Lithium batteries & packs Li-polymer overtakes Li-ion in growth

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1 Lithium batteries & packs Li-polymer overtakes Li-ion in growth Growing adoption in mobile phones and other portable electronics is spurring the penetration of Li-polymer in China s lithium batteries and packs industry. More suppliers are switching to this chemistry, which is thinner, lighter and safer to use than dominant Li-ion models. Declining costs as a result of maturing technologies are also encouraging companies to make the shift. Some expect Li-polymer prices to close the gap with its rival by Despite the ongoing migration, Li-ion variants will continue to rule global output for their improved materials and performance. DLG Battery (Shanghai) Co. Ltd predicts the type will remain particularly strong in the laptop sector. Across the categories, R&D is directed toward enhancing performance, capacity and safety. Companies are likewise reducing the discharge rate while extending service life. More suppliers are exploring new technologies, materials and designs to match features-laden, power-hungry smartphones, laptops and other portable digital devices, RC toys, industrial instruments and electric vehicles. While a slowdown in global mobile phone manufacture has affected sales of batteries for handsets, it has shifted emphasis to other applications, including EVs, electric bikes, laptops and power tools. The first, in particular, is increasingly seen as a major catalyst. The sector will reach $30 billion in the next five years, growth that could easily exceed the mobile phone lithium batteries market. Carmarkers worldwide have announced plans to boost production of lithium battery-powered EVs. All these are expected to spur a new round of investment in and upgrades of facilities. As more makers enter the line, competition will intensify. Overall projections for the industry are rosy. China s 2010 output of lithium batteries and packs is estimated by the China Industrial Association of Power Sources at 2.3 billion units or 40 percent of global supply. The country has more than 150 Li-ion and 50 Li-polymer battery manufacturers, and over 500 pack specialists. Most makers are based in coastal areas. More than 80 percent is located in the Pearl River Delta region, which accounts for two-thirds of China s aggregate yield. The provinces of Guangdong, Jiangsu, Zhejiang and Hubei are the major sourcing hubs. Li-polymer vs Li-ion The two chemistries generally adopt the same anode and cathode materials but differ in the electrolytes used. Li-polymer is held in an organic solvent, and Li-ion in a solid polymer composite. The former s slim feature is its biggest attraction as it can be made into any shape and capacity to suit a variety of applications. Further, leaner models translate to lower manufacturing costs. The product is assembled either by winding or stacking. The casing is usually aluminum film, which makes it thinner than the steel shells used in Li-ion batteries. A 3.6V/400mAh capacity lithium battery can be as compact as 0.5mm and bent to a maximum of 90 degrees. Li-polymer models, which employ glue-type electrodes, do not have leakage problems. To achieve elevated voltages, a series connection of cells is necessary for Li-ion batteries, whereas Li-polymer applies multistacking within a single cell. The latter also uses high molecule materials as anode, which can increase power density by more than 50 percent. The Li-polymer battery entered commercial production and application only in 1999, and yet growth has surpassed that of Li-ion counterparts. In 2002, the former shared 7 percent of the global lithium battery market. The figure climbed to 10 percent in 2005 and is forecast to hit 30 percent by year-end. In China, annual sales are estimated to reach 30 percent this Formosa Electronic Industries Inc. (Taiwan) Model: FI-M01 Description: Car Li-ion battery; battery management system with overcharge, -discharge and short-circuit protection, cell balancing circuit; water-resistant; detachable with independent power button; <3kg; for 24V systems such as electric motorcycles and bikes Formosa Electronic Industries Inc. (Taiwan) Model: Ebook & Tablet Battery Description: Li-polymer battery; 3,250mAh capacity; 3.7V; 66.4x90.55x5.35mm; 66g; for e-book readers, tablet PCs Heter Electronics Group (Hong Kong) Model: 3.3V-110Ah Description: LiFePO 4 battery; 110Ah rated, 108Ah minimum capacity; 3.3V nominal voltage; 50A standard charging/discharging current; <2mohm internal resistance; 92x82x415mm; 4±0.5kg; for electric cars, UPS, and communication, medical and military equipment December

2 year, nearly 10 percent higher than the average increase of Li-ion batteries, an expansion that is forecast to persist in the next two years. Product range China s selections of lithium batteries and packs consist of Li-ion and -polymer models in standard cylindrical and prismatic form factors for both commercial and industrial applications. Mobile phones, laptops, netbooks, mobile Internet devices, digital cameras, MP3/MP4 players, power supplies and tools, RC toys and EVs are the key applications. Companies offer a range of Li-ion cylindrical cells. The series, which dominates production and sales, is available in two main configurations, one with less than 2,000mAh capacity and the other between 2,100 and 2,200mAh. Both have a nominal voltage of 3.7V. The takes up more than 80 percent of makers output of cylindrical types, and is suitable for laptops, digital cameras and recorders, PDAs and personal navigation devices or PNDs. As for prismatic Li-ion batteries, the lineup is broad. Energy storage systems have a usual thickness of 4.2 to 10.5mm, and a width-height range of 30x39 to 44x50mm, although companies also manufacture according to customers specifications. The capacity is generally from 700 to 1,500mAh. Li-ion batteries that adopt LiFePO 4 as anode materials are rising in supply, thanks to growing demand from EVs. The cells made of this chemistry have a high capacity of 2,200 to 2,400mAh. Relevant 12 and 48V packs, in contrast, are available in 3.5, 10, 12, 20, 24 and 150Ah. All models are low-cost, environment-friendly and safe, designed not to explode even when disposed of in fire. They have a high energy density and are more than 95 percent efficient, with a long service time exceeding 2,000 cycles. The operating temperature reaches 60 C. Besides EVs, the main applications are electric bikes, LED street lamps, power tools and communication equipment. Hipower New Energy Group Co. Ltd, a leading LiFePO 4 battery manufacturer, plans to expand output and exports beginning this year. It supplies hybrid car batteries to Germany s top carmakers, and cooperates with the sole US agent of Chang an to provide storage cells for their electric-powered cars in North America. In the Li-polymer battery line, popular models support 250 to 1,500mAh. There are special series below 160mAh or above 1,500mAh, and units with a thickness of 2.9 to 3.8mm. Materials & prices The raw materials for lithium batteries include anode and cathode components, separators and electrodes. Anode inputs, which comprise LiCoO 2, LiMnO 2, lithium manganese nickel and cobalt oxide, and LiFePO 4, are key to the manufacturing process. They determine performance to a large extent, and account for more than 40 percent of the product s cost. At present, LiCoO 2 is the most popular, technologically mature and commercial of all. Graphite and solid carbon are Hong Kong Diverse chemistries, form factors broaden selections Primary and secondary lithium batteries and packs from Hong Kong constitute LiSOCl 2, LiFeS 2 and LiMnO 2 types in cylindrical, button cell and other form factors. Rechargeable variants are likewise available. Aside from mainstream AAA, AA, C, D and button-cell configurations, lithium batteries may be manufactured in custom shapes and sizes. Most makers have the capability to design from the ground up based on buyers specifications. Additional parts such as a plastic outer case, cable, pin and connector can be integrated into the products. The main applications are consumer electronic devices such as portable media players and digital cameras. Laptops, mobile phones and children s toys are other target uses. Only a few Hong Kong makers are developing batteries for electric vehicles due to lack of design and manufacturing experience for the segment. These select enterprises develop mainly LiFePO 4 for light EVs and tools. The territory has about 15 suppliers of primary and secondary lithium batteries and packs. After a stagnant 2009, exports rebounded strongly this year. Outbound deliveries from January to September reached 300 million Li-ion batteries for an aggregate value of $677.8 million, higher by 77 percent over the same period in For primary lithium batteries, 477 million units amounting to $121.5 million were shipped, an increase of 52 percent YoY. Most manufacturers in Hong Kong have in-house R&D teams responsible for keeping product lineups up-todate. This group also works to lower self-discharge rate, extend life span, improve reliability and broaden temperature range. Companies have dedicated crew for QC as well. Heter Electronics Group specializes in LiFePO 4 power batteries and battery packs, Li-ion batteries, ultracapacitors and LiFePO 4 battery materials. It is one of the first global suppliers of LiFe primary batteries in both cylindrical and button shapes. EEMB Co. Ltd provides primary and secondary lithium batteries. Its monthly output of 9 million units comprises LiFePO 4, LiSOCl 2, LiMnO 2 and Li-polymer batteries with 20mAh to 10Ah single-cell capacity. Shun Wo New Power Battery Technology Ltd s lithium power packs were among the first mainland Chinamade batteries to obtain UL listing. The company supplies a range of button-cell variants and LiMnO 2 and Li-polymer packs. Some of its products technical specifications even exceed Japan s JIS C 8512 and IEC standards. Power Glory Battery Tech (HK) Co. Ltd offers 3V LiMnO 2 button cell and cylindrical, 3.6V LiSOCl 2 cylindrical and Li-polymer thin-cell models. China Sourcing Reports December 2010

3 used for the cathode. Representing 5 to 15 percent of total outlay, these are typically sourced locally. Electrodes, contribute 5 to 11 percent to manufacturing expenses. For separators, China suppliers still rely on imports to ensure quality. Eighty percent of the porous sheet comes from abroad. More companies are looking to develop new materials to increase battery power density, especially of those designed for EVs. The current and future targets are 120 and 500Wh/kg. For LiFePO 4 anode inputs, the major R&D themes are consistency, safety and long life span. Besides the last, enterprises are emphasizing low cost, high power density and stability for LiMn2O 4 requirement. They are eyeing increased density and safety, extended service life and reduced outlay for Li 4 Ti 5 O 12 materials. Many suppliers are likewise conducting research on hybrid capacitors and battery structure and technology. Global battery makers are reportedly accelerating fundamental studies on batteries with a power density exceeding 500Wh/kg. These include solid state, and lithium metal, sulfur and air batteries, with a market launch slated for Suppliers forecast lower quotes once production goes commercial scale. According to Hipower, the average price of LiFePO 4 Li-ion batteries dropped by 15 percent this year and will keep sliding in coming months. In 2015, quotes are estimated to drop to $ per kilowatt-hour, making it possible for such batteries to enter railroad traffic, industrial, solar energy and wind power applications. Lithium power batteries are also expected to penetrate buildings and residential facilities. Model: 12V20Ah LiFePO 4 Battery Description: LiFePO 4 battery; high peak power capacity; lightweight; saves 5% oil; quick startup; >6 years life span; maintenance-free; normal startup under high or low temperature (-20 to 70 C); for automotive SLI batteries Taiwan Broadening applications, customized services Li-ion and -polymer batteries are mainstream in Taiwan. Supply of the latter, however, is projected to face a shortage because of high demand from Apple. The island s makers also offer LiFePO 4 batteries for cars, electric vehicles and hybrid EVs, solar and wind power, and other energy storage systems. These charge fast, are easy to maintain, and have a long life span of between 10 and 20 years. The weight is one-third of leadacid batteries with the same power capacity. Companies likewise provide customized services for industrial PCs, UPS and special applications. for such devices differ in voltage and capacity from those meant for computer, communications and consumer electronic products. R&D work is geared toward addressing safety concerns and adding value. Industrial Technology Research Institute, in fact, has developed the self-terminated olygomers with hyperbranched architecture. This nanograde high-molecular material is integrated into lithium batteries and automatically forms a protective film to help avoid fires or explosions caused by a short circuit. Powertronics Co. Ltd has designed a battery with UL94V-0-rated fireresistant PE casing and power capacity indication in displays. The industry in Taiwan is thriving, thanks to continued demand from 3C products and renewed interest in car electronics. EV batteries and power cells, in particular, are seen as very promising, with a market forecast to boom and enter volume manufacture in five years time. The sector will grow from $10 billion in 2008 to $23 billion in 2020, with the EV industry as its major driving force, according to Daiwa Institute of Research. The firm predicts car batteries will contribute 30 percent to shipments within a decade. Mobile phones are likewise spurring exports, but tablet PC and e-book reader applications are expected to become key stimuli in the next 12 months. According to Market Intelligence & Consulting Institute, exports of the second category will reach 35 million units by end-2011, 80 percent of which will be ipad. Suppliers of lithium batteries and packs in Taiwan consist of big manufacturers and SMEs that cater to the electric motorcycles, bikes and EV sectors. Power cells are sourced from mainland China, Japan and South Korea. Model: 3.2V Primary Lithium Battery Description: LiFePO 4 battery; 3C nominal, 5 to 8C burst current output; 1/3 lighter than sealed lead-acid batteries; reliable power with high constant voltage; 2,000 cycles; maintenance-free Model: 72V100Ah LiFePO 4 Battery Pack Description: LiFePO 4 battery pack; 100Ah capacity; 72V nominal voltage; zero memory effect; maintenance-free; 340x660x292mm; 123.5g; for UPS, electric vehicles and tools, solar lights and regenerators, telecom devices, aerospace toys, miner lamps December

4 Model: LiFePO 4 Battery Description: LiFePO 4 battery pack; 100Ah capacity; 3V normal voltage; <3mohm inner resistance; zero memory effect; high C-rate discharge, fast charging; maintenance-free; 57x160x229mm; 3.5kg Power Glory Battery Tech (HK) Co. Ltd (Hong Kong) Model: CR123A MOQ: 1,000 units Delivery: 10 days Description: Primary LiMnO 2 battery; 1,400mAh nominal capacity; 2,000mA maximum continuous, 3,000mA maximum pulse current; -40 to 70 C operating temperature; hermetically sealed; spiral internal construction; 17x34.5mm; 20g Powertronics Co. Ltd (Taiwan) Model: IPC Li-Polymer Battery Description: Li-polymer battery; 5,000mAh capacity; 11.1V; 3S1P battery pack; UL94V-0- rated; for industrial PCs Powertronics Co. Ltd (Taiwan) Model: Flashlight Li-Ion Battery Description: Li-ion battery; 5,200mAh capacity; 11.1V; 3S3P battery pack; supports remaining power capacity indicator in displays; for diving flashlights Model: mAh Li-Polymer Battery Delivery: 15 days Description: Li-polymer battery; 1,800mAh capacity; 3.7V; 4.2/2.75V charging/ discharging voltage; 500 cycles; 4x50x80mm; for MP3/MP4 and portable DVD players, laptops, PDAs, Bluetooth devices; CE, RoHS; available in other sizes and capacity Model: mAh Li-Polymer Battery Description: Li-polymer battery; 50 to 15,000mAh capacity; 3 to 3.7V; 500 to 1,000 cycles; for mobile phones, laptops, DVD and MP3 players, PDAs, electric bikes, miner lamps; available in cylindrical, polymer and button-cell Li-ion configurations China Sourcing Reports December 2010

5 Model: Li-Ion Battery (123A 600mAh) Delivery: 15 days Description: Li-ion battery; 600mAh capacity; 3.6V; 500 to 1,000 cycles; low internal resistance; 17x34.5mm; 20g; for mobile phones, laptops, DVD and MP3 players, PDAs, electric bikes, miner lamps; available in polymer and button-cell Li-ion configurations Model: Li-Ion Rechargeable Battery Delivery: 15 days Description: Li-ion battery; 50 to 150mAh capacity; 3 to 3.7V; 500 to 1,000 cycles; for mobile phones, laptops, DVD and MP3 players, PDAs, electric bikes, miner lamps; available in cylindrical and button-cell Li-ion configurations Shun Wo New Power Battery Technology Ltd (Hong Kong) Model: PL MOQ: 5,000 units Delivery: 14 days Description: Li-polymer battery; 670mAh capacity; 3.7V; 8x20.5x45.5mm December

6 Contact Details Lithium batteries & packs Company Business contact /URL Phone/fax Address DLG Battery (Shanghai) Co. Ltd LV Zhenguo (86-21) (86-21) Jinqian Road, Guangmin, Fengxian, Shanghai, China EEMB Co. Ltd CHENG Dora (852) (852) Unit F Delta House, 3 On Yiu Street, Sha Tin, Hong Kong Formosa Electronic Industries Inc. TAI Renee reneet@feii.com.tw (886-2) (886-2) F 8 Lane 130, Ming Chuan Road, Hsin-Tien, New Taipei City, Taiwan Heter Electronics Group WEI Krystal market01@heter.biz (852) (852) E2A 14F Hoi Bun Industrial Building, 6 Wing Yip Street, Kwun Tong, Kowloon, Hong Kong Hipower New Energy Group Co. Ltd HE Lili info@hipowergroup.com hipowergroup.co (86-755) (86-755) F Yangguang Mansion, Beijing Road, Jiaonan, Qingdao, Shandong, China Power Glory Battery Tech (HK) Co. Ltd LEUNG Jeremy sales@omnergy.com.hk (852) (852) E2B 14F Hoi Bun Industrial Building, 6 Wing Yip Street, Kwun Tong, Kowloon, Hong Kong Powertronics Co. Ltd CHANG Gary gary.chang@powertronics.com.tw (886-2) (886-2) F Section 3, Beixin Road, Xindian, New Taipei City, Taiwan Shenzhen Pkcell Battery Co. Ltd MI Ni pkcell@pkcell.net (86-755) (86-755) F Coastal Era Building, Shennan Road, Nanshan, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China Shun Wo New Power Battery Technology Ltd WU Rex info@shunwo.com.hk (852) (852) Unit 9 15F Chevalier Commercial Center, 8 Wang Hoi Road, Kowloon Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong Simplo Co. Ltd CHANG Brenda brenda_chang@mail.simplo.com.tw (886-3) (886-3) Section 2, Pa Teh Road, Hukou, Hsinchu, Taiwan China Sourcing Reports December 2010