|
Under standard test conditions, most LiPo batteries last about 400 full charge cycles before losing 20% of their capacity. This means that they could be half-charged about 800 times with the same loss. They also wear-out just sitting on the shelf over a several-year period. They store best at 50% charge. LiPos stored fully charged can lose 20% or more of their capacity in a year; when stored @ 50%, the loss is more like 4%. Depending on construction and chemistry details, they can be charged at up to 3C (20-minutes to full charge) but the standard charge rate is 1C (one hour to full charge).
LiIo batteries, such as used in the GM Volt can be charged at very high rates (I heard of 40C!) without harm. They have a long life, perhaps 1000 full charges. They weigh about twice an equivalent LiPo.
A Stanford research scientist announced, a couple of years ago, that the capacity of given-sized LiPo cells could be increased 10 times. These cells depend on surface chemistry and he found a way to increase the surface area 10 times. He stated that such up-rated batteries could see production within a few years -- Im waiting.
Joe
|