Perspectives on portable lithium ion batteries liquid and polymer electrolyte types

Since their introduction in the early 1990s, portable lithium ion batteries have undergone profound changes in performance, cell sizes and cost. This battery type now offers excellent cost and performance for many applications. Further improvements in the cells is likely and the author is optimistic about the future penetration into many new markets. An overview of the present status of liquid electrolyte and polymer electrolyte lithium ion batteries is given. Also, the effects on the applications and their future growth are considered.