Alternative to Hybrid Supercapacitor: LTO Batteries
Hybrid supercapacitors, also known as lithium-ion capacitors, offer a combination of the properties of electric double-layer capacitors (EDLCs) and lithium-ion batteries for better performance and safety. They are commonly used in applications where higher energy density, higher voltage, and lower self-discharge is required. Hybrid supercapacitors can meet these requirements and overcome common problems associated with lithium-ion batteries, such as thermal runaway and short cycle life.
Lithium titanate-oxide (LTO) batteries, like hybrid supercapacitors, also combine the best qualities of ELDCs and lithium-ion batteries but with one significant difference. LTO batteries use lithium titanate as the active anode material as opposed to carbon-based anodes found in hybrid supercapacitors. The lithium titanate reduces internal resistance which improves battery life, and increases energy density. LTO batteries have energy densities that are approximately two times that of a hybrid supercapacitor.
Nichicon produces LTO batteries that can be used as a alternative to hybrid supercapacitors in applications where high volumetric efficiency is required. Our LTO batteries combine the best features of lithium-ion batteries and supercapacitors such as higher energy density, rapid charge/ discharge, long cycle life and safety.
What is a Hybrid Supercapacitor?
A hybrid supercapacitor is like a standard supercapacitor that combines electric double layer capacitor (EDLC) construction and lithium-ion battery technology. Hybrid supercapacitors have a higher operating voltage, higher capacitance, and have a higher energy density than supercapacitors with lower self-discharge and standby current. They feature a graphite anode laced with lithium and use a different type of electrolyte.
LTO batteries have similar characteristics to hybrid supercapacitors as they also incorporate lithium-ion battery technology. LTO batteries use a lithium titanate oxide anode, and reduces electrochemical reactions causing an increase in the solid electrolyte interphase (SEI).
The following are the main characteristics of hybrid supercapacitors compared to LTO batteries:
Life Cycle
Hybrid supercapacitors have a long lifecycle like traditional supercapacitors because of their ability to charge and discharge hundreds of thousands of times. LTO batteries also have a long lifespan featuring tens of thousands of charge/ discharge lifecycles, but the lower internal resistance reduces electrolyte decomposition for improved lifecycle performance.
Operating Temperatures
Hybrid supercapacitors and LTO batteries can operate effectively over a wide temperature range. Hybrid supercapacitors have a temperature range of -25°C to +70°C with voltage derating, while LTO batteries operate at full rated voltage over a temperature ranging from -30°C and up to +80°C.
Energy Density
Hybrid supercapacitors have an energy density that is 5 times higher than the energy density of a standard supercapacitor. Our high energy density LTO batteries contain 10 times the energy of a traditional supercapacitor of similar size.
Power Density
LTO batteries and hybrid supercapacitors have fast charge/ discharge times which allows them to have high power densities. Both options can be used in applications that require high power density.
Safety and Sustainability
Our LTO batteries have undergone testing for overvoltage, over discharge, short circuit, and puncture tests for safety. They do not experience thermal runaway when a short circuit occurs. LTO batteries can operate in harsh conditions and temperatures with very low risk of ignition or explosion.
Our LTO batteries are also environmentally responsible and comply with international environmental requirements.
Are LTO Batteries an Alternative for Hybrid Supercapacitors?
LTO batteries can be used in the same applications as hybrid supercapacitors as they share many of the same characteristics. Nichicon’s LTO batteries merge the top qualities of Li-Ion batteries and supercapacitors. They offer fast charge and discharge capabilities, while providing twice the energy density. LTO batteries have a steady stable output voltage compared to hybrid supercapacitors.
Contact Nichicon
LTO batteries from Nichicon have a low internal resistance similar to hybrid supercapacitors which results in a longer life, high energy density, and superior charge/discharge capabilities. Call Nichicon or talk to a distributor or sales rep in your area to learn more.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONs
The lithium titanate battery (LTO) shares many characteristics with the lithium-ion battery. One difference is the LTO anode. An LTO battery uses lithium titanate oxide, while a lithium-ion battery uses carbon. By using lithium titanate, the battery has a significant performance improvement.
The SLB is a battery with long leads, just like a standard capacitor. The leaded profile allows for soldering directly to the circuit board using hand soldering or a select solder technique. Lithium Titanate batteries require an additional mounting bracket or holder placed on a circuit board. The Nichicon SLB (LTO) take less board space allowing them to be used in very compact or densely populated circuit boards.
LTO batteries are safer; they have an extremely small risk of ignition if there is a short. The SLB, Nichicon’s LTO battery, has superior charge and discharge capabilities, such as a 20C charge rate. Even higher rates are possible with pulsed discharges, like those used in telecommunications.
‘The SLB can withstand up to 25,000 charge/discharge cycles and have a lower cold temperature rating than a lithium-ion battery. And its low internal resistance allows energy harvesters to charge with weak currents without loss. They will not ignite if a short occurs. In addition to the advantages previously mentioned, the SLB comes in aluminum electrolytic case styles and size.
LTO batteries provide a substantial increase in capacity and demonstrate minimal self-discharge, distinguishing them from electric double-layer capacitors and enabling prolonged discharge. Remarkably, smaller rechargeable LTO batteries offer an impressive 20-30-fold increase in energy density compared to equivalently sized electric double-layer capacitors. Leveraging this significant advantage, our LTO batteries present a viable alternative to electric double-layer capacitors, delivering consistent power output over extended periods.
Our LTO batteries stand out in terms of their rapid charging, discharging, and extended lifespan, surpassing the capabilities of typical lithium-ion batteries while ensuring enhanced safety. Conventional lithium-ion rechargeable batteries face difficulties in achieving high power discharge, but our LTO batteries effortlessly handle this challenge with exceptional charge/discharge performance and remarkably fast charging times. The ability of LTO batteries to charge rapidly makes them ideal for devices that require quick charging intervals or scenarios. Unlike lithium-ion batteries LTO batteries can also be charged with weaker or low charging currents.