Not using a li-po battery reduces its life cycle?

In summary, lithium polymer batteries should be stored at about 70% of their capacity if they will not be used for an extended period of time. It is also recommended to store them at a temperature between 5ºC and 27ºC, with a lower temperature being ideal. The optimal voltage for long-term storage is 3.8-3.85V per cell and it is advised to check the voltage every few weeks to ensure it does not drop below 3.0V. According to Battery University, storing lithium-based batteries above 40% State of Charge should prevent any damage, and a lower temperature will result in a higher percentage of charge recovery after a long storage period.
  • #1
kolleamm
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If I don't use my lithium polymer batteries for an extended period of time will that damage them?

In that case how often should I charge them to prevent a such degradation?

Thanks in advance
 
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  • #2
This is a common problem in the RC aircraft community, LiPo batteries are generally recommended to be stored at about 70% of their capacity if they're going to sit unused for an extended period of time. In my experience it's probably ok to store them at full charge for around a week, after that, should store them at the reduced storage voltage.

http://www.dronethusiast.com/ultimate-drone-battery-care/

DroneEnthusiast.com said:
Manufacturers state that when storing lithium polymer batteries for any length of time, we should store them ideally at a temperature of between 5ºC & 27ºC. The lower the temperature the better. The optimum voltage for long-term storage, as already mentioned is 3.8-3.85V per cell. Best practice after a days flying, is to charge them back to storage voltage using the storage function on your charger.
 
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  • #3
Okay so charge my batteries to 70%, how often would I have to recharge them so their voltage doesn't drop too much assuming they discharge over time? For long term storage.
 
  • #4
Maybe check their voltage every few weeks and make sure they haven't dropped below safe levels (3.0 V)?
 
  • #5
You could check Battery University website. It's basically a comprehensive encyclopaedia about battery technology, as the creator is a battery engineer itself working for a company called Cadex.

From what I know, there should not be a
problem as long as store lithium-based batteries above a certain threshold of State of Charge, in this case, 40%. And also according to the article, the lower the temperature you store them at, the higher the % of charge they will recover after a long time of storage.

This is the link, it's a pretty good reading with lots of technical info:

http://batteryuniversity.com/learn/article/how_to_store_batteries
 
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1. How does not using a li-po battery affect its lifespan?

Not using a li-po battery can significantly reduce its lifespan. Li-po batteries are designed to be used regularly and not using them can cause the battery to deteriorate and lose its capacity over time.

2. Will not using a li-po battery make it last longer?

No, not using a li-po battery will not make it last longer. In fact, it can have the opposite effect and reduce its lifespan. Li-po batteries need to be used regularly to maintain their functionality.

3. How often should a li-po battery be used to maintain its lifespan?

Li-po batteries should be used at least once every few weeks to maintain their lifespan. It is recommended to fully charge and discharge the battery at least once every 20-30 cycles.

4. Can not using a li-po battery cause it to become damaged?

Yes, not using a li-po battery can cause it to become damaged. If the battery is left unused for an extended period of time, it can become over-discharged and potentially become damaged or even unsafe to use.

5. How can I prolong the lifespan of a li-po battery?

To prolong the lifespan of a li-po battery, it is important to use it regularly and avoid over-discharging or over-charging it. It is also recommended to store the battery in a cool and dry place when not in use.

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