Lithium Polymer Batteries

Lithium Polymer batteries are a type of Lithium Ion rechargeable battery.

Lithium Polymer batteries utilize a dry polymer which enables them to be manufactured in a greater variety of shapes and sizes than Lithium Ion batteries.

Lithium Polymer batteries also utilize a gelled electrolyte to increase conductance. These batteries may be more correctly referred to as Lithium Ion Polymer batteries.

Lithium Polymer Battery Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Flexible form factor – Lithium Polymer batteries can be manufactured in a wide range of shapes and sizes
• Lightweight – Lithium Polymer batteries do not require the metal casings which are required by Lithium Ion batteries
• Safe – The polymer electrolyte used in Lithium Polymer batteries is not flammable

Cons:

• More expensive than Lithium Ion batteries
• Slightly lower enery density than Lithium Ion batteries
• Slightly lower cycles count than Lithium Ion batteries

Lithium Polymer Battery Alternatives

Alternatives to Lithium Polymer batteries include:

• Nickel Cadmium
• Nickel-Metal Hydride
• Lithium Ion