What are lithium ion batteries?

The world is moving towards newer technology, Higher efficiency products. Lithium-ion batteries power the lives of millions of people each day. From laptops and cell phones to hybrids and electric cars, this technology is growing in popularity due to its light weight, high energy density, and ability to recharge. A battery is made up of an anode, cathode, and two current collectors (positive and negative). The anode and cathode store the lithium. The electrolyte carries positively charged lithium ions from the anode to the cathode. The movement of the lithium ions creates free electrons in the anode which creates a charge at the positive current collector. The electrical current then flows from the current collector through a device being powered (cell phone, solar inverter, computer, etc.) to the negative current collector. The separator blocks the flow of electrons inside the battery.