Do Lithium-Ion Batteries Degrade if Not Used? Here’s What You Need to Know

Lithium-ion batteries have become the go-to power source for a wide array of devices, from smartphones and laptops to electric vehicles. Given their prevalence in our daily lives, understanding how to care for these batteries is crucial, especially when it comes to their longevity. A common question among users is: Do lithium-ion batteries degrade if they are not used? In this article, we will explore the factors that contribute to battery degradation, the effects of storage, and tips for maintaining battery health.

Understanding Lithium-Ion Battery Chemistry

Before we dive into degradation, it’s important to grasp the basic chemistry behind lithium-ion batteries. These batteries store energy through a chemical reaction involving lithium ions. When a battery discharges, lithium ions move from the anode (negative side) to the cathode (positive side) and vice versa during charging. This cycle of charge and discharge is what powers our devices.

The Concept of Self-Discharge

One of the inherent characteristics of all batteries, including lithium-ion, is the process known as self-discharge. Self-discharge refers to the natural loss of charge that occurs even when a battery is not in use. For lithium-ion batteries, this typically falls in the range of 1-5% per month, depending on factors like temperature and the battery’s age.

This means that if you leave a lithium-ion battery sitting idle for an extended period, it will gradually lose its charge, potentially falling into a low state of charge. Storing a lithium-ion battery in a discharged state can lead to irreversible capacity loss.

Factors Influencing Degradation

While lithium-ion batteries do degrade over time, several factors can accelerate this process—even when they are not in active use. Here are some key aspects to consider:

Temperature Sensitivity

Lithium-ion batteries are particularly sensitive to temperature. Storing a battery in high temperatures can speed up chemical reactions inside, leading to quicker degradation. Ideally, you should store batteries at a cool, dry place, with temperatures between 20°C (68°F) and 25°C (77°F).

State of Charge

The state of charge at which a lithium-ion battery is stored can also impact its health. Research shows that storing a battery at a full charge can lead to stress and degradation over time. The best practice is to store lithium-ion batteries at around a 40% to 60% charge level for optimal longevity.

Age

Even if a lithium-ion battery is unused, it will still degrade over time simply due to its chemical composition. Most lithium-ion batteries have a lifespan marked in charge cycles (typically 300-500 cycles), but they can also lose capacity as they age, leading to reduced overall performance.

Tips for Storing Lithium-Ion Batteries

To maximize the lifespan of your lithium-ion batteries, consider the following best practices for storage:

Charge to an Appropriate Level

Before putting your battery away for an extended period, charge it to about 40% to 60%. This will help minimize stress on the battery cells and prevent capacity loss.

Keep Them Cool

Store your batteries in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or heat sources. Avoid garages or attics during hot seasons, as the elevated temperatures can be detrimental to battery health.

Check Periodically

It’s a good idea to check on your stored batteries occasionally. If you notice that they’ve lost charge, recharge them back to the 40% to 60% level to maintain optimal health.

Avoid Full Discharge

Try not to let your lithium-ion batteries fully discharge during storage. If a battery drops too low in voltage, it can enter a state of “deep discharge,” making it difficult or impossible to charge later.

Use Quality Chargers

When charging your lithium-ion batteries, make sure to use the chargers recommended by the manufacturer. Using cheap or subpar chargers can wear down the battery quicker than necessary.

Conclusion

So, do lithium-ion batteries degrade if not used? Absolutely, they do! Although they can still be useful for a considerable time without being actively used, neglecting proper storage can lead to a reduced lifespan and overall performance. By following the appropriate storage guidelines, you can preserve the lifespan of your batteries, ensuring that they deliver optimal performance when you do finally need them. Remember to regularly check your batteries and maintain them in a cool and partially charged state, and you’ll extend their life considerably.