What Kind of Cells Are Used to Rebuild Laptop Batteries?

Cell Origin
The core cells used to rebuild all batteries, including laptop batteries, are electrochemical. This type of cell contains two electrodes: the anode-a negative electrode; and the cathode-a positive electrode. The ionic conductor is the circuit that separates the anode from the cathode. When an electrical current runs through the ionic conductor, the anode releases oxidation and the cathode has a reduction chemical reaction. The free flowing atoms that are electrically charged are called "ions."

Lithium-ion Batteries
Toshiba Laptop batteries contain lithium-ion cells. Graphite, a material which is carbon-based, typically acts as the anode and lithium, along with either cobalt, nickel oxide or a manganese material, is the cathode.

Benefits
Lithium-ion batteries produce ions that do not alter their formation when lithium ions pass back and forth through the anode and cathode. This makes them an excellent choice for sustaining continued energy for mobile devices, such as cell phones, power reserves, camcorders and laptops. Its reduced weight is suited for these devices as well. Environmentally friendly, lithium-ion batteries produce low emissions and are considered safe to use. Rechargeable batteries extend the life of devices which would normally have to be replaced due to shortened toshiba satellite a200 battery life.

Drawbacks
The debate continues regarding how much of the Earth's supply of lithium is available to meet our needs now and in the future. The cost of lithium components may also rise to keep up with the demand.

Advancements
Scientists are underway to develop lithium-ion batteries utilizing a genetically engineered biological virus that may be used to power the laptops of the future. Early tests showed positive results by yielding highly charged iron phosphate cathodes that included a manipulated gene of the M13 virus. Overall, researchers continue to work on the design of the carbon-based cathodes using the lithium-ion toshiba pa3356u-2bas laptop battery chemistry due to its reputation for harnessing energy for sustained periods in portable devices and hybrid vehicles.

Electric automobiles currently use lithium batteries with a lithium metal base and a formulation including lithium manganese or phosphate. This is more suitable for the larger toshiba satellite a300 battery type needed for electric vehicles and hybrids to what is currently used for laptops.