Li-Ion and LiPo batteries have essentially the same chemical make-up and are cared for in the same way; the differences are in how the cells are packaged and the type of electrolyte that is used.
Li-Ion Battery
Li-Ion batteries use an organic liquid solvent as the electrolyte. This electrolyte is responsible for the ion exchange between the electrodes (anode and cathode) just like any type of battery. Li-Ion batteries are usually encased in a hard metal can (again like a more conventional battery) adding weight and not allowing many different options as far as shape and size.
Li Polymer Battery
A true LiPo battery doesnĄ¯t use a liquid electrolyte but instead uses a dry electrolyte polymer (gelled electrolyte) that resembles a thin plastic film. This film is sandwiched (actually laminated) between the anode and cathode of the battery allowing for ion exchange ¨C thus the name lithium polymer. This method allows for a very thin and wide range of shapes and sizes of cells.
Operating principles of rechargeable lithium batteries: |
