xiv Preface In this book you will first begin by gaining an understanding of the history of batteries, as we do not want to repeat any of the mistakes of the past; it is important to understand what has come before us. The next most challenging part of moving into a new industry is understand- ing the lingo; this book will also help to give you that basic understanding. You will also be able to gain an understanding of the basic math that can be used in doing the first run sizing of a battery—this section is the result of 7 years of taking notes and back calculating some of the work I had seen engineers do over the years.
This is followed by chapters that will intro- duce you to the different parts of the battery, the industry organizations that are out there, and a wide range of different applications that are being powered by batteries—some lithium-ion and some with other technologies. So whether you are looking to learn something about one aspect of lithium-ion batteries to bolster your knowledge or are entirely new and are looking to learn all about the basics, this book will be a good tool to add to your toolbox. I have come to believe that, after nearly 2 years of writing and editing this book, it is an ongoing project that will continue to evolve as the industry and technologies themselves evolve.
Lithium-ion battery technology is not fixed; it is a constantly evolving field with new innovations, inventions, and chemistries emerging almost daily. This book will give you a great basis to continue your education. So charge up and get started!