LFP/NCA

A comparison of batteries with different cathode types highlights the advantages and disadvantages of the various materials. GAIA currently uses two different cathode materials in its cells, depending on the actual application. Lithium nickel cobalt oxide Li(Ni,Co)O2, or NCA, is mainly used in cells where the key criteria are high specific energy and long calendar life. The diminished safety of these cathodes can be partly compensated by suitable intelligent battery management systems and innovative cell design. NCA cells are commonly used in military and aerospace applications and can also be found in submarines, solar-powered ships and small-series cars.

Lithium iron phosphate cells (LiFePO4), or LFP, have been developed only lately but have already reached series production stage. There is, however, some scope for further development, in particular as regards specific energy. Thanks to their high intrinsic safety, fast charging and long cycle life, LFP cells are expected to become the number one cell type for electric and hybrid vehicles of the future. The voltage balance of 3.2 V per cell is also ideal for new applications such as lithium ion starter batteries, which are produced and tested by GAIA and will enter series production in 2010. For its products, GAIA uses only licensed iron phosphate from SüdChemie in order to avoid any problems regarding patents that could affect companies marketing and using the cells and batteries. GAIA thus offers its customers not only technically safe products but also protection from litigation.