Lithium-ion or Li-ion batteries power nearly every facet of our lives. They’re famous for their high energy density, which lets them run for extended periods before needing a recharge. That said, you also need to know about charging lithium-ion batteries safely.
Storing lithium-ion batteries at full charge for an extended period can increase stress and decrease capacity. It’s recommended to store lithium-ion batteries at a 40-50% charge level. Research indicates that storing a battery at a 40% charge reduces the loss of capacity and the rate of aging.
However, lithium-ion batteries can be damaged and do not benefit from trickle charging. Once a lithium-ion battery is fully charged, keeping it connected to a charger can lead to the plating of metallic lithium, which can compromise the battery’s safety and lifespan.
Yes, it is dangerous to attempt to charge a deeply discharged Lithium battery. Most Lithium charger ICs measure each cell's voltage when charging begins and if the voltage is below a minimum of 2.5V to 3.0V it attempts a charge at a very low current . If the voltage does not rise then the charger IC stops charging and alerts an alarm.
Lithium batteries are sensitive to overcharging, overheating, and incorrect voltage levels, which can lead to battery damage, reduced lifespan, or even hazards like leakage, fire, or explosion. It is crucial to prioritize safety when charging lithium batteries to protect yourself and your devices.
Using a regular charger for lithium batteries can be risky as it may not provide the correct charging parameters. This can lead to overcharging, which can cause overheating, reduced battery lifespan, and even safety hazards such as fire or explosion. Can using a regular charger void the warranty of my lithium battery?