Lithium vs Alkaline batteries, everyone wants to make the right choice for their devices. Batteries are an essential part of our daily lives. From powering up our smartphones to our watches, cars, and lamps, we are surrounded by batteries.
There are a lot of variants and types of batteries that make our lives much easier and more convenient. But which one to choose? We are talking about the two most popular batteries; lithium and alkaline. Portable energy and batteries power up our world, but Lithium vs Alkaline batteries, which one to choose, is the real question.
Before choosing between lithium and alkaline for your device, it is important to understand both variables to make an informed decision. Both have their advantages and disadvantages; both are batteries but with differences. This article will explore Lithium vs Alkaline batteries and which battery to choose for your device.
Alkaline is a primary and dry battery containing no free liquid electrolyte. It derives energy from the reaction between zinc and manganese dioxide. An alkaline battery uses a solid or gel electrolyte that is equipped with an alkaline solution, usually potassium hydroxide.
Following is the chemical reaction that takes place within the alkaline battery:
Zn + 2MnO2 + H2O → Zn(OH)2 + 2MnO(OH) + energy
The zinc in the alkaline battery is the anode (negative electrode), and the manganese dioxide is the cathode (positive electrode). When the battery is connected to a circuit, the electrons flow from the anode to the cathode, creating an electrical current.
Alkaline batteries are known for their longevity and high-energy density. Moreover, they are used in portable electronic devices such as remotes, controls, toys, etc., alkaline batteries for industrial and commercial applications, and devices such as backup power systems, emergency lighting, etc.
Alkaline batteries can maintain a constant voltage over their discharge cycle and provide a power source for a good time. But here is the catch—alkaline batteries are not rechargeable. And they must be disposed of properly if not in use. They can leak, rupture, and can burst in extreme temperatures.
Advantages of Alkaline Battery:
Alkaline batteries are one of the most popular household batteries. Everything is equipped with alkaline batteries, from wall clocks to remote control flashlights. Let’s explore the main advantages of alkaline batteries.
1. Longer shelf life:
One of the core advantages of an alkaline battery is its longevity. Alkaline batteries have a longer shelf life than other types of batteries. You can store it for months and years without the risk of losing their charge.
2. High energy density:
The technical advantage of an alkaline battery is its high energy density. The commercial alkaline battery has an energy of around 65-100 Wh kg-1 and about 120-270 Wh dm-3. They can store more energy in a smaller space than any other type of battery.
3. Usage:
Alkaline batteries are used in several devices. Consider that alkaline batteries surround you—the supremacy of alkaline batteries; toys, torches, remote controls, wall clocks, watches, etc.
4. Cost:
Alkaline batteries are the go-to choice because they are relatively inexpensive and widely available. It is a cost-effective option, hence a preferred choice for many applications.
5. Low self-discharge rate:
Alkaline batteries have a low self-discharge rate.
But what does that mean?
It means that alkaline batteries can hold their charges for longer, even when not in use.
6. Environmentally friendly:
Alkaline batteries, unlike lead-acid batteries, are not dangerous to the environment. They are not harmful and safe for the environment. However, like other batteries, they must be disposed of immediately.
7. Higher reliability:
Alkaline batteries are known for their higher reliability and for providing consistent power output for extended periods.
Disadvantages of Alkaline Battery:
Alkaline batteries have their cons as well. Let’s explore some of the disadvantages of alkaline batteries.
1. Leakage:
Potassium hydroxide in alkaline batteries is liquid, and the internal resistance is incompatible; they can leak if kept in unused devices. Moreover, the leaked liquid can be corrosive, and dangerous to human eyes and skin.
2. Toxic concentration:
The toxic chemicals in alkaline batteries, such as mercury, cadmium, and lead, can cause harm to the environment and human health.
3. Temperature sensitive:
Alkaline batteries are temperature sensitive, and extreme temperature can affect their performance. Extreme hot and cold temperatures may not work for alkaline batteries.
4. Limited power output:
Alkaline batteries have limited power output. They are not suitable for high-powered devices that require a lot of energy.
What is a Lithium Battery?
Lithium batteries also come under the umbrella of rechargeable batteries. It uses lithium ions to transfer energy between the battery electrodes. The ions move from negative to positive electrodes during discharges and back when on charge.
Lithium batteries are quite popular as they can store a large amount of energy in a small size. The discharge rate is also low and can hold energy when not in use. There are various types of lithium batteries, including lithium-ion, lithium polymer, and lithium iron phosphate. Each type of lithium battery has its properties and applications.
Lithium batteries are commonly found in portable electronics, electric vehicles, and renewable energy systems.
Advantages of Lithium Battery:
1. High energy density:
Lithium batteries are known for their high energy density; they store a good amount of energy in a small space.
2. Lightweight:
Lithium batteries are not bulky. Instead, they are lightweight, and this feature makes them ideal to use for portable electronic devices.
3. Quick charging:
Lithium batteries are highly efficient and have a low self-discharge rate; they can hold their charges for a longer period when not in use.
4. Safety:
Lithium batteries are safe to use; there is a minimum risk of explosion or fire.
5. Environment safe:
Lithium batteries are environmentally friendly and do not contain toxic chemicals such as lead or mercury.
Comparison of Lithium vs Alkaline batteries:
Lithium vs Alkaline batteries Both types of batteries have their own set of advantages and disadvantages. Let’s compare both types to make the right choice.
1. Chemistry:
Lithium batteries use an anode as the electrode, and alkaline batteries have zinc and manganese oxide as an anode. However, both types have a carbon and manganese oxide mixture acting as a cathode.
2. Capacity:
Lithium batteries have a higher capacity than alkaline batteries. By comparing both batteries, it is evident that; lithium batteries can store more energy in a smaller size, making them ideal for small devices such as watches and remote controls. At the same time, alkaline batteries are suited for low-drain devices such as radios, toys, etc.
3. Voltage:
Lithium batteries have a nominal voltage of approximately 3.6 to 3.7 volts. Whereas alkaline batteries have a voltage of 1.5 volts. The higher the voltage, the better the battery is for high-drain devices.
4. Shelf-life:
Compared to alkaline batteries, lithium batteries have a longer shelf life. They can last up to ten years without losing energy. On the other hand, alkaline batteries last up to two to five years.
5. Cost:
Lithium batteries are much more expensive than alkaline batteries. However, they are efficient with a high energy density and shelf-life.
Recap:
Lithium vs Alkaline batteries, which type of battery is better? Well, there is no definitive answer to this question. Both alkaline and lithium batteries have their own set of advantages and disadvantages. Alkaline batteries are cheaper and widely available but have a shorter lifespan. On the other hand, lithium batteries are expensive but have a longer lifespan. The choice between the two batteries highly depends upon the user’s and device’s needs and preferences.
FAQ’s:
Lithium Vs. Alkaline battery, which one is better?
Well, it depends upon the needs and preferences of the user. LifePO4 batteries are much more expensive than alkaline batteries but with high-energy density and shelf-life.
Why do lithium batteries last longer than alkaline?
Lithium batteries last longer than alkaline batteries because of the material used in the production. A lithium battery consists of lithium ions that constantly move between the electrodes.
What is the energy density of a lithium battery?
Lithium batteries have a high energy density as compared to alkaline batteries. A lithium battery has an energy density of around 100-265 Wh/kg)
How to tell if a battery is lithium or alkaline?
Well, it is quite easier to check. Just look at the label or markings on the battery. If it says, ‘LI’ it means that it is a lithium battery. However, if it says Alkaline; then it is an alkaline battery.
