← Chemistries · Entity: Chemistry
Lithium nickel cobalt aluminium oxide
| Entity type | Chemistry |
|---|---|
| Nominal voltage | 3.6 V |
| Operating voltage window | 2.7–4.2 V |
| Energy density | 200–260 Wh/kg (cell level) |
| Cycle life | 500–1,500 cycles (cycles to 80% capacity, ~80% DOD, 25 °C) |
| Temperature window | discharge −20 to +55 °C · charge 0 to +45 °C |
| Thermal stability | Lower than LFP (needs management) |
| Cobalt content | ~10–15% (falling) |
| Typical cell format | Cylindrical |
All figures are typical ranges, not a substitute for a specific cell datasheet — they vary by manufacturer, cell format and C-rate.
What the data means: NCA’s position in the chemistry family is set by two numbers working against each other — energy density (Wh/kg) and cycle life. NCA sits at roughly 200–260 Wh/kg and 500–1,500 cycles, which places it at a specific point on the energy-versus-longevity trade-off.
Why it matters: A datasheet number only means something with its basis — cell-level energy density is not pack-level, and cycle life is only meaningful at a stated depth of discharge and temperature. Read NCA against those conditions, never as a bare figure.
Engineering interpretation, not a purchasing guarantee.
Evidence card — how this chemistry’s data was established
Basis: typical ranges cross-verified from cell-manufacturer datasheets and battery engineering references.
Typical ranges; NCA is concentrated in cylindrical cells and holds a small energy-density edge over NMC.
Last verified: 2026-09-18
Values are typical ranges, not a substitute for a specific cell datasheet. Return to World Battery Hub.