WHAT IS A LITHIUM IRON PHOSPHATE BATTERY?

The lithium-iron phosphate battery or LFP battery is a variant of the lithium-ion battery with a cell voltage of 3.2 V to 3.3 V. In contrast to conventional lithium cobalt(III) oxide (LiCoO2) batteries, the positive electrode consists of lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4), while the negative electrode is made of graphite with embedded lithium. This type of battery has a lower energy density than conventional batteries, but is not prone to thermal runaway as there is no oxygen supplier, which is present in lithium cobalt(III) oxide. However, in the event of overheating, for example due to mechanical damage, flammable gases can escape from the battery, which can be ignited in the air on contact with an external flame. However, in the event of overheating, for example due to mechanical damage, flammable gases can escape from the battery, which can be ignited in the air on contact with an external flame. LiFePO batteries offer considerable advantages over lead-acid batteries in terms of cycle stability, size, capacity and weight. However, a significant disadvantage is the higher purchase price of LiFePO4 batteries compared to electrically equivalent lead batteries. Compared to NMC batteries, iron-phosphate batteries are safer and are therefore also used for stationary home storage.