Lithium batteries are increasingly widely used in modern production and daily life due to their large capacity and lack of memory effect, especially in products like mobile phones and computers, which are almost always equipped with lithium batteries! Many mobile phones come with an extra spare battery. So, how should this spare battery be stored after it's fully charged to ensure its energy isn't lost?
1. Lithium primary battery
Also known as a primary lithium battery. It can discharge continuously or intermittently. Once the power is depleted, it can no longer be used. It is widely used in low-power electronic products such as cameras.
Lithium primary batteries have very low self-discharge and can be stored for up to 3 years. Refrigeration will enhance their performance. Storing lithium primary batteries in a cool place is a good method. Important note: Unlike lithium-ion batteries, lithium primary batteries cannot be recharged; attempting to recharge them is extremely dangerous!
2. Lithium-ion batteries
Also known as a secondary lithium battery. It can be stored for more than six months at 20°C because of its very low self-discharge rate and the fact that most of its capacity can be recovered.
Lithium batteries are prone to self-discharge. If the battery voltage is stored below 3.6V for an extended period, it can lead to over-discharge, damaging the internal structure and reducing battery life. Therefore, lithium batteries intended for long-term storage should be recharged every 3-6 months, specifically to a voltage of 3.8-3.9V (the optimal storage voltage for lithium batteries is around 3.85V), maintaining a discharge depth of 40%-60%. They should not be fully charged. Batteries should be stored in a dry environment between 4℃ and 35℃ or in moisture-proof packaging. Keep them away from heat sources and direct sunlight.
Lithium batteries have a wide operating temperature range. They can still be used outdoors in the winter in the north, but the capacity will be greatly reduced. If they return to room temperature, the capacity can be restored.
Of course, lithium batteries only have a small amount of charge when you first buy them. This is because the storage performance of lithium batteries is an important parameter for measuring the overall stability of the battery's performance. Lithium battery manufacturers store newly manufactured lithium batteries for a certain period of time before releasing them for sale. This allows the electrochemical performance of the various components inside the lithium battery to stabilize, ensuring the battery's quality. Therefore, you need to charge them before use.
