Lithium is a soft, silvery-white alkali metal and the lightest metal on the periodic table. Its low atomic mass and high electrochemical potential allow it to store a significant amount of energy relative to its weight. These unique properties make lithium an ideal component for high-performance energy storage solutions and various specialized chemical compounds.
Powering Portable Consumer Electronics
Everyday devices rely heavily on the energy density provided by lithium-ion batteries. This technology allows manufacturers to create thin, light, and powerful gadgets that operate for extended periods between charges.
Lithium-ion cells are used in smartphones, laptop computers, and tablet devices to meet the demand for portable power. Smaller, rechargeable items also depend on this chemistry, including:
- Wireless headphones
- Smartwatches
- Portable gaming consoles
- Small cordless power tools, such as handheld vacuums and drills
Electric Mobility and Energy Infrastructure
The demand for lithium increases significantly for large-scale energy applications. Electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) require battery packs that are much larger than those in consumer electronics. These packs utilize lithium-ion cells to provide the necessary range and performance for transportation.
Lithium is also foundational to modern energy infrastructure. Utility-scale battery storage systems (BESS) manage the electrical grid by storing excess energy generated by intermittent sources like solar and wind power. This energy is released on demand to stabilize the grid and manage peak load periods. Residential energy storage systems, often paired with home solar installations, also rely on lithium-ion batteries for backup power. Large data centers employ lithium-ion uninterruptible power supplies (UPS) to ensure continuous operation.
Specialized Non-Rechargeable Power Sources
Lithium is used in specialized primary, or non-rechargeable, batteries, distinct from rechargeable lithium-ion technology. These cells are known for their long shelf life and stable voltage output, making them suitable for devices that require reliable, low-drain power over many years.
Primary lithium cells provide predictable, long-duration power for products such as pacemakers and other implantable medical devices. Non-rechargeable lithium batteries are also used in:
- Small coin-cell batteries found in car key fobs, wristwatches, and specialized cameras
- Modern smoke alarms
- Utility meters to ensure maintenance-free operation for a decade or more
Industrial and Chemical Applications
Lithium’s utility extends beyond its electrochemical properties, serving as a chemical compound in various industries. One of its longest-standing applications is in lubrication, where lithium stearate is a common ingredient in high-performance greases. This lithium-based soap provides excellent water resistance and thermal stability, making the grease suitable for vehicle chassis, machinery, and industrial equipment operating under harsh conditions.
In manufacturing, lithium compounds play a role in the production of glass and ceramics. The addition of lithium carbonate or lithium oxide helps to lower the melting point of the raw materials, which reduces energy consumption during the process. This also imparts improved thermal shock resistance to the final products, a desirable property for items like specialized stovetops and optical glass.
Other applications include:
- Lithium chloride and lithium bromide, employed in industrial air conditioning and dehumidification systems due to their strong affinity for absorbing water vapor.
- Lithium carbonate, used in the medical field as a prescription mood stabilizer for psychiatric conditions.