Based on experience, we all know that the performance of lithium batteries is far better than lead-acid batteries, so the rise of lithium batteries is gradually a big trend. But the type of lithium battery is ever-changing, different types of lithium batteries, their characteristics and advantages and disadvantages are not the same. 

This difference is mainly due to their different chemical composition and composition structure. Nowadays, choosing a battery we need is something we should think about. LFP and NMC batteries are two popular types of lithium batteries. Here are some comparisons so that you can find a more suitable battery for you.

Composition and structure of LFP and NMC batteries:

LFP batteries are secondary batteries composed of lithium iron phosphate as the cathode material, graphite as the anode material, and a solid electrolyte and diaphragm.

The cathode material of NMC battery is made of three compounds of lithium cobaltate, lithium nickelate and lithium manganate mixed in a certain proportion, and usually graphite is also used as the anode material.

Energy density of LFP and NMC batteries:

Energy density is the amount of energy a battery holds relative to its weight.

The energy density of LFP battery is generally 110~160Wh/Kg, and the energy density of NMC battery is generally 160~210Wh/Kg, and the energy density of NMC battery is significantly higher than that of LFP battery.

The high energy density makes it possible to store more energy under the same battery volume, which provides a guarantee for long time function. When storing the same amount of energy, NMC batteries are smaller in size, which saves space and the cost of using them is relatively low.

However, the high density of NMC batteries also means that they are less safe, so they need to be considered for use.

Cycle life of LFP and NMC batteries:

The lithium battery family is known for its long life, but the cycle life of different lithium batteries varies greatly.

LFP batteries have a cycle life of about 3,000 to 7,000 cycles and a service life of up to 8 to 10 years. NMC batteries have a cycle life of about 1,000 to 2,500 cycles and a service life of usually 4 to 6 years. Obviously, the service life of LFP batteries is even twice as long as that of NMC batteries. There is no need to replace batteries frequently, which greatly saves costs.

Depth of discharge of LFP and NMC batteries:

Depth of discharge refers to the extent to which a battery can be discharged under healthy conditions. For example, a battery with a depth of discharge of 70% indicates that the health condition of the battery will deteriorate when the charge level is below 30%.

LFP batteries have a depth of discharge of up to 100%, which means that they can be fully utilized when the battery is in good health, and NMC batteries have a depth of discharge of about 75% to 90%, which is also very high, but slightly less so than LFP batteries.

Stability of LFP and NMC batteries at high temperatures:

NMC batteries contain cobalt, an element that allows them to withstand high temperatures and remain stable. LFP batteries are made up of lithium iron phosphate, which is relatively stable chemically and also withstands high temperatures well. However, when NMC batteries are exposed to high temperatures, it may lead to the release of oxygen and cause an explosion, while LFP batteries do not release oxygen when in use, so the safety coefficient is higher.

Stability of LFP and NMC batteries at low temperatures:

At sub-zero temperatures, batteries often fail to operate because the chemical reactions within them cannot take place. lithium-nickel-cobalt-manganese-oxide (LNCMO) in NMC batteries performs poorly at sub-zero temperatures, and LFP batteries perform poorly at low temperatures as well, but they are often equipped with a BMS (Battery Management System), which heats up the batteries at low temperatures to allow the chemical reactions inside them to take place correctly.

Voltage delivery of LFP and NMC batteries:

LFP batteries have an average voltage delivery of 3.7V, while NMC batteries have an average voltage delivery of 3.2V.

NMC cells are more suitable for applications requiring high power output.

Manufacturing cost of LFP and NMC batteries:

NMC batteries are expensive because their manufacture requires nickel, cobalt, manganese and other precious metals or rare materials, and the production of high nickel products on the process of environmental requirements of the harsh, more costly. LFP batteries in the main components of phosphorus, iron, in the earth’s abundant resources, so the price is low, do not have to worry about the cost of the problem.

LFP batteries and NMC batteries in terms of environmental protection:

NMC batteries use cobalt and nickel as electrode materials, while cobalt and nickel are prone to cause serious environmental pollution, such as soil erosion, loss of biodiversity, etc. LFP batteries do not contain heavy metals such as cobalt, lead, etc., which is friendly to the environment. Putting them into daily use can fulfill the concept of green life.

Summary:

According to the differences between LFP and NMC batteries in terms of energy density, cycle life, manufacturing cost, stability, etc., they have their own advantages and disadvantages, and LFP batteries seem to have more advantages. With different characteristics, the scope of application is also different.

LFP batteries are mainly used in short-distance range and high safety electric vehicles, solar energy storage systems, communication equipment, etc. NMC batteries are mainly used in computers, mobile power, long-distance range electric vehicles, etc. The NMC batteries are mainly used in computers, mobile power, and long-distance range electric vehicles. Just consider all aspects to choose the battery you need most.