Chemistry

LiPo

• electrolyte resembles a plastic-like film, which doesn’t conduct electricity but still allows ions exchange

• are typically included in pouch and prismatic cells

• Both LiPo and Li-io use identical cathode/anode material and similar amount of electrolyte

• modern LiPo batteries have become conductive at room temp

• can be made very thin, so ideal for phones and other consumer electronics

• more resistant to overcharge; less chance for electrolyte leakage.

• can be made into more lower profile, flexible, and more robust designs.

• Lighter than li-ion (do not require a protective case)

• solid polymer has poor conductivity at room temperature, needs to be heated to at least 60°C (140°F) to enable current flow (dated)

• LiPo in foil may be less durable than Li-ion in cylindrical package

• Lower energy density and cycle count than lithium-ion.

• Expensive to manufacture.

• Higher cost-to-energy ratio than lithium-ion

Li-ion

• Nominal voltage of 3.7V

• Consist of two positive and negative electrodes separated by a liquid chemical electrolyte (limited to a rectangular shape)

• low maintenance, no memory or scheduled cycling required to prolong its life

• Most economic in terms of cost-energy ratio is the cylindrical 18650 (diameter-18mm, height-65mm), but if a slimmer pack is needed, choose the prismatic type which has higher cost

• Longest battery life in comparison to other types

• High energy density

• Relatively low self-discharge

• lack the memory effect (Memory effect - Wikipedia)

• fragile, requires a protection circuit (Protection Circuits - Circuit Basics, NOTE: read up on this after)

• aging is a concern, may serve 2-3 years or 5 years depending on the application, however storage in colder temperatures will slow the aging (15°C (59°F)), with a partial charge of 40% (longer than other batteries though)