge-discharge cycles than Li-ion batteries for long-term use.
Lower Self-Discharge Rate: Li-Po batteries have a lower self-discharge rate than Li-ion batteries. they can retain their charge for a longer period when not in use. It is beneficial for standby time in smartphones.
Some drawbacks of Lithium-polymer(Li-Po)
Higher Manufacturing Costs: The production process for Li-Po batteries is generally more complex and expensive compared to Li-ion batteries. It can contribute to higher overall costs for smartphone manufacturers.
contribute to higher overall costs for smartphone manufacturers. 2. Sensitivity to High Temperatures: Li-Po batteries are more sensitive to high temperatures than Li-ion batteries. It can degrade their performance and lifespan if exposed to excessive heat for long periods.
Swelling Potential: Over time and with repeated charge-discharge cycles. Li-Po batteries can swell causing damage to the smartphone's internal components. if not properly contained or managed.