What are the different types of lithium batteries?

There are many different chemistries of lithium cells and batteries, but for transportation purposes, all lithium cells and batteries fall into one of two basic types: lithium ion and lithium metal.

Both battery types are characterized by a higher energy and a longer operating life than alkaline, nickel cadmium, and nickel metal hydride chemistries.

Lithium ion (Li-ion), including lithium polymer (Li-Po):

• are generally rechargeable (secondary) batteries, and
• are found in a wide range of electronic devices such as laptop and tablet computers, cellular telephones, hybrid vehicles, etc.

Lithium metal (LiM) batteries:

• are generally non-rechargeable (primary, one-time use); • have a longer life than standard alkaline batteries; and
• are commonly used in hearing aids, wristwatches, smoke detectors, cameras, key fobs, children’s toys, etc.