What is a Lithium Polymer Battery?

Lithium polymer batteries are a popular type of battery on the market. These batteries power many of our everyday mobile devices. It is important to know the characteristics of the battery, as well as the risk, to ensure they are properly taken care of.

Lithium polymer batteries are batteries that are often used in mobile devices, such as cell phones, digital cameras and laptops. They sometimes go by the name LiPo or LiPoly. These batteries are ideal for mobile devices, because they are lighter in weight and store more energy. The lithium is in the polymer. The batteries are filled with packs of polymer gel. It does not need a metal case to close in the electrodes, therefore making it lighter than other batteries. These batteries have a higher voltage than most batteries. Polymer batteries hold a charge of 3.7 volts. They can be stored longer, because of slow loss of charge. Loss of charge means that it will eventually lose its charge. It is a characteristic that all batteries have. However, lithium polymer batteries are not affected by “memory effect,” which is when a battery is unable to hold a charge because of being partially discharged numerous times.

Lithium polymer batteries are not the same as Lithium ion batteries. Lithium polymer batteries are usually a narrow, flat rectangle. Ion batteries have a cylinder shape. Polymer batteries cost less and are not quite as flammable as ion batteries. However, Lithium polymer batteries can explode if not charged or taken care of properly. These batteries do not need to be left or used in extreme temperatures. It is wise to read all instruction on the battery to avoid hazardous situations.