This study was conducted to analyze the self-discharge characteristics of lithium polymer batteries, a critical power source for drone operations, under various charge states and long-term storage conditions, thereby proposing efficient battery manage...
This study was conducted to analyze the self-discharge characteristics of lithium polymer batteries, a critical power source for drone operations, under various charge states and long-term storage conditions, thereby proposing efficient battery management and storage strategies. Commercial lithium polymer batteries were categorized into fully charged (4.2V), partially charged (3.8V), and low-voltage (3.2V) states, and measurements of voltage, volume, weight, and surface temperature were taken at two-week intervals over an eight-month period. The collected data were quantitatively evaluated through linear regression analysis.
The findings revealed that batteries stored at 4.2V exhibited significant self-discharge rates, notable cell imbalance, noticeable volume expansion, and weight reduction, suggesting disadvantages for maintaining battery performance during long-term storage. Conversely, batteries stored at 3.8V showed excellent voltage stability and minimal cell imbalance, accompanied by an extremely low self-discharge rate. Batteries stored at 3.2V experienced a high voltage reduction rate and exacerbated cell imbalance. Linear regression analysis yielded determination coefficients (R²) of 0.807 for 4.2V, 0.615 for 3.8V, and 0.655 for 3.2V, confirming that the self-discharge followed a consistent linear pattern.
This study scientifically validates that storing lithium polymer batteries at an intermediate voltage state of 3.8V is optimal for practical management. These findings are expected to serve as critical guidelines for maintaining battery performance and maximizing safety in various industries, including military and commercial drone operations.