What is a lithium iron phosphate battery?

LiFePO4 is a lithium-ion battery that uses lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) as the cathode material and carbon as the cathode material.

During charging, some of the lithium ions are removed from the lithium iron phosphate and passed through the electrolyte to the negative electrode, where they become embedded in the negative carbon material; at the same time, electrons are released from the positive electrode and go to the negative electrode through the external circuit to keep the chemical reaction in balance. During the discharge process, lithium ions leak from the negative electrode and pass through the electrolyte to the positive electrode, while electrons are released from the negative electrode and pass to the positive electrode from the external circuit, releasing energy to the outside.

Lithium iron phosphate batteries have the advantages of high operating voltage, high energy density, long service life, good safety, low self-discharge and no memory effect.

Why lithium iron phosphate for Solar applications?

Lithium iron phosphate batteries (LiFePO4), also called LFP batteries ("LFP" stands for "lithium iron phosphate"), offer significant advantages compared to lead-acid batteries, such as B. Better discharge efficiency, longer life and deep cycle capability while maintaining performance. While they are often more expensive than lead-acid batteries, the low maintenance and infrequent replacement make LiFePO4 batteries a valuable investment and a viable long-term solution. Lithium iron phosphate batteries (LiFePO4) are not new, but recent developments and improvements have made this type of battery a natural choice for many applications, including the solar industry.

• Safety
Lithium iron phosphate batteries (LiFePO4) are known for their high level of safety, which is due to their extremely stable chemistry. They will not explode or catch fire in the event of a hazardous event such as a crash or short circuit, greatly reducing the likelihood of injury.

• Performance
LiFePO4 batteries have a much longer lifespan than lead-acid batteries and can typically operate for 5-7 years with a cycle life of up to 2500 cycles. After a year, LiFePO4 batteries typically have about the same energy density as LiCoO2 lithium-ion batteries. Battery charging times are also significantly reduced, another practical performance benefit.

• Weatherproof
Both lead-acid and lithium iron phosphate batteries lose capacity in cold environments. At -20˚C it still has 80% capacity compared to 30% for AGM batteries. For many locations with extremely cold or hot weather, LiFePO4 is the best choice.

• Lightweight
Compared to lead-acid batteries, lithium iron phosphate batteries are almost four times the weight of lead -Acid batteries. For example, a 150Ah lead acid battery weighs about 50kg, while a LiFePO4 battery only weighs 15kg. For many solar applications, this offers significant benefits in the form of lower installation costs and faster project turnaround.

• Fast charging
LiFePO4 batteries can be quickly charged to 100%. Lead-acid batteries must be charged in the absorption phase.