Lithium-ion Battery Degradation & Prevention

Lithium-ion batteries are widely used in various electronic devices and two-way radios due to their high energy density and rechargeability. However, over time and with use, these batteries can lose their ability to hold a charge. This phenomenon is commonly referred to as "battery degradation" and can significantly impact the performance of your communication equipment.

Primary Causes of Battery Degradation

Battery degradation can be attributed to several key factors that affect the chemical and physical structure of lithium-ion batteries:

1. Chemical Reactions: Internal reactions cause physical and chemical changes in battery components
2. Lithium Plating: Rapid charging can cause lithium metal buildup on the anode
3. Cycling: Each charge/discharge cycle contributes to wear
4. Temperature: High heat accelerates chemical breakdown
5. Calendar Aging: Degradation occurs even during storage
6. Manufacturing Variability: Not all batteries are created equal
7. Voltage Extremes: Overcharging or deep discharging causes damage

Chemical Processes Behind Degradation

Inside a lithium-ion battery, complex chemical reactions occur during normal operation that gradually reduce its capacity:

The formation of SEI (solid electrolyte interface) and other byproducts reduces electrode effectiveness over time.

Solid Electrolyte Interface (SEI)

The formation of SEI is a natural process that occurs during the first few charge cycles. While it's necessary for battery operation, continued growth of this layer consumes active lithium ions and reduces capacity.

Lithium Plating

During rapid charging or in cold temperatures, lithium ions may plate onto the anode surface instead of properly intercalating. This metallic lithium is permanently lost from the energy storage process and can create dangerous dendrites.

Temperature Impact on Battery Life

Temperature is one of the most significant factors affecting lithium-ion battery longevity:

High Temperatures

Elevated temperatures accelerate all chemical reactions within the battery, including degradation processes. For every 10°C increase above 25°C, the rate of capacity loss approximately doubles.

Low Temperatures

While cold slows chemical degradation, it increases the risk of lithium plating during charging. Performance is also temporarily reduced in cold conditions.

Optimal Charging Practices

How you charge your batteries significantly impacts their long-term health:

Depth of Discharge

Shallow discharges (20-80%) are much less stressful than full cycles. The BP-294 and BP-304A batteries benefit from partial rather than full discharges when possible.

Charge Rate

Slower charging generates less heat and reduces lithium plating risk. While rapid charging is convenient, standard charging is gentler on batteries.

Storage Charge Level

For long-term storage, maintain batteries at 30-50% charge rather than fully charged or depleted.

Prevention Strategies

While all batteries degrade over time, these practices can maximize their useful life:

Periodic Charging Benefits

For stored batteries, periodic charging helps mitigate calendar aging by:

• Preventing deep discharge states
• Maintaining stable SEI layers
• Keeping battery management systems active

For long-term storage, charging every 3-6 months to maintain 30-50% charge is ideal. Modern smart chargers like those in Icom's lineup help automate this process.

Icom Battery Solutions

Icom offers advanced battery technologies and charging solutions designed to maximize performance and lifespan:

Icom's smart charging systems monitor battery health, charge cycles, and temperature to optimize charging patterns. This technology helps prevent overcharging and minimizes stress on battery components.

While lithium-ion batteries will naturally degrade over time, understanding these processes and following best practices can significantly extend their useful life in your two-way radios and other critical communication equipment.