Lithium-Ion (NMC)
Battery Chemistries · 9 specs
Direct Answer
Lithium Nickel Manganese Cobalt Oxide (LiNiMnCoO2 / NMC) is the primary workhorse chemistry of electric vehicles, power tools, and high-performance electronics. Operating at 3.6V–3.7V nominal with a 4.2V charge cutoff, NMC provides a balanced compromise between high gravimetric energy density (200–260 Wh/kg), robust thermal stability, and low internal resistance.
Source: IEC 62660 / IEC 61960 · Last reviewed Aug 28, 2026
Specs
| Nominal Cell Voltage | 3.60 – 3.70 V |
| Gravimetric Energy Density | 200 – 260 Wh/kg |
| Volumetric Energy Density | 550 – 700 Wh/L |
| Cycle Life (to 80% Capacity) | 1,000 – 2,000 Cycles |
| Thermal Runaway Threshold | ~210 °C |
| Operating Temperature Range | -20 to +55 °C |
| Self-Discharge Rate | 1 – 2% / Month |
| Primary Anode Material | Synthetic / Natural Graphite |
| Primary Cathode Material | LiNiMnCoO2 (NMC 532, 622, or 811) |
Cathode Stoichiometry: From NMC 111 to NMC 811
The ratio of Nickel, Manganese, and Cobalt dictates cell properties: Nickel delivers high specific energy, Manganese provides structural and thermal stability, and Cobalt suppresses phase transitions. Modern high-nickel variants (such as NMC 811: 80% Ni, 10% Mn, 10% Co) reduce expensive, ethically sensitive cobalt content while significantly increasing energy density, requiring advanced thermal management systems in automotive packs.