Lithium ion battery systems are now some of the most common types of energy supplies in the 21st century. Because of their brilliant design and chemistry, they are used in many industries, and unbeknownst to many, lithium ion batteries are what keep most of our everyday gadgets working. To better understand how these innovations work, we must learn the capabilities of lithium itself and how it was able to revolutionize the world we live in today.
Industries That Utilize Lithium
Brine and hard rock are the two main sources of lithium however, you can never find it in its metallic form since it’s highly flammable and will spontaneously react even with just water.
This is also the reason why some unstable lithium ion battery systems may explode when exposed to extreme conditions. Lithium is also the lightest form of all metals and has many industrial applications aside from batteries.
1. Glass
Glass is an indispensable part of many industries from architecture, and scientific studies, to even electrical transmission. Without spodumene, which is a type of lithium aluminum silicate, the overall structure of glass cannot be formed.
2. Pharmaceuticals
Lithium salts are types of lithium compounds that are used in pharmacology, specifically in psychiatry. It can be used in certain medications for bipolar and major depressive disorders when antidepressants do not help improve the condition of the patient.
3. Ceramics
Lithium has the important job of lowering firing temperatures when cooking ceramics. They are also used to glaze the finished product to improve the ceramic work’s viscosity, luster, color, and overall durability.
4. Metallics
Lithium is also used when making steel and iron casting molds. They also provide thermal insulation, lubricate the surface of the steel, and also reduce any type of defects that may happen during the production process.
Battery Applications
Today, lithium is more properly known to be used in battery technology and there are generally two different types of li-ion cells that are commonly used nowadays. Non-rechargeable or primary batteries come in different shapes and sizes but they are often used for conventional gadgets that can be found in our homes such as cameras and watches.
They are typically durable and have higher densities than alkaline batteries which means they can often last longer. Recharchargable or secondary batteries, on the other hand, can power more advanced gadgets like laptops and mobile phones. They can also be used for power grids and are often the battery of choice for electric vehicles.
Lithium-Ion Battery Systems in Electric Cars
Electrification is sweeping the automotive industry whether on land, air, or sea. This is why lithium ion battery systems need to keep up with the gradual rise of electric and hybrid vehicles. Lithium ion batteries are now incorporated into modern electric cars and are also used to power navigation systems in boats.
Since electric vehicles need lighter parts for maximum performance, lithium ion battery systems in cars are used for this exact purpose. They are lighter which means they do not require too much energy when the car is in motion.
