Showing 10 of 11 articles
Cell Types & Chemistry
At what temperature does a battery become a bomb? The answer depends entirely on the cathode chemistry. In this safety analysis, we compare the breakdown thresholds of LCO, NMC, and LFP, explain why Oxygen release is the key to inextinguishable fires, and how to design packs that fail safely.
Cell Types & Chemistry
You see a 280Ah LiFePO4 cell for $200 from a US distributor, and the "same" cell for $80 on AliExpress. What is the catch? In this investigative guide, we expose the supply chain of "Grade B" cells, decode the QR code scratching practices, and teach you how to test if your bargain batteries are safe for storage or just expensive paperweights.
Cell Types & Chemistry
Harvesting 18650s from old laptops, modem packs, and medical devices is a rite of passage for many DIYers. It is the cheapest way to build a massive battery bank, but it comes with significant risks. In this safety guide, we outline the rigorous testing protocols required to filter out "heater cells" and ensure your second-life powerwall doesn't become a fire hazard.
Cell Types & Chemistry
Moving away from liquid electrolytes is the holy grail of battery technology. But between the press releases and the laboratory prototypes, what is actually real? In this deep analysis, we explore the challenges of dendrite formation, the rise of semi-solid electrolytes, and a realistic timeline for when solid-state tech will reach the DIY market.
Cell Types & Chemistry
The datasheet is the only source of truth in a market flooded with counterfeits. In this masterclass, we dissect the official specification sheets of two legendary 18650 cells to teach you how to read discharge curves, understand thermal limits, and choose the right cell for high-drain vs. high-capacity applications.
Cell Types & Chemistry
Lithium Titanate Oxide (LTO) is the chemistry that laughs at abuse. With a cycle life of 20,000+, the ability to charge in 6 minutes, and functionality at -30°C, it seems perfect. So why isn't everyone using it? In this engineering deep dive, we explore the pros, cons, and specific use cases of this exotic chemistry.
Cell Types & Chemistry
Lithium is expensive, geopolitical, and scarce. Sodium is cheap, ubiquitous, and available in every ocean. Sodium-Ion batteries have moved from the lab to the production line. We test the first generation of Na-Ion cells to see if their cold-weather performance and safety features make them the new king of stationary storage.
Cell Types & Chemistry
Choosing a battery chemistry is only half the battle. You must also choose the package it comes in. In this engineering breakdown, we compare the mechanical rigidity of cylinders, the packing density of prismatics, and the raw power of pouches to help you decide which form factor suits your build.
Cell Types & Chemistry
Safety vs. Density. 3000 cycles vs. 800 cycles. The battle between Lithium Iron Phosphate and Nickel Manganese Cobalt is the most important decision in your system design. In this deep dive, we analyze the bond structures, thermal runaway thresholds, and discharge curves to help you decide which chemistry belongs in your garage.
Cell Types & Chemistry
When Tesla switched from the 18650 to the 21700 format for the Model 3, it signaled a massive shift in the industry. But is bigger always better? In this comprehensive engineering analysis, we break down the volumetric efficiency, thermal dissipation challenges, and current density differences between these two titans to help you choose the right cell for your next project.
