The difference between lithium battery and nickel-hydrogen battery
As a developer and manufacturer of lithium batteries, we understand that users are concerned about the performance of different types of batteries. In this article, we will analyze the difference between lithium batteries and nickel-metal hydride batteries in detail from a professional point of view, to help you better understand the characteristics of the two types of batteries and their application scenarios.
Chemical composition and working principle (1) Lithium battery (Li-ion)
Positive electrode material: usually use lithium metal oxide (such as lithium cobaltate, lithium iron phosphate, etc.).
Negative electrode material: graphite or silicon carbon composite material is used.
Electrolyte: organic electrolyte with high ionic conductivity.
Working principle: lithium ions move between the positive and negative electrodes through the electrolyte during the charging and discharging process to complete the energy storage and release. (2) Nickel-metal hydride battery (NiMH)
Working Principle: Storage and release of electrical energy is realized through the absorption and desorption reaction of hydrogen ions.
Conclusion: Lithium batteries and nickel-metal hydride batteries are completely different in chemical composition and working principle, which determines the difference in their performance.
Image source: freepik
Performance Comparison The following is the comparison between lithium batteries and nickel-metal hydride batteries in terms of key performance indicators: (1) Energy density
Lithium battery: high energy density, usually 150-250Wh/kg.
Ni-MH battery: lower energy density, about 60-120Wh/kg. This means that Li-ion batteries can store more power in the same volume or weight, suitable for portable devices and high-performance demand scenarios. (2) Memory effect
Li-ion battery: almost no memory effect, can be recharged at any time without affecting the capacity.
Nickel Hydride Battery: There is a slight memory effect, long-term incomplete charging and discharging may lead to capacity loss. (3) Self-discharge rate
Lithium battery: low self-discharge rate, only about 2%-5% loss per month.
Nickel-metal hydride batteries: high self-discharge rate, may lose 20%-30% of the capacity per month. (4) Cycle life
Lithium batteries: long cycle life, up to 1000 times or more.
Nickel-metal hydride batteries: shorter cycle life, generally about 500 times. (5) Charging speed
Lithium batteries: support fast charging technology, can restore a large amount of power in a short time.
Nickel-metal hydride batteries: charging speed is relatively slow, and overcharging may lead to heat or damage. (6) Environmental friendliness
Lithium batteries: contain a small amount of hazardous substances, but can be recycled through the recycling process to achieve resource reuse.
– Nickel-metal hydride batteries: do not contain heavy metal cadmium, relatively environmentally friendly, but the energy storage efficiency is low.
Differences in application fields Due to the different performance characteristics, lithium batteries and nickel-metal hydride batteries have their own focus in practical applications:
Lithium batteries: widely used in smart phones, laptops, drones, electric vehicles and other high-performance needs.
– Nickel-metal hydride batteries: mostly used in hybrid cars, household appliances and other cost-sensitive scenarios that do not require high energy density.
Summary Li-ion batteries and NiMH batteries are two very different battery technologies, and their differences are mainly reflected in their chemical composition, performance and application scope. Overall, Li-ion batteries have become the mainstream choice for modern electronic devices and new energy sources due to their high energy density, long cycle life, and low self-discharge rate, while NiMH batteries still have a place in specific areas due to their environmental friendly features and lower cost. If you have more questions about the choice of battery technology or application scenarios, please feel free to contact us!
