In today’s electrified world, technology has no boundaries, but it is evident that sustainable and safe solutions are needed to meet energy requirements. There is a notable demand for renewable energy resources rather than traditional ones because a greener future is a concern for the whole world.
To overcome this challenge of energy storage, lithium-ion batteries have gained a lot of attention and become a focal point of development. Now, lithium-ion batteries have become the talk of the town and are the prime energy storage technology worldwide.
Now we will see how lithium batteries revolutionize energy storage and change the scenario.
What Are Lithium Batteries?
A lithium-ion battery is a type of rechargeable battery that is used to store energy and was invented in 1970. These batteries are more efficient, higher in energy density, and have a longer cycle life than other energy storage batteries in the market.
The invention and commercialization of lithium batteries undoubtedly have a remarkable impact on technological advancements. Unfolding new horizons of a sustainable green future and increasing the world of possibilities in technology.
Storage Method of Lithium Batteries:
What makes lithium batteries stand out among others is their charge and discharge control.
Charging:
Lithium-ion moves from positive to negative electrode through the electrolyte, this is called charging. The system of charging can be controlled to store electrical energy.
Discharging:
The battery releases energy when it is in use. Ions move from anode to cathode generating an electric current.
Lithium-ion batteries have a high capacity for charging and discharging which means they can get charges between 0C to 60C and discharge between -20C to 60C making them a favourite energy storage product worldwide. Many companies are now providing the latest and updated versions of lithium batteries. Talking about Pakistan, Badar Energy is one of the best lithium battery companies in Pakistan.
Perks of Lithium-ion Batteries:
Here are some boons of lithium batteries that make them shine bright among all traditional battery energy storage systems.
High Energy Density:
Lithium batteries have a high energy density making them a top choice for energy storage. They are compact small packs that can store larger amounts of energy.
Long Life Cycle:
These batteries have a long life and can work for years if they are checked and maintained properly. These can perform hundreds of charge-discharge cycles without losing much energy.
Fast Charging:
An evident feature of lithium batteries is they are super fast in charging. They get charged very quickly.
Tolerant to Temprature:
These devices have an extreme tolerance for temperature. They can safely operate at 60C and are more efficient at 2 times lower temperatures.
Low Cost Maintenance:
Their maintenance cost is very low and they can be maintained easily.
Versatility:
These batteries are very adaptable. They come in every size and can be added to any device. From mobile phones to electric vehicles they can be used anywhere.
Utilization Across Industries:
Lithium batteries have many applications across industries and they are being used widely. The list of products and applications powered and supported by lithium batteries is expanding vigorously. Here we will have a sight at what are the common applications of lithium batteries in industries:
1- Electric Vehicles:
One of the most exceptional growths of lithium batteries can be seen in electric vehicles and EVs. All EVs like Nissan, Chevy, and Tesla are using lithium batteries as their main power source. This consumption is increasing the demand for lithium batteries and is gearing the production too.
2- Power Tools:
Drills, Saw, Sanders and many other power tools like these use lithium packs for their work. Compact packs and high energy density are the perfect power providers for these tools and enable them to be used in far areas for site use.
3- Smart Phones & Laptop Computers:
The usage of lithium batteries for power backup is an evident feature of smartphones and laptops. This advanced usage of lithium-ion batteries in these gadgets has transformed them into thinner, smart, and long-lasting devices. Lithium batteries are revolutionizing their technology.
4- Medical Devices:
Their compact size and larger capacity for energy storage of lithium batteries have made them a top choice to be used in medical devices. Defibrillators, Pacemakers, and many other devices comprising lithium batteries can function very well for years inside the human body. Many other devices also use lithium batteries to function as blood pressure monitors, pulse oximeters, etc.
6- Drones:
Amazingly lithium batteries are also supporting the energy storage for drones and advancing their technology by increasing the flight time of consumer and professional drones. Many advancements are also being made to enhance more features of drones depending upon lithium batteries. These batteries are aiding up-to-the-minute features of drone technology.
Challenges:
Despite being a preferred product all over the world lithium batteries also have some challenges to be considered wisely. Here are some of the common things to be judged regarding the usage of lithium batteries.
1- Resource Availability:
The lithium batteries rely on some limited and finite resources like nickel, cobalt, and lithium for their production. An increase in the production of these batteries has raised concerns about the availability of these resources. To overcome this challenge we must consider alternate resources.
2- ScalingUp Production:
One of the most concerning challenges is to scale up production to fulfil the demands of electric vehicles and renewable energy storage systems. The demand for lithium batteries is increasing day by day and hence it is becoming hard to balance the demand supply chain.
3- Cost:
The cost of raw materials to generate lithium batteries and other instalment costs are much higher than the other batteries. Also, the lifecycle costs including the operation, replacement, and maintenance can be a burden on pockets. However many companies are selling economical lithium batteries. Badar Energy is also providing the best lithium batteries at affordable prices in Pakistan.
4- Environmental Concerns:
While lithium batteries are considered environmentally friendly and a partner in a greener future they have their environmental concerns. The processing, extraction, and disposal of these batteries can have hostile impacts on the environment.
Takeaway:
The manipulation of lithium batteries in technology has revolutionized the landscape of technology and is playing its part in transforming the digital era effectively. However, considering the challenges and taking them seriously is a crucial step that must be taken to enjoy the boons and perks of lithium batteries.
This can be taken into account by conducting research and development, fostering collaboration among industries, and implementing sustainable practices.
