LITHIUM ION BATTERY

Jan. 19, 2019

Bharat Heavy Electricals (BHEL) and Libcoin are in dialogue to form a world class consortium to initially build 1GWh lithium ion battery plant in India. Its capacity will be scaled up to 30GWh in due course.

About: 

  • A lithium-ion battery or Li-ion battery (abbreviated as LIB) is a type of rechargeable battery. 

  • Components: 
    • Li-ion batteries use an intercalated lithium compound as one electrode material, compared to the metallic lithium used in a non-rechargeable lithium battery. 

    • The electrolyte, which allows for ionic movement, and the two electrodes are the constituent components of a lithium-ion battery cell. 



  • Working: In this, lithium ions move from the negative electrode to the positive electrode during discharge and back when charging. 

  • Application: They are one of the most popular types of rechargeable batteries for portable electronics. LIBs are also growing in popularity for military, battery electric vehicle and aerospace applications. 

  • Benefits: They have high energy density, tiny memory effect and low self-discharge. 

  • Safety hazards: These batteries can pose unique safety hazards since they contain a flammable electrolyte and may be kept pressurized. A battery cell charged too quickly could cause a short circuit, leading to explosions and fires. 

Recent development:

  • BHEL will be sending a team of senior officers for study of the techno-commercial issues soon. Based upon the recommendations of the team, further process towards formation of Joint Venture will be carried forward. 

  • Significance: 
    • With this, India has finally taken steps into its energy security and clean energy commitment to the world. 

    • This project will bring energy independence by replacing oil imports with abundant renewable. It will also create integrated manufacturing ecosystem resulting in self-reliance and lower cost.