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[Complete guidance] How long do lithium batteries last?
, From Liu Ling, 16 min reading time
Table of contents
Part 1. What are lithium-ion batteries?
Part 2. How long do lithium-ion batteries last?
Part 3. Factors influencing the service life of lithium-ion batteries
3.1 During storage
3.2 During cycle operation
Part 4. Methods for extending the life of lithium-ion batteries Part 5. Frequently asked questions about Li-ion batteries
Part 6. Is it worth investing in lithium-ion batteries?
Part 1. What are lithium-ion batteries?
Lithium-ion batteries, including Lithium iron phosphate batteries (LiFePO4), are rechargeable and use lithium-ion as the main component of their electrolyte. LiFePO4 batteries offer several advantages over other battery types, such as longer service life, higher efficiency and energy density, lower maintenance requirements, greater safety, and environmental friendliness. These properties make them ideal for off-grid power systems, high-power applications, and mobility solutions.
Li-ion batteries are often used as starting batteries in vehicles due to their high energy density and low weight. They are well suited for this application because they can deliver a short, high-current pulse to start the engine. Li-ion batteries used as starting batteries generally have a lower capacity and should not be over-discharged to avoid damage.
LiFePO4 batteries, on the other hand, are excellent deep-discharge batteries. They can tolerate frequent deep discharges, making them ideal for renewable energy storage and other deep-cycle applications. With a longer cycle life than Li-ion batteries, LiFePO4 batteries can deliver high-performance applications for longer periods. Learn more about the differences between the two battery types at Marine deep cycle and starting battery.
Part 2. How long do lithium-ion batteries last?
A standard lithium-ion battery lasts an average of two to three years, depending on usage. However, with proper maintenance and following the manufacturer's instructions, this lifespan can be extended to up to five years. Li-ion batteries are temperature sensitive, and high temperatures can significantly shorten their lifespan. Therefore, it's important to store your lithium-ion battery in a cool, dry place to avoid heat exposure and prolong its lifespan.
LiFePO4 batteries are a more advanced and sustainable type of lithium-ion battery that is gaining increasing popularity in the industry. These batteries have a longer lifespan than conventional Li-ion batteries and can last up to 10 years or more.In addition, LiFePO4 batteries are extremely stable and safe, providing a more reliable and sustainable solution for off-grid power and mobility applications.
A key advantage of LiFePO4 batteries is their ability to handle more charge and discharge cycles. While conventional Li-ion batteries can withstand up to 500-1000 cycles, LiFePO4 batteries can withstand up to 2000 cycles, making them a more durable and cost-effective solution in the long run. The LiFePO4 battery from Power Queen can handle between 4,000 and 15,000 cycles and has a lifespan of more than 10 years, making them an ideal alternative to lead-acid batteries. Additionally, LiFePO4 batteries are much safer than traditional Li-ion batteries because their chemical composition makes them less prone to overheating or explosion.
Power Queen offers high-quality LiFePO4 batteries designed for longer lifespans, higher efficiency, and sustainability. We offer a range of battery sizes and capacities suitable for various off-grid power and mobility applications. Power Queen prides itself on the quality and durability of its batteries, which are thoroughly tested to ensure customer satisfaction.
Part 3. Factors influencing the service life of lithium-ion batteries
According to the study A study on the factors influencing the degradation of lithium-ion batteriesHere are the factors that can affect the lifespan of lithium-ion batteries.
3.1 During storage
1) Temperature
The main cause of battery capacity loss during storage is temperature, with higher temperatures leading to thermal decomposition of the electrodes and electrolyte.
Electrolyte decomposition increases the thickness of the SEI (Solid Electrolyte Interface) film on the anode, consuming lithium ions, increasing internal resistance, and decreasing battery capacity. This decomposition also releases gases that increase internal pressure and pose a safety risk. As shown in Table 3.1, lithium-ion batteries stored at the same state of charge (40%) lose different percentages of their capacity over the course of a year at different temperatures.
The degree of degradation increases with higher temperatures, and extreme temperatures significantly accelerate capacity loss. For example, a 25°C increase from 0°C to 25°C results in only a 2% capacity loss, while a 20°C increase from 40°C to 60°C results in a 10% capacity loss.
Table 3.1
Temperatures above 30°C are considered stressful for lithium-ion batteries and can lead to a significant loss of their calendar life. To extend battery life, it is advisable to store lithium-ion batteries at temperatures between 5°C and 20°C.
2) State of Charge (SOC)
In lithium-ion batteries, the open-circuit voltage (OCV) increases with increasing state of charge (SOC), as shown in Figure 3.2. During storage, a higher SOC of the battery leads to a higher OCV. However, a high OCV can lead to solid electrolyte interface (SEI) growth and trigger electrolyte oxidation in Li-ion batteries, resulting in capacity loss and increased internal resistance (IR).
Figure 3.2
Figure 3.Figure 3 shows the different degradation rates of Li-ion batteries at different SOC values over a ten-year storage period. The remaining capacity of Li-ion batteries decreases more rapidly with increasing SOC.
Figure 3.3
To minimize battery degradation and extend battery life, it is advisable to maintain Li-ion batteries at a moderate SOC level. It is recommended to charge or discharge Li-ion batteries to approximately 50% SOC before storage.
3.2 During cycle operation
1) Temperature
While elevated temperature during battery operation can temporarily improve performance, prolonged cycling at high temperatures will shorten battery life. For example, a battery operating at 30°C will have a 20% reduced cycle life, while at 45°C, the battery will last only half as long as at 20°C.
Manufacturers specify a nominal operating temperature of 27°C to optimize battery life. Conversely, extremely low temperatures increase internal resistance and reduce discharge capacity. A battery that offers 100% capacity at 27°C will only have 50% capacity at -18°C.
The discharge capacity of lithium polymer cells varies with temperature, with lower capacities observed at low temperatures (0°C, -10°C, -20°C) than at higher temperatures (25°C, 40°C, 60°C). Charging lithium-ion batteries at low temperatures (below 15°C) can lead to lithium plating due to the slowed intercalation of lithium ions, which accelerates battery degradation by increasing internal resistance and further reducing discharge capacity.
Figure 3.4
To maximize the lifespan and performance of Li-ion batteries, it is recommended to operate them at moderate temperatures. A temperature of 20°C or slightly below is optimal for maximum lifespan. However, manufacturers recommend a slightly higher temperature of 27°C if maximum battery runtime is required.
2) Depth of discharge (DOD)
The depth of discharge (DOD) has a significant impact on the lifespan of Li-ion batteries. Deep discharges create pressure within the cells and damage the negative electrodes, accelerating capacity loss and increasing the risk of cell damage. As shown in Figure 3.5, a higher depth of discharge leads to a shorter battery lifespan.
Figure 3.5
Depths of discharge greater than 50% are referred to as deep discharges. When the voltage of a lithium-ion battery drops from 4.2 V to 3.0 V, approximately 95% of its energy is consumed, resulting in the shortest possible battery life with continuous cycling. To prevent capacity loss, it is recommended to avoid deep discharges during battery replacement. Partial discharges and recharges of lithium-ion batteries help extend their lifespan.
Manufacturers typically classify a battery according to the 80% DOD formula, which means that only 80% of the input energy is utilized during use, while the remaining 20% is reserved for extending the battery's lifespan. While lowering the DOD value can extend battery life, a DOD value that is too low can result in insufficient battery life and prevent certain tasks from being completed.For lithium-ion batteries, a DOD value of approximately 50% is recommended to achieve maximum service life and optimal operating time.
3) Charging voltage
Li-ion batteries can achieve high capacity and longer runtime with high charging voltages. However, fully charging them is not recommended, as this can lead to lithium plating, resulting in a loss of capacity and potentially damaging the battery, increasing the risk of fire or explosion.
Figure 3.6
Figure 3.6 illustrates capacity degradation at high charging voltages (> 4.2 V/cell) and shows that higher voltages result in faster capacity loss and shorter battery life. The recommended charging voltage for optimal capacity and safety is 4.2 V. A 70 mV reduction in charging voltage can reduce total capacity by approximately 10%.
Table 3.2 shows that the cycle life is longest at a charging voltage of 3.90 V (2400-4000 cycles) and is halved with each 0.10 V increase in charging voltage within the range of 3.90 V to 4.30 V.
Table 3.2
To avoid significant battery degradation, Li-ion batteries should be charged at a voltage below 4.10 V. While a lower charging voltage extends the battery's lifespan, it results in a shorter operating time. Furthermore, discharging below 2.5 V/cell should be avoided, and a charging voltage of 3.92 V is optimal for achieving the longest battery life. For this reason, Power Queen does not recommend to charge a Lifepo4 battery with a lead-acid charger, as its voltage is insufficient for proper charging. Below is the format of the recommended charging voltage for various deep-cycle battery systems.
The recommended charging voltage depends on the type of deep-cycle battery system. For electronic devices such as laptops and mobile phones, a higher voltage threshold is used to maximize battery life. In contrast, for large-scale energy storage systems for satellites or electric vehicles, a lower voltage threshold is set to extend battery life. Regardless of the application, overcharging lithium-ion batteries can significantly shorten their lifespan and pose safety risks such as fire or explosion, and therefore requires careful management.
4) Charging current/C-rate
Lithium-ion batteries experience several adverse effects at high C-rates, including increased internal resistance, loss of available energy, safety concerns, and irreversible capacity loss.
An important consequence of high C-rates is lithium plating. When a Li-ion battery is charged at high current, the lithium ions migrate rapidly, leading to an accumulation of lithium on the anode surface and forming metallic lithium. This process is further exacerbated when batteries are charged rapidly at low temperatures or high states of charge (SOC).
The deposited lithium can form dendritic structures under the influence of gravity, increasing the battery's self-discharge rate. In severe cases, this can lead to short circuits and potential fires. Furthermore, high charge and discharge currents contribute to greater energy loss due to internal resistance, which converts energy into heat. If the C-rate exceeds the battery's recommended value, the increased temperature can stress the battery, causing damage and accelerating capacity loss.
5) Cycle frequency
Frequent cycling of lithium-ion batteries, especially when performed four or more times per day, can lead to mechanical stress and promote the growth of the solid-electrolyte interphase (SEI) layer.
During cycling, lithium-ion batteries lose both positive and negative lithium sites on the electrodes, reducing their capacity. The buildup of the SEI layer increases the internal resistance of the battery and reduces electronic conductivity and charging capacity.
Thickening of the SEI layer, reduction of lithium reaction sites, and other chemical changes in Li-ion batteries lead to capacity loss and eventual battery failure. Although there is no specific research directly addressing this issue, it is believed that high cycling frequency accelerates battery degradation due to the high temperatures generated by frequent use.
Continuous cycling of lithium-ion batteries without sufficient cooling time can cause chemical stress, leading to the decomposition of electrolytes and electrodes.
Part 4. Methods for extending the life of Li-ion batteries
To extend the life of lithium-ion batteries, you should follow the following guidelines:
Keep the battery at moderate temperatures: High temperatures can shorten the battery life. It is recommended to store or use lithium-ion batteries in a moderate temperature range of 5°C to 20°C.
Partial discharge and recharge: Partial discharge and recharge of lithium-ion batteries can extend their lifespan. Avoid deep discharges above 50% DOD to extend battery life.
Maintain moderate SOC values: Extreme SOC values can lead to capacity loss and shorten battery life. Keeping lithium-ion batteries at a moderate SOC level minimizes degradation and extends their lifespan.
Avoid heat exposure: High temperatures during use or storage can increase SEI thickness and trigger electrolyte oxidation, leading to capacity loss and shortened lifespan.
Store batteries correctlywhen not in use: Store lithium-ion batteries at an SOC of approximately 50% and protect them from extreme temperatures and humidity when not in use.
Avoid rapid charging and discharging: Rapid charging and discharging generates excessive heat, which can damage the battery's internal components over time and shorten the battery's overall lifespan.
Use OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) chargers: Using OEM chargers specifically designed for Li-ion batteries ensures they receive the correct voltage and current, preventing damage and extending their lifespan. Power Queen offers suitable LiFePO4 battery chargers for charging LiFePO4 lithium batteries.
Part 5. Frequently asked questions about the Li-ion battery
1. How long do lithium batteries last in cars?
The lifespan of lithium batteries in cars depends on several factors, including battery quality, usage patterns, and environmental conditions. In general, a well-maintained lithium battery in a car can last between 8 and 10 years, or even longer.
However, battery life can vary considerably depending on vehicle usage, charging habits, ambient temperature, and driving style. To ensure maximum battery life and performance, it is important to follow the manufacturer's battery maintenance and charging guidelines.
2. How long do lithium batteries last in a motorhome?
A well-maintained Lithium battery in a motorhomel typically lasts between 5 and 7 years or more. Power Queen lithium batteries, with a lifespan of up to 4,000-15,000 cycles, can last over 10 years.
3. How long can a lithium battery last without recharging?
How long a lithium-ion battery lasts without recharging depends on several factors, including the battery's capacity, the device it's in, and the device's power consumption. On average, most lithium-ion batteries can last between 2 and 10 years without recharging, depending on storage conditions. However, this time can vary depending on temperature, usage patterns, and storage conditions. Proper storage and maintaining the recommended state of charge (SOC) are critical to maximizing lifespan. Even when not in use, lithium-ion batteries can lose charge over time and may need to be recharged before use.
4. Is a LiFePO4 battery safer than a lithium-ion battery?
Yes, lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4 or LFP) batteries are considered safer than traditional lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries. This is due to their more stable chemistry, which makes them less prone to overheating, thermal runaway, and other safety issues.
LiFePO4 batteries have a lower risk of thermal runaway because they have lower internal resistance, meaning they generate less heat, reducing the likelihood of cell damage or explosion. Additionally, they offer greater thermal stability and can withstand high temperatures without loss of capacity, making them ideal for applications requiring a continuous and reliable power source.
Part 6. Worth it itself the investment in Lithium-ion batteries?
Compared to outdated lead-acid batteries Lithium-ion batteries are undeniably the better choice. They are lighter, have a higher power storage capacity, and a lower self-discharge rate. They also require less maintenance and have a longer lifespan. While they may be more expensive initially, the overall savings are significant. Therefore, we consider lithium-ion batteries a valuable investment. They provide a reliable and hassle-free way to store large amounts of energy, which can be especially useful when it's needed most.
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