Nowadays, portability is considered to be a vital part of most of the electronics. This has given rise to the production of many new types of batteries. Some of them are good at one thing while others are good at other things. Some of them are very dangerous too. That is why there are rules for every type of battery for using, carrying, and transporting them.
Here we will discuss two of the most popular types of batteries in the world. This will be a comparison between the lithium-ion and lithium-polymer batteries according to their specifications and differences. In the end, we will also share information about transporting these batteries in planes.
Is a Lithium Polymer Battery a Lithium-ion Battery?
Due to the similarity in the names, many people are confused about this. No, these are not the same as the lithium-ion battery is a completely different thing from the lithium-polymer battery. There are many differences between these two types of batteries. These differences are discussed below.
Difference in Energy Density.
This is the greatest difference between these two batteries. Energy density is the charge that a battery can store according to its weight. The lithium-ion batteries are great in this because they have very good energy density that means that they can store huge amounts of power in them?
Whereas the lithium polymer batteries have a very lower energy density as compared to the lithium-ion batteries.
Difference in Cost.
Cost is another factor that sets these two different types of batteries apart. It is a very interesting fact that despite the lithium-ion batteries having a battery energy density, they are still cheaper. The lithium polymer batteries are usually 30% more expensive than lithium-ion batteries.
Difference in Weight and Structure.
In the field of structure of the batteries, the lithium polymer batteries are better. This is because they are very lightweight, and their enclosure is a little bit soft. Another factor is that these batteries can be constructed in a low-profile style. This increases their cost. On the other hand, the lithium-ion batteries are usually bigger and harder.
Difference in Security Features.
The security of a battery is a major concern for many producers and consumers. The lithium-ion batteries are prone to exploding in bad circumstances because the two different materials in these batteries can easily meet. The lithium polymer batteries are very safe as compared to lithium-ion batteries because their electrolyte is not as prone to leakage.
Difference in Lifespan.
The lifespan of lithium-ion is comparatively longer than that of the lithium polymer batteries. And there is no memory effect in the lithium-ion batteries as well. But the lithium-ion batteries lose their storage capacity with time.
Which is Better, Lithium-ion Battery or Lithium Polymer Battery?
This is another very popular regarding the lithium-ion and lithium polymer batteries. Both of them are very popular and this is what makes people get confused. But none of them is perfect in one way or another. Both of these batteries have their pros and cons. One way to select which one is better is that you know and evaluate the batteries according to your needs.
Here we will enlighten some points that will help you in deciding which battery is better for you.
What are you Going to Use the Battery For?
This is the most important thing that you need to consider when selecting a battery. If you are using the battery in a product that requires an adequate power delivery but does not care for the delivery time, then you might prefer the lithium polymer battery. This is because these batteries have a low storage capacity, but they can provide adequate power.
If it is needed to provide the power for a longer time, then you may need the lithium-ion batteries because they can hold more charge.
Are you Concerned About the Size of the Battery?
If the size of the batter is one of your major concerns, then you can select lithium polymer batteries because they are also available in low profile enclosures.
Is Cost a Concern for You?
When cost is a major concern, then it is good to select the lithium-ion battery because it is easily available at comparatively cheaper rates.
If you are replacing the battery from an old product, do you know which battery it used before?
If you are replacing a battery, then you should use the same battery that was used before.
Can You Take Lithium Polymer Batteries on a Plane?
Taking the batteries with you on a flight is another problem of major concern throughout the world. This is because of some of the past incidents where the batteries were the cause of an explosion or a fire on the place. The batteries are allowed to be taken with you on a plane only under special circumstances. Some of those circumstances are discussed here.
The Batteries in the Electronics.
If you are carrying any type of electronic item that has a battery. Then you must keep this device with you in your hand-carry storage. Another thing to notice is that the battery must not be more than 100-watt hour. Otherwise, that device will not be allowed to be taken on a flight.
Separate Batteries.
In case you are keeping spare batteries with you, then you have to follow some rules as well. The batteries cannot be any bigger than 160-watt hours. You also have to add these batteries with you on the flight.
Can the Batteries Be Checked in with Your Luggage?
No authorities allow you to keep the batteries in your luggage because there is a chance of having an explosion or a fire due to the batteries.
Rules for carrying the batteries in the plane.
- In any case, the battery will be in your hand carry.
- The spare batteries must be protected at their terminals so that they can not cause any sparks.
- You must use separate plastic containers, an efficient amount of electrical tape, or a professional battery barring case to carry batteries with you on a plane
Conclusion
We hope that this was more than enough to make any of your confusion clear regarding the two most popular types of rechargeable batteries. By reviewing the differences and specifications of the batteries, you can make your buying decision efficiently.
