Discover the world's longest lasting batteries, including lithium thionyl chloride (LiSOCl2) batteries that deliver up to 40 years of reliable operation through advanced passivation technology.
Operating life in ideal conditions
Discover why LiSOCl2 batteries are considered the ultimate long-life power solution
Lithium thionyl chloride (LiSOCl2) batteries represent the pinnacle of long-life battery technology, delivering up to 40 years of reliable operation. This extraordinary lifespan is achieved through a combination of high energy density and an extremely low self-discharge rate of just 0.7% per year.
The secret behind this exceptional longevity lies in the passivation effect - a natural protective layer that forms on the lithium anode, dramatically reducing self-discharge and preserving the battery's energy for decades.
40-Year Life
Passivation protected
A thin lithium chloride layer forms on the anode surface, creating a natural barrier.
The passivation layer dramatically reduces unwanted chemical reactions and energy loss.
Energy is preserved for decades, enabling ultra-long operational lifespans.
Compare the longest lasting battery technologies and their characteristics
Battery Type | Max Lifespan | Self-Discharge | Energy Density | Operating Temp |
---|---|---|---|---|
LiSOCl2 (Lithium Thionyl Chloride) | 40 years | 0.7% per year | 500-700 Wh/kg | -55°C to +85°C |
Lithium Primary (Li-MnO2) | 20 years | 1-2% per year | 280-300 Wh/kg | -40°C to +60°C |
Lithium Iron Disulfide | 15 years | 2-3% per year | 300-350 Wh/kg | -40°C to +60°C |
Lithium Coin Cells (CR series) | 10 years | 1-2% per year | 200-250 Wh/kg | -30°C to +60°C |
Alkaline | 7 years | 2-3% per year | 100-150 Wh/kg | -18°C to +55°C |
The ultimate long-life solution with 40-year lifespan and passivation protection.
Reliable 20-year performance for consumer and professional applications.
High-performance 15-year batteries for demanding applications.
Where longest lasting batteries make the biggest impact
IoT sensors, weather stations, and environmental monitoring systems
Alarm systems, motion detectors, and surveillance equipment
Implantable devices, patient monitors, and emergency equipment
Emergency lighting, backup communications, and safety equipment
Smart meters, gas detectors, and infrastructure monitoring
Long-life smoke alarms and fire safety systems
Base stations, repeaters, and communication infrastructure
CMOS backup, real-time clocks, and data retention
Understanding the total cost of ownership for long-life batteries
While LiSOCl2 batteries cost more initially, their 40-year lifespan eliminates frequent replacements, reducing long-term costs significantly.
Fewer battery changes mean reduced labor costs, especially for remote or hard-to-access installations.
Longer-lasting batteries reduce system downtime and the associated costs of equipment failures or service interruptions.
Fewer battery replacements mean less waste and reduced environmental impact over the system's lifetime.
1 battery needed
1 battery needed
2 batteries needed
3 batteries + labor
Note: Costs include replacement labor for remote installations. LiSOCl2 provides the best value for long-term deployments.
Common questions about the longest lasting battery technologies
LiSOCl2 batteries achieve their exceptional 40-year lifespan through the passivation effect. A protective lithium chloride layer forms on the anode surface, dramatically reducing self-discharge to just 0.7% per year. Combined with high energy density (500-700 Wh/kg) and stable chemistry, this creates the longest lasting battery technology available today.
Yes, for applications requiring long-term reliability. While LiSOCl2 batteries cost more initially, they eliminate frequent replacements and reduce maintenance costs. For remote installations or critical systems, the total cost of ownership is often lower than cheaper alternatives that require regular replacement.
Remote monitoring systems, utility meters, security devices, medical implants, and IoT sensors benefit most from long-life batteries. These applications often require decades of reliable operation in locations where battery replacement is difficult, expensive, or impossible.
Consider your application's requirements: LiSOCl2 for maximum lifespan (40 years) and extreme conditions, lithium primary for 20-year reliability at moderate cost, lithium iron disulfide for high-drain applications, and lithium coin cells for compact devices. Factor in operating temperature, current draw, and replacement accessibility.
Yes, many long-life batteries excel in extreme conditions. LiSOCl2 batteries operate from -55°C to +85°C, making them ideal for harsh environments. Lithium primary batteries typically work from -40°C to +60°C. This wide temperature range is one reason why these batteries are preferred for outdoor and industrial applications.
In many cases, yes. Lithium primary batteries can often replace alkaline batteries in standard sizes (AA, AAA, etc.) with improved performance. However, check voltage compatibility - lithium batteries typically provide 1.5V or 3.6V compared to 1.5V for alkaline. Some devices may require modification or specific battery types for optimal performance.
Our battery experts can help you select the optimal long-life battery technology for your specific requirements. From 40-year LiSOCl2 batteries to other long-lasting solutions, we provide the expertise to ensure reliable, long-term power for your critical applications.