Lithium-ion batteries are common in consumer electronics, especially for applications that require a portable power source. They have an excellent energy-to-weight ratio and lose their charge slowly over time. Lithium-ion batteries can be recharged by moving the lithium ions from the negative electrode (cathode) to the positive electrode (anode). Lithium-ion batteries come in a variety of sizes and storage capacities and have many specialized features, but their basic construction is relatively simple.
Instructions
1. Make a thin sheet of lithium cobalt oxide (LiCoO2). This lithium compound forms the anode of the lithium ion battery. Use a thin sheet of carbon to form the battery's cathode.
2. Place a very thin sheet of plastic with microscopic perforations between the LiCoO2 and carbon sheets. This plastic separator will keep the anode and cathode from actually touching but will allow the lithium ions to pass through.
3. Roll the stack of three sheets from Step 2 into a cylinder and place it into a metal case. The metal case must have some kind of venting system as a safety measure--it will be under considerable pressure once the case is sealed. It will also have a switch that will stop the current flow if the battery overheats.
4. Fill the case with an electrolytic solution. Ether is a common choice. This can vary widely according to the specific type of lithium-ion battery, but it must be able to conduct electricity. This will allow electricity to flow from the anode to the cathode.
5. Seal the case and use the battery. Each cell of a lithium ion battery produces about 3.7 volts, which is considerable higher than the 1.5 volts provided by an alkaline battery.
Tags: Lithium-ion batteries, thin sheet, anode cathode, lithium battery, lithium ions, metal case
