Sony Us18650gr Battery
Sony Us18650gr Battery
Sony Us18650gr Battery
Technical Handbook
Table of Contents
1 Overview of Batteries
1-1 Foreword
1-2 Features
1-5 Cathode
1-6 Anode
1-7 Battery construction and configuration
11
1113
15
15
2 Battery Characteristics
17
17
17
17
17
17
17
19
1925
Lithium ion rechargeable batteries with lithium cobalt oxide cathodes and graphite anodes
1. Charge characteristics; 2. Discharge characteristics;
3. Storage characteristics; 4. Discharge characteristics at GSM pulse mode
2731
Lithium ion rechargeable batteries with lithium cobalt oxide cathodes and graphite anodes
1. Charge characteristics; 2. Discharge characteristics; 3. Storage characteristics
3337
Lithium ion rechargeable batteries with lithium cobalt oxide cathodes and hard carbon anodes
1. Charge characteristics; 2. Discharge characteristics; 3. Storage characteristics
3 Safety
39
39
39
4143
45
47
47
47
49
49
49
49
49
49
51
51
51
53
53
53
53
55
55
6-1-1 Charging
55
6-1-2 Discharging
55
55
57
57
6-2-2 Charging
57
6-2-3 Discharging
57
6-2-4 Storage
57
57
7 Safety Indications
59
59
59
61
6165
67
67
67
67
67
6973
75
1-1
Foreword
Portable electronic equipment is moving toward increasing compactness and light
weight, and we are on the threshold of the age of wearable equipment. In such
circumstances the rechargeable batteries which power such equipment play an
increasingly vital role, and in addition to demands for reduced size and weight, there
are now also requests for performance necessary to support the sophisticated
functions of modern equipment. In response to these needs, Sony has conducted
development based on entirely novel concepts, and in 1991 released the world's first
commercial lithium ion rechargeable battery product. In addition to a high energy
density, this battery also offered excellent low-temperature characteristics, load
characteristics and cycle characteristics. As a result, it quickly became an
indispensable source of power for audio and video equipment, personal computers,
portable telephones, and other portable equipment. And, Sony development efforts
are advancing steadily toward the next generation of products, targeting new type
lithium ion rechargeable batteries which are easier to use such as "polymer
batteries" with polymerized electrolyte.
12
1-2
Features
1Energy densities are high; the US18650 size attains the energy density per volume of
approx. 440 Wh/l and the energy density per weight of approx. 160 Wh/kg.
2Voltages are high, with average operating voltages at 3.6 V for hard carbon
batteries and 3.7 V for graphite batteries; these are approximately three times the
cutoff voltage of Ni-Cd and Ni-MH batteries.
3Charge/discharge cycle characteristics are excellent; batteries can be put
through 500 or more cycles.
4Self-discharge is minimal, at under 10% per month.
5There is no memory effect such as that in Ni-Cd and Ni-MH batteries.
6Remaining capacity can easily be indicated using the discharge curve.
7Carbon material, rather than metallic lithium or lithium alloy, is used as the
anode material. The lithium ion state is maintained over a wide range of operating
conditions, for excellent safety.
8In accordance with using gel polymer electrolyte, laminated film can be used to
outer equipment and,thinandlightlithium ion rechargeable battery was
achieved.
Thickness is approx. 2.5mm at present. In future, achievement of 1mm or less
is possible.
According to using special gel polymer electrolyte, it become possible to supply
no leak of the electrolyte and extremely high safety batteries.
Development of big footprint cells become possible (xx5385 series like as
325385 etc.). That was impossible to usual lithium ion batteries.
13
1-3
Current
Electrons
Current
Cathode
+
Li
+
Li
+ +
Li Li
+
Li
+
Li
+
Li
+
Li
Electrons
Separator
Separator
Anode
+ +
Li Li
+ +
Li Li
Electrolyte
(Polymer battery:gel polymer electrolyte)
Discharge
14
Charger
Load
Cathode
Anode
+
Li
+ +
Li Li
+ +
Li Li
+ +
Li Li
+
Li
+
Li
+
Li
+
Li
+
Li
Electrolyte
(Polymer battery:gel polymer electrolyte)
Charge
Figure 1
1-4
Charge/discharge mechanism
Battery charging and discharging occur through the migration of lithium ions between
the cathodes and anodes and the exchange of electrons through doping and dedoping.
More specifically, during charging lithium is dedoped from cathodes consisting of a
lithium-containing compound, and the interlayers of carbon in anodes are doped with
lithium. Conversely, during discharge lithium is dedoped from between the carbon layers
in anodes, and the compound layers in cathodes are doped with lithium. Reactions
occurring in lithium ion rechargeable batteries employing LiCoO2(lithium cobaltate) in
cathodes and carbon in anodes are shown in Figure1.
By means of the initial charging, which takes place during battery manufacture, lithium
ions migrate from the lithium compound of the cathode to the carbon material of the
anode.
initial charge
LiCoO2 C Li1xCoO2 LixC
Subsequent discharge reactions occur through the migration of lithium ions from
the anode to the cathode.
discharge
Li1xdxCoO2 LixdxC
Li1xCoO2 LixC
charge
15
1-5
Cathodes
Compounds containing lithium ions and which can be used as the cathode active
material must be capable of dedoping lithium during charge, and undergo lithium
doping during discharge. Candidate compounds include LiCoO2 (lithium cobaltate),
LiNiO2 (lithium nickelate), and LiMn2O4 (spinel-structure lithium manganate). On
comparing the characteristics of these compounds, LiCoO2 was selected for use as
the first generation's cathode active material due to its reversibility, discharge
capacity, charge/discharge efficiency, discharge curve and other properties. At
present employing of LiNi CoXO2 was achieved.LiMn2O4 is also being studied.
16
1-6
Anodes
In order to use carbon material in anodes to obtain batteries with a high energy
density, the lithium storage capability of the anode carbon material must be
enhanced. Carbon materials with large doping capacities, and the possibility of
lithium-carbon intercalation complexes exceeding the LiC 6 stoichiometric
composition, are being studied.
The following three types of carbon material have been employed in anodes.
(1) Graphite
(2) Graphitizable carbon (soft carbon)
(3) Nongraphitizable carbon (hard carbon)
In hard carbon, the interlayer distances are large compared with those in graphite
and soft carbon, and reversibility in charging and discharging is good, for excellent
cycling characteristics. In addition, floating charge characteristics during charging
are also satisfactory. And such materials have a sloping discharge curve, so that by
measuring the battery voltage the remaining capacity can be easily determined.
On the other hand, graphite materials have a little working voltage by the depth of
discharge and exhibit excellent characteristics in constant-power discharge. When
the lithium ion battery with nickel cathode material and graphite anode is used, such
materials have a sloping discharge curve, so that the remaining capacity can be
easily indicated like as hard carbon anode battery.
In our research, it was confirmed that lithium in hard carbon and graphite
materials always remains in the ionic state, and does not exist in the metallic state.
17
1-7
Polymer
Cathode Tab
Anode Tab
Top Insulator
Cathode
Anode
Al laminate film
Figure 2
11
Cylindrical
Cathode lead
Top cover
Safety vent
PTC
Gasket
Separator
Insulator
Anode lead
Anode can
Insulator
Cathode
Anode
Prismatic
Terminal plate
Cathode pin
Cap plate
Insulator
Insulator case
Safety vent
Separator
Gasket
Cathode lead
Anode can
Cathode
Anode
Figure 2
As for cylindrical and prismatic batteries, sheet like cathodes and anodes are
wound together in a spiral shape. Between the cathodes and anodes is wound a
polymer separator film which acts to obstruct micropores and interruqt the reaction
should the cell temperature rise excessively for some reason. In order to ensure cell
safety, for example, the cylindrical battery incorporates a safety mechanism
consisting of a circuit breaker, rupture disk, and PTC(possive temperature
coefficient)device. The electrolyte is an organic solvent which is stable up to high
voltage, in which a lithium salt is dissolved.
As for polymer batteries, there are gel polymer electrolyte between cathodes and
anodes. Other parts are of very simple constructions.
13
18
1-8
Method of manufacture
In order to ensure superior characteristics, batteries are manufactured in a
rigorously controlled environment using carefully maintained equipment.
Manufacturing processes can be broadly divided into three stages: electrode
material production process, assembly process, and charge-discharge process.
Electrode production process: The electrode active materials are used to manufacture
the electrode mixtures. These mixtures are then used to uniformly coat both sides
of a thin metal foil. The amount of electrode mixture applied has a considerable
influence on battery performance, and control of the amount of coated material is
crucial.
Assembly process: In batteries where lithium ions figure in battery reactions,
elimination of all water content is mandatory. All battery components are dried
thoroughly, and batteries are assembled inside a dry room held at low humidity.
Charge-discharge process: In the initial charging, lithium ions move from the
cathode to the anode, and the device begins to function as a battery. Prior to
shipment the discharge capacity is measured, and cells with similar performance are
combined in battery packs.
19
1-9
Environmental considerations
In March 1997, Sony Fukushima Corporation(former Sony Energytech Inc.), the
main business unit manufacturing lithium ion rechargeable batteries, was the first
company in the Japanese battery industry to obtain ISO14001 certification, reflecting
ongoing efforts to alleviate environmental impact. At present, all Sony business units
involved in the manufacture of lithium ion rechargeable batteries are ISO14001certified, and are promoting activities for the preservation of the global environment.
In addition, Sony is conducting development of technology for recycling of lithium
ion rechargeable batteries jointly with Sumitomo Metal Mining Co., Ltd., and in
April 1996 announced completion of the world's first recycling system. Subsequent
to this, recovery of used lithium ion rechargeable batteries was begun in Japan.
Through these activities, Sony is alleviating the environmental burden imposed by
lithium ion rechargeable batteries, and is promoting reuse of valuable resources in
used batteries
15
2 Batter y Characteristics
21
2-1
Charge characteristics
The cathode potential is determined by the amount of lithium dedoped from the
LiCoO 2 or LiNiCo XO 2 cathode active material. Put another way, if a battery is
charged without setting an upper limit voltage, more lithium ions than are necessary
migrate to the anode, and the battery performance is undesirable for safety reasons.
Hence in this battery system, charging is as a rule performed under constantvoltage, constant-current control. The maximum proper charging voltage for Sony's
lithium ion rechargeable batteries is 4.2 V.
22
Discharge characteristics
2-2
The discharge voltage is initially approx. 4 V, and even on average remains high at
approx. 3.6 V for hard carbon batteries and approx. 3.7 V for graphite batteries; these
figures are three times the values of nickel cadmium rechargeable batteries and nickel
metal hydride rechargeable batteries. Such high discharge voltages are a major feature
of lithium ion rechargeable batteries. For instance, when driving equipment with an
operating voltage range of 3 V to 4 V, if using nickel cadmium rechargeable batteries,
three cells must be used connected in series, whereas a single lithium ion rechargeable
battery is sufficient to drive the same equipment. In addition, by measuring the
discharge voltage of lithium ion rechargeable batteries combined hard carbon as the
anode carbon material and lithium ion rechargeable batteries using nickel cathode
material with grphite anodes, the remaining capacity can be easily determined.
23
Storage characteristics
2-3
2-3-1
2-3-2
When batteries are stored over a long period, depending on the battery state and the
storage temperature, in some cases irreversible deterioration may occur and the
battery will fail to hold a charge even after recharging. Deterioration is not observed in
batteries in the discharged state, but the greater the charge in the battery, the more
pronounced the deterioration after storage. Also, the higher the storage temperature,
the greater the deterioration tends to be. For these reasons, lithium ion rechargeable
batteries should be in the discharged state when stored for extended lengths of time,
and it is desirable that they be stored in a low-temperature environment.
24
2-4
As charge/discharge cycles are repeated, the battery capacity (ability to hold a charge)
gradually declines. However, when batteries are charged and discharged under the conditions
recommended by Sony, they can be used for 500 or more charge/discharge cycles.
The maximum voltage for charging is 4.2 V, and the cutoff voltage in discharge is
2.5 V (for hard carbon batteries) and 3.0 V (for graphite batteries with cobalt oxide
cathode). If batteries are charged or discharged at voltages outside these ranges,
battery performance and safety are compromised. Lithium ion rechargeable
batteries are not subject to the so-called memory effect seen in alkaline aqueoussolution rechargeable batteries, in which the discharge voltage is reduced when
repeated shallow charge/discharge cycles are followed by a deep discharge.
17
25
Performance data
2-5
Charge Characteristics
2000
1600
125
Charge Voltage
100
1200
800
75
50
Charge Capacity/%
Charge Voltage/V
Charge Capacity
Charge Current/mA
1. Charge characteristics
1-[1] Charge characteristics
Figure 3 shows the charging voltage, charging
current, and charging capacity when charging under
constant-voltage, constant-current conditions
(maximum charging voltage 4.2V, maximum charging
current 720mA, ambient temperature 23).
2-5-1
Charge Current
400
25
Charge4.2V max720mA2.5h23
0
0.5
1
1.5
Charge Timeh
0
2.5
Figure 3
120
1440mA
720mA
Charging Capacity/%
100
80
360mA
145mA
60
40
where charging for 3hours at 720mA is 100%
20
Charge4.2V max
0
4
6
Charging Timeh
10
Figure 4
Discharge Capacity/mah
600
400
200
Charge4.2V max720mA2.5h23
Discharge720mA3.0V cutoff
0
-10
10
20
30
40
Ambient Temperature during Discharge
50
60
Figure 5
19
2. Discharge characteristics
2-[1] Discharge characteristics on load
Figure 6 shows changes in the battery voltage for
constant-current discharge at an ambient temperature
of 23, with the discharge current at 145mA, 360mA,
720mA and 1440mA.
360mA
Cell Voltage/V
3
720mA
1440mA
1
Charge4.2V max720mA max2.5h23
0
100
200
300
400
500
Discarge CapacitymAh
600
700
800
Figure 6
5
23
45
Cell Voltage/V
3
-20
-10
0
1
Carge4.2V max720mA2.5h23
Discharge360mA
0
100
200
300
400
500
Discarge CapacitymAh
600
700
800
Figure 7
3. Storage characteristics
3-[1] Self-discharge characteristics
Figure 8 shows the change in discharge capacity
retention for batteries stored at ambient temperatures
of 23 and 45, where the capacity retention of the
fully-charged battery prior to storage is 100%.
3-[2] Long-term storage characteristics(1)
100
Storage at 23
80
Storage at 45
60
40
20
Charge4.2V max720mA max2.5h
Discharge360mA3.0V cutoff
0
0
30
60
90
Storage Timedays
Figure 8
21
Storage Characteristics23
120
0% (3.3V)
50% (3.8V)
100
Discharge Capacity Retention/%
100% (4.2V)
80
60
40
20
Charge4.2V max720mA2.5h23
Discharge360mA3.0V cutoff
0
0.5
Storage Timeyears
Figure 9
Storage Characteristics45
120
0% (3.3V)
50% (3.8V)
100
Discharge Capacity Retention/%
100% (4.2V)
80
60
40
20
Charge4.2V max720mA2.5 h45
Discharge360mA3.0V cutoff
0
0.5
Storage Timeyears
Figure 10
Cycle Life
800
700
600
Discharge Capacity/mah
500
400
300
200
100
0
Charge4.2V max720mA2.5h23
Discharge360mA3.0V cutoff
0
100
200
300
Number of Cycles
400
500
Figure 11
23
120
1.7A
80
40
Charge4.2V max720mA50mA cut23
Discharge1.7A0.6msec0.1A4.0msec 3.0V cutoff23
0
100
200
300
400
500
Discharge CapacitymAh
600
CD-Impedance/m
160
0
800
700
Figure 12
500
400
300
-20
-10
23
200
CD-Impedance/m
Cell Voltage/V
200
Cell Voltage/V
100
0
0
100
200
300
400
500
Discharge CapacitymAh
600
700
0
800
Figure 13
25
Charge Characteristics
2000
1600
125
Charge Voltage
100
800
75
50
400
Charge Current
25
Charge4.2V max1000mA4h23
0
0.5
1.5
2
2.5
Charge Timeh
Charge Capacity/%
1200
Charge Voltage/V
Charge Capacity
Charge Current/mA
1. Charge characteristics
1-[1] Charge characteristics
Figure 14 shows the charging voltage, charging
current, and charging capacity when charging under
constant-voltage, constant-current conditions
(maximum charging voltage 4.2V, maximum
charging current 1000mA, ambient temperature
23).
2-5-2
0
3
3.5
Figure 14
2000mA
Charging Capacity/%
100
80
1000mA
400mA
60
40
where charging for 4hours at 1000mA is 100%
20
Charge4.2V max
0
4
6
Charging Timeh
10
Figure 15
2000
Discharge Capacity/mah
1600
1200
800
400
Charge4.2V max1000mA4h23
Discharge700mA3.0V cutoff
0
-10
10
20
30
40
Ambient Temperature during Discharge
50
60
Figure 16
27
2. Discharge characteristics
2-[1] Discharge characteristics on load
Figure 17 shows the change in the battery voltage for
constant-current discharge at ambient temperature of
23, with the discharge current at 400mA700mA
1000mA2000mA, 4000mA.
400mA
Cell Voltage/V
3
4000mA
2000mA
1000mA
1
Charge4.2V max1000mA max4h23
0
400
800
1200
Discarge CapacitymAh
1600
2000
Figure 17
5
23
45
Cell Voltage/V
3
-20
-10
1
Carge4.2V max1000mA4h23
Discharge700mA
0
400
800
1200
Discarge CapacitymAh
1600
2000
Figure 18
100
Discharge Capacity Retention/%
3. Storage characteristics
3-[1] Self-discharge characteristics
Figure 19 shows the change in discharge capacity
retention for batteries stored at ambient temperatures
of 23, and 45, where the capacity retention of the
fully-charged battery prior to storage is 100%.
Storage at 23
80
Storage at 45
60
40
20
Charge4.2V max1000mA max4h
Discharge700mA3.0V cutoff
0
0
30
60
Storage Timedays
90
Figure 19
29
Storage Characteristics23
120
0% (3.3V)
100
Discharge Capacity Retention/%
50% (3.8V)
100% (4.2V)
80
60
40
20
Charge4.2V max1000mA4h23
Discharge700mA3.0V cutoff
0
0.5
Storage Timeyears
Figure 20
Storage Characteristics45
120
0% (3.3V)
50% (3.8V)
100
Discharge Capacity Retention/%
100% (4.2V)
80
60
40
20
Charge4.2V max1000mA4h45
Discharge700mA3.0V cutoff
0
0.5
Storage Timeyears
Figure 21
Cycle Life
2000
1600
Discharge Capacity (mAh)
1200
800
400
Charge4.2V max1000mA4h23
Discharge700mA3.0V cutoff
0
100
200
300
Number of Cycles
400
500
Figure 22
31
25
2-5
Performance data
2-5-3
1. Charge characteristics
Charge Characteristics
5
2000
125
Charge Voltage
100
1500
1000
75
50
500
Charge Current
0
0
25
Charge4.2V max1000mA3h23
Charge Capacity%
Charge Capacity
Cell VoltageV
Charge CurrentmA
120
0.5
1.5
Charge Timeh
2.5
Figure 23
100
80
500mA
200mA
60
40
where charging for 2hours at 1000mA is 100%
20
Charge4.2V max
0
0
Charging timeh
1800
1600
1400
Figure 24
1200
1000
800
600
400
200
0
-10
10
20
30
40
50
60
Figure 25
33
2. Discharge characteristics
2-[1] Discharge characteristics on load (1)
Figure 26 shows changes in discharge curves for
constant-current discharge at an ambient temperature
of 23, with the discharge current at 280mA, 700mA,
1400mA, and 2800mA.
Discharge Current
Cell VoltageV
3
1400mA
280mA
700mA
2800mA
2
1
Charge4.2V max1000mA3h23
0
0
200
400
600
800
1000
1200
1400
1600
Discharge CapacitymAh
Figure 26
Cell VoltageV
3
-10
23
-20
0
45
2
1
Charge4.2V max1000mA 3h 23
Discharge700mA
0
0
200
400
600
800
1000
1200
1400
1600
Discharge CapacitymAh
Figure 27
100
3. Storage characteristics
3-[1] Self-discharge characteristics
Figure 28 shows the change in discharge capacity
retention for batteries stored at ambient temperatures
of 23, 30 and 45, where the capacity retention of
the fully-charged battery prior to storage is 100%.
Storage at 23
80
Storage at 30
Storage at 45
60
40
20
Charge4.2V max1000mA max3 h
Discharge750mA2.5V cutoff
0
30
60
Storage Timedays
90
Figure 28
35
Storage Characteristics at 20
120
100
50% (3.9V)
80
100% (4.2V)
60
40
20
Charge4.2V max1000mA max3 h23
Discharge750mA2.75V cutoff23
0
0
0.5
Storage Timeyears
Figure 29
120
Storage Characteristics at 40
Charge level at beginning of storage
0% (3.2V)
100
50% (3.85V)
80
100% (4.2V)
60
40
20
Charge4.2V max1000mA max3 h23
Discharge750mA2.75V cutoff23
0
0
0.5
Storage Timeyears
Figure 30
Cycle Life
1600
1400
1200
Discharge CapacitymAh
1000
800
600
400
200
0
Charge4.2V max1000mA3h23
Discharge700mA2.75V cutoff
0
100
200
300
400
500
Number of Cycle
Figure 31
37
3 Safety
31
3-1
General safety
Lithium ion batteries inherit the excellent energy density and terminal voltage of
lithium batteries, but in contrast with their lithium battery forebears, they also
feature a high level of safety. This is because, as their name indicates, over normal
operating ranges the lithium inside lithium ion rechargeable batteries is always in
the ionic state, rather than in a metallic or alloy state. Since no metallic lithium or
lithium alloys whatsoever are used, United Nations recommendations for transport
of hazardous materials also regard lithium ion rechargeable batteries as safer than
metallic lithium rechargeable batteries. And, lithium ion rechargeable batteries have
been confirmed to meet high safety standards in dozens of rigorous tests, regardless
of the state of battery charging. They have also been certified by Underwriters
Laboratories, a well-respected organization which evaluates the safety of electrical
equipment, as conforming to standards UL-1642 File No.MH12566.
As for the polymer cell, special gel polymer electrolyte is used instead of the
electrolyte which is used to the lithium ion cell normally. Therefore there is no leak
of the electrolyte within the cell for general use.
32
Safety mechanisms
3-2
39
33
3-3
3-3-1
Safety Tests
Test Item
Continuous
charging test
Shock test
Same unit
battery is used
Battery
State
Fully
charged
Fully
charged
3-3-1
Temperature
205
205
Fully
charged
Free-fall test
Fully
charged
205
Hightemperature
maintenance
test
Same unit
battery is used
Fully
charged
Fully
charged
Low-pressure
test
Fully
charged
Test Results
Vibrations
test
Thermal
shock test
Test Method
205
205
No leakage, safety
valve operates,
ruputure or ignition
No rupture or
ignition
No leakage, safety
valve operates,
ruputure or ignition
No leakage, safety
valve operates,
ruputure or ignition
41
3-3-2
3-3-2
Abuse Tests
Test Item
Battery
State
Temperature
Test Method
Test Results
No ruputure or
ignition; 150 or
less of battery
temperature
552.
Short-circuit
test
Fully
charged
205
Forced
discharge test
Fully
charged
205
No ruputure or
ignition
Overcharging test
Fully
charged
205
No ruputure or
ignition
205
No ruputure or
ignition
205
205
A round rod 8 mm in
diameter is placed near the
center of the battery, parallel
to the electrodes and
No ruputure or
perpendicular to the direction
ignition
of the upper terminal of the
battery, and a 9 kg weight is
dropped from a height of 60
cm onto the rod.
205
High-rate
charge test
Crushing test
Impact test
Heat
exposure test
Fully
charged
Fully
charged
Fully
charged
Fully
charged
43
34
3-4
45
4 Batter y Modules
41
4-1
Battery modules
From safety considerations, lithium ion rechargeable batteries are never used in bare
cell units, but are always used with a protective circuit. Moreover, normally multiple cells
are combined in a single housing and used as a battery pack or module. The
configuration of cells in a battery pack is determined with consideration paid to the
following matters.
(1) The total number of cells is determined from the capacity per cell, the load to be
driven, and the number of hours of operation required.
(2) The maximum discharge current for cells is stipulated; this maximum current, and
the maximum load to be driven, are used to
determine the number of cells to be connected in parallel.
(3) The number of cells to be connected in series is determined referring to the upper
and lower limits to the operating voltage.
Many of the requirements arising from (1), (2) and (3) above conflict with limits placed
on battery size (or shape) and weight. Some compromise between conflicting
requirements must be found.
Due to the ratings of devices used in protective circuitry, at present no more than four
cells may be connected in series.
In considering cell configurations, the efficiency of battery use is highly important.
Batteries have an internal resistance, and when used at large currents losses can be
considerable. Hence lower battery currents are desirable to improve efficiency.
It is also important that the load current pattern be considered. There are cases in which
the average current is relatively low but there are large pulse currents (cellular phones
are one example of such a load), and also cases in which the ratio of the peak current to
the average current is relatively small (as in notebook computers).
42
4-2
Various mechanisms are incorporated into the lithium ion rechargeable battery
cells themselves to ensure safety. Depending on the battery pack configuration and
charge/discharge conditions, certain safety components may be omitted.
(fig.39) Peripheral circuitry (voltage output, current output, microprocessor power
supply, overcharge/overdischarge current detection, FET switch drivers)
Batt
C-FET
D-FET
Fuse
2nd
Overvoltage
Control
Cell 1
Microprocessor
Data
Clock
Peripheral circuitry
(voltage output,
current output,
microcomputer power
supply, overcharge/
overdischarge current
detection, FET switch driver)
Data
Clock
Data/CLK
Cell 2
Cell 3
Cell 4
EEPROM
X1
Batt
Figure32
47
4-2-1
4-2-1
As the charging proceeds, lithium ions are removed from the cathode and the cell
voltage (electromotive force) gradually rises; but if the quantity of lithium ions
reaching the anode exceeds the capacity of the anode to accommodate them,
metallic lithium is deposited on the anode surface. If the amount of precipitated
metallic lithium increases, precipitated metallic lithium grows like branches. It could
penetrate the separator and reach the cathode, resulting in an internal short-circuit.
Moreover, overcharging renders the safety of the cathode active material and
electrolyte down, and induces rapid degradation of the cell capacity, making the cell
unusable. In order to avoid these consequences, a reference voltage is established
and charging is controlled to keep this reference voltage from being exceeded and
prevent overcharging. The protective circuit monitors the voltage of each cell, and
should the cell voltage rise above a preset value the C-FET (FET used for charge
regulation) is turned off, terminating the charging.
4-2-2
4-2-2
Circuits monitor the voltage of each cell. When the cell terminal voltage falls below
a preset value, the D-FET (discharge regulator FET) is turned off, terminating
discharge. This control is necessary because if the voltage falls below the preset
value, the copper foil as the anode current collector material at the anode begins to
be dissolved, and during charging this copper is precipitated on the cathode surface
and causes an internal short-circuit.
4-2-3
Overcurrent regulation
4-2-3
If the battery terminals are short-circuited, a large current flows, destroying the
battery. To prevent this, when a current exceeding a preset value flows, a FET is
turned off.
4-2-4
Temperature regulation
4-2-4
Redundant-protection circuitry
4-2-5
Overcharging must be avoided more than any other mishap. To this end, in addition to
the main circuitry for charge/discharge control, redundant-protection circuitry to detect
overcharging is also provided. When this circuit detects overcharging, it causes a fuse
within the battery to blow, so that the battery can never be used again.
4-2-6
4-2-6
Because battery packs (particularly those intended for use with cellular phones,
camcorders and similar equipment) are compact and lightweight, they will
frequently be carried within purses, handbags and the like. While being so carried,
the metal parts of necklaces or other items may come into contact with both the
positive and negative battery terminals, creating a conductive path between them
and causing the necklace or other item to heat and perhaps melt. ("Chain shorts"
are different from ordinary short-circuits in that the contact resistance or other
resistance limits the current to several amps or so, so that often it is difficult to
distinguish such short-circuits from ordinary discharge currents.) For this reason,
battery packs may be provided with a mechanism and circuit such that battery
discharge is only possible when the battery pack is mounted in the equipment for
which it is intended.
49
4-2-7
circuitry
Other protective
4-2-7
In special cases, or at customer request, battery packs may also incorporate PTCs
device or thermostats.
(positive-characteristic
thermistors)
4-3-1
4-3
4-3-1
Cell operating voltages are from 2.5 V (3.0V for graphite batteries) (remaining
charge 0%) up to 4.2 V (remaining charge 100%). When the voltage falls below 2.5 V,
discharge to the equipment is terminated. In addition, the consumption current of
the internal circuitry is also minimized (power-down).
When the voltage rises above 4.2 V, charging is stopped to ensure safety.
Cell
Battery Pack
Equipment
Charger
Voltages are
typical values
typical
4.25V
Keep
Out
4.2V
Over
charg
ing
Norm
Opera al
tion
Prote
ction
Norm
Oper al
ation
Norm
Ope al
ratio
n
Prote
ction
Sto
Ope p
ratio
n
Fas
Cha t
rgin
g
2.5V
2.3V
Ov
disch er
argin
g
1.5V
0.0V
Keep
Out
Pre
char ging
Sto
Ope p
ratio
n
Figure 33
Circuitry within the battery is operated using the battery's own power. Hence the
consumption current of the circuitry must be kept as small as possible. When a
notebook computer is not being operated on battery power, the battery is put into
sleep mode to minimize current consumption (microprocessor operation is
stopped).
When overcurrents and high temperatures are detected, or when overcharging is
detected, a FET acting as a switch is turned off, or a fuse is blown.
51
5 Charging Procedure
51
5-1
52
5-2
Charge time
Standard charge time for charging cells to their rated capacity is 2.5 hours at a
charging voltage of 4.20 V/cell and charging current of 1C. However, when charging
a battery pack the charging time (until the charging current falls to either
1C/20mA) will vary with the internal impedance of the battery pack and contact
resistance of the battery terminals. The differences in charging time for different
internal impedances and charging currents are indicated in Figures 34 and 35
respectively.
Charging Characteristics
10
Charging Characteristics
Terminal Voltage
Charge8.4V max1500mAmax2.5h23
Charging Current
4
1500mA
Low Internal
Impedance
High Internal
Impedance
2
VoltageV
Charge CurrentA
VoltageV
Charge8.4V max1500mAmax2.5h23
1500mA
Low Charging
Current (1000mA)
0
0
53
Charge Timeh
Figure34
Charge CurrentA
10
0
0
Charge Timeh
Figure35
5-3
53
Precautions in handling
When using lithium ion rechargeable cells in a battery pack, please adhere to the
following usage conditions.
6-1-1
6-1-1
Charging
Discharging
6-1-2
6-1-3
Equipment design
55
62
6-2
6-2-1
6-2-1
6-2-2
Charging
Using the dedicated recharger, please charge the battery within the specified
temperature range of 0 to 45.
Under no circumstances should the battery be reverse-charged (with the battery
connected to the recharger with polarities reversed).
6-2-3
6-2-3 Discharging
Batteries should be discharged in the load equipment within the specified
temperature range of -20 to 60.
Please do not use the batteries as a power supply for equipment other than the
specified load equipment.
6-2-4
6-2-4
Storage
When batteries will not be used for an extended length of time, they should be
discharged, removed from the equipment and stored in a dry, cool place (avoiding
warm places) in order to prevent rusting and degradation of battery performance.
When storing batteries for one year or longer, they should be charged at least once
a year or so in order to prevent overdischarge caused by the protective circuitry.
6-2-5
6-2-5
Other matters
Soiling of battery terminals will worsen electrical contact with the recharger and
the load equipment, and may hinder battery charging. Please use a clean cloth to
wipe away any soiling prior to use.
Batteries have a limited lifetime. When the equipment operation time has
shortened appreciably, the battery should be replaced. Do not dispose of batteries
with ordinary garbage; either dispose of them according to the regulations in your
area, or bring them to a Sony service department.
57
7 Safety Indications
In order to facilitate the safe use of lithium ion rechargeable batteries, below are
summarized, as guidelines for indications and a related checklist, the essentials of the
"Guidelines and Checklist for Indications to Ensure Safe Use of Storage Batteries,"
"Warning Indications to Prevent Shocks to Humans and Damage to Property," and
"Indications for Safety Inspections" to maintain safety, published by the Battery Association
of Japan. Please include any necessary items in the operation manual of load equipment
using these batteries.
71
7-1
Extent of harm
or damage
(not applicable)
Warning
Danger
Warning
Caution
72
7-2
Objects of indications
Indications shall appear on the main units of storage batteries used as power
supplies sold in Japan, on blister packs, product boxes, operation manuals, catalogs,
and other applicable materials, with indications as shown below according to the
danger level. In order to ensure greater safety, please include a consistent
explanation of indications in operation manuals for equipment which uses storage
batteries as a power supply.
Classification
Medium
Main unit
Blister pack
Product box
Operation manual
Catalog etc.
Signal Word
Danger
Warning
Caution
Notes
Indication
required
Indication
optional
59
73
7-3
74
7-4
The types of injury and damage that may arise from misuse of battery packs, how
best to avoid such injury or damage, and what steps to take should such damage or
injury occur, were studied in detail for each category of product use; the following
summarizes indications prompting the user to specific actions to prevent or avoid
such damage or injury.
3. Preparation
for use
1. Limits on
usage
environment
Danger
Level
Caution
2. Limits on
conditions of
use
Danger
1. Request to
read the
operation
manual
Caution
Caution
Danger
61
Danger
Level
4. Restraints
and
prohibitions
relating to
power supply
connections
5. Inspection
of the
product prior
to use
Caution
On using the battery for the first time, if it
appears to be rusted, gives off an odd smell,
gives off heat, or otherwise behaves strangely,
do not use it, but bring it to the store from which
it was purchased.
4. Uses other
than the
intended use
5. Method of
use
2. Requests
made of the
parent or
guardian of
the user
Danger
Caution
When a child is to use the battery, the child's
parent or guardian should explain the contents
of the operation manual to the child. The parent
or guardian should also make sure that the child
is using the battery as explained in the operation
manual.
Warning
The equipment and battery should be placed
out of the reach of children to prevent children
from accidentally swallowing small batteries.
Should a battery be swallowed, immediately
seek medical attention.
Caution
Batteries should be stored out of the reach of
small children. When in use, care should be
taken to ensure that small children cannot
remove batteries from the recharger or the
equipment.
Danger
Danger
Danger
Danger
Warning
Warning
Caution
63
Danger
Level
6. Prohibition
of
modification
and other
special uses
Danger
7. Prohibition
of uses
leading to
degraded
safety
Danger
7. Response to 1. Prohibition
of use in the
abnormal
event of
behavior
faulty or
abnormal
behavior
Warning
2. Measures
to take in the
event of
abnormal
behavior
9. Product
disposal
Warning
Caution
1. Parts to be *Used batteries should have their terminals
covered with tape or other material for insulation
removed
prior to disposal.
65
8-1
8-1-1
8-1-1
The specified indication must appear on battery packs using lithium ion rechargeable
cells. In addition, there are also battery-related requirements in standards for equipment
using battery packs, and these equipment standards must be obeyed.
Example: Caution indication for battery packs used with information
equipment (UL1642 and UL1950 1.7.17)
CAUTION:
A) The battery in the device may present a fire or chemical burn hazard
if mistreated.
B) Do not disassemble, heat above 60C(140F), crush, puncture,
short external contacts or incinerate.
C) Replace battery with (Battery brand name and Model name) only.
D) Use of another battery may present a risk of fire or explosion.
E) Battery pack is suitable for use only with (End product name).
F) Dispose used batteries according to the manufacturer's instructions.
G) Keep away from children.
When all the above indications cannot be included on the battery pack itself, A), B),
and "See owner's manual for safety instructions" should be displayed, and items
from C) to G) should be printed in the operation manual for the battery pack.
8-1-2
8-1-2
Indications similar to those on the battery pack must also appear in the operation
manual for the equipment.
82
8-2
Because there are no provisions for lithium ion rechargeable batteries in CSA and
EN standards, indications should be provided according to requirements for
batteries in the standards for the equipment item 1.7.17.
Example: For information equipment, CSA C22.2 No. 950 and EN60950 are
designed for coordination of standards, and so as with UL certification, French and
German indications should be included.
When there are conditions imposed on indications, such as the application of the
battery pack or the area of the indication, please consult with Sony.
67
9 Glossar y
Safety vent
Secondary battery
Battery that can be reused after it is charged. There are NiCd and Ni-MH rechargeable carbon batteries in addition to
Li-ion rechargeable bttery.
Active material
Separator
Cathode
Anode
Cell
Battery modules
Electrolyte
Energy density
Charge-discharge
cycle
69
Overcharge
Overdischarge
Nominal capacity
Nominal voltage
Self-discharge
US
Prismatic shape
Overall cell
Height (mm)
Cell width (mm)
Cell thickness (mm)
Example
71
UP
UP
Cell size number
Alphabetic symbol (polymer battery)
The meaning of cell size number
Discharege capacity
Initial capacity
Remaining capacity
Rated capacity
Memory effect
0.2CmA discharge
current
Leakage of electrolyte
73
10 Sales Office
Head Office
Sony Corporation
Electric Device Marketing Dept.
Core Technology & Network Company
Device Dept., Computer Network Marketing Div.
Phone:03-5435-3279 Fax:03-5435-3327
Mobile & IT Marketing Dept., Mobile & Public Marketing Div.
Phone:03-5435-3277 Fax:03-5435-3328
Visual Marketing Dept., Home AV Marketing Div.
Phone:03-5435-3295 Fax:03-5435-3463
Osaki West Technology Center
Gate City Osaki West Tower, 1-11-1, Osaki Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo, 141-0032 Japan
Sales Office
United States
Sony Electronics Inc., USA
Address: 3300 Zanker Road, M/S:SJ2A12, San Jose, CA95134-1901 U.S.A
Telephone: +1-408-955-4054
*Regarding inquiries about batteries and battery packs for Sony consumer products available in the
U.S., please contact Customer Information shown below.
Voice: +1-800-488-7669
Fax: +1-941-768-7790
Taiwan
Sony Taiwan Limited Li-ion Battery Marketing Company Taiwan
Address: Chia Hsin Sec. Bldg., 6 Floor, Rm 611, 96 Chung Shan N. RD., Sec.2, Taipei,
Taiwan R.O.C.
Telephone: +886-2-2541-1080
Korea
Lithium-ion Battery Team
Electronic Devices Marketing Korea
(A Division Company of Sony Korea Corp.)
Address: 34F, ASEM Tower, World Trade Center, 159-1, Samsung-Dong, Kangnam-Ku,
Seoul, 135-798 Korea
Telephone: +82-2-6001-4268 (Marketing)
Telephone: +82-2-6001-4252 (Technology Center)
U.K.
Sony Semiconductor & Devices Europe
Sony Core Technology & Network Company Europe
(A Division of Sony United Kingdom Limited)
Address: The Heights, Brooklands, Weybridge, Surrey KT13 OXW, U.K.
Telephone: +44-1932-816-000
China
Sony China Shanghai Office Battery Products Division
Address: 43F HSBC Tower, 101 Yin Cheng East Road,
Pudong New Area, Shanghai 200120, P.R. China
Telephone: +86-21-6841-4893
Denmark
Sony Semiconductor & Devices Europe, Copenhagen Office
Address: Hoersvinget 1, Postbox 154, DK-2630 Taastrup, Denmark
Telephone: +45-4355-7000
France
Semiconductor & Devices Europe, Paris Office
Address: 26 rue Morel, 92110 CLICHY, France
Telephone: +33-1-5590-3663
Germany
Semiconductor & Devices Europe, Munich Office
Address: Max-Planck-Strasse 8, D-85609 Aschheim Dornach, Munich, Germany
Telephone: +44-89-945820
75