Primary differences between NMC and LFP to consider for my maritime application?

The main difference between these batteries, lies in their chemical composition, which has a direct effect on the energy density, the safety, the cost, the environmental impact and ofcourse the suitability for your application. Each applications highly suitable for maritime applications, but with distinct characteristics.

Energy Density

The amount of energy that can be stored per unit is a key factor when it comes to selecting a battery system for maritime applications as there are often strict space and weight limitations. Due to the combination of chemicals in LFP, they require more physical space for the same energy output as NMC batteries. Which means NMC batteries are better suitable for applications with very limited space available for a battery room.

Safety

One of the most importent aspects of maritime batteries: the safety. Our Octopus Series has several maritime type approvals and meet the strict regulations of highly valued class societies. But ofcourse there are differences when we look at the chemical composition of the module. LFP are seen as one of the safest lithium-ion chemistries. They are indeed inherently more thermally stable and resistant to thermal runaway compared to others. However, LFP cells can experience slight expansion during regular charge and discharge cycles, which must be accounted for in a system. The safety of the NMC batteries depends on the precise ratio and behaviour of nickel, manganes and cobalt. Altough nickel increases the energy density, it can also raise instablility. On the other hand manganese and cobalt help balance out the safety and longevity of the system. The Octopus Series HE, HP and Lite modules offer the safest ratio-combination of NMC. That is also why we can proudly say that our Octopus Series systems have never experiences thermal runaway. Last, but not least, the Battery Management System (BMS) plays an important role in the safe operation of both chemistries. Our Octopus Series is designed with hard- and software safety features.

Cost

This is a difficult one as the cost of a battery varies a lot, depending on the cost of materials and supply chain stability, but mostly NCM is more costly on kWh-base compared to LFP. This is due to the materials used. Where space and weight savings have an impact on the operational efficiency it can be more cost effectively to decide for an NMC battery system

Environmental Impact

When it comes to the impact on the environment, it can be said that LFP batteries have lower impact. This is due to the fact that there is less need for the sourcing of raw materials as NMC relies on the combination of cobalt and nickel. These two materials are associated with higher environmental degradation. Where Iron and Phosphate are more abundant materials and they are easier to source responsibly. However, as LFP requires more physical space due to lower energy density than NMC, this can have an impact on the design and environmental footprint of the system or the vessel. Overall, it is considered that LFP is a more environmentally friendly option.

Suitability for your application

NMC has a higher energy density and LFP has imrpoved thermal and chemical stability. NMC is due to the energy density very suitable for space-constrained applications that require maximum energy storage per unit of volume or weight. The type of vessels that benefit from an NMC battery system are ferries, short sea coasters, ….. where the systems are mostly used for hybrid propulsion, peak shaving or as range extender.

LFP systems work well when used for fully electric operations, which we see often on board of ferries and inland vessels. This type of battery is highly reliable when ships run on battery power for extended periods, when frequent cycles are needed, long operational life with reduced thermal risk. Vessels with high safety requirements and enough space for installation.

Concluding

When looking at LFP or NMC for your battery system, a lot of factors need to be taken into account. But ultimately, the optimal choice between NMC and LFP depends on the vessel’s operational profile, energy and space requirements, and environmental or regulatory priorities.