Lithium-Ion Batteries
Lithium-ion is the most popular rechargeable battery chemistry used today. Lithium-ion batteries power most of the devices we use every day, such as mobile phones and electric vehicles.
Lithium-ion batteries consist of single or multiple lithium-ion cells, together with a protective circuit board. They are referred to as batteries once the cell, or cells, are installed inside a device with the protective circuit board.
Lithium batteries rely on lithium ions to store energy by creating an electrical potential difference between the negative and positive poles of the battery. An insulating layer called a “separator” divides the two sides of the battery and blocks the electrons while still allowing the lithium ions to pass through.
During the charging phase, lithium ions move from the positive side of the battery to the negative side through the separator. While you discharge the battery, the ions move in the reverse direction.
The movement of lithium ions causes an electrical potential difference to occur. This electrical potential difference is called “voltage.” When you connect your electronics to a lithium battery, the electrons which are blocked by the separator are forced to pass through your device and power it.
High energy densities and long lifespans have made Li-ion batteries the market leader in portable electronic devices and electrified transportation.
Lithium-Ion Batteries Testing
In order to ensure that all relevant safety concerns are understood, testing procedures which evaluate the performance, safety and life of lithium-ion batteries are now essential.
There have been circumstances where lithium-ion batteries have overheated, caught fire, or exploded when being charged. As a result, a range of safety and testing protocols have become ever more important, and they strictly govern the design and use of lithium-ion batteries.
Battery charging is obviously central to the range of testing procedures which are currently required.
Because charging is an on-going requirement for lithium-ion batteries, an assessment of the safety hazards associated with AC powered devices is a key testing matter.
This includes testing the potential for overheating, fire and electric shock from the device.
An additional, essential testing procedure governs the transportation and disposal of batteries.
Test batteries are subjected to extreme temperature conditions, the effects of shock and impact, in addition to short circuit testing that might occur during shipping or transportation.
Electromagnetic compatibility testing is undertaken to ensure that any devices which contain lithium-ion batteries will not malfunction following a high level of electromagnetic interference. Additional tests can ensure that electronic devices do not create any electromagnetic interference, causing nearby devices to malfunction.
Testing will also identify weak cells and faulty intercell connectors, and any potential improvements that can be made to the technical specifications of lithium-ion batteries.
Beyond the essential safety testing that is required, additional tests of lithium-ion batteries will identify performance constraints including a range of issues and any expected performance parameters.
International recognized testing subsequently provides a significant overview of lithium-ion batteries, especially the safety and performance levels that can be achieved and expected.