--- title: Battery Cell Chemistries and Alternatives Due To Supply Chain Issues description: Explore battery cell chemistries and alternatives to manage supply chain shortages, reduce lead times, and maintain custom battery pack performance. image: https://blog.epectec.com/hubfs/blog/lithium-battery-cells-tab-welded.jpg --- [![Epec Engineered Technologies](https://www.epectec.com/images/logo.png "Epec Engineered Technologies")](https://www.epectec.com/) [![Epec Engineered Technologies](https://www.epectec.com/images/logo.png "Epec Engineered Technologies")](https://www.epectec.com/) - [Articles](https://www.epectec.com/articles/) - [Blog](https://blog.epectec.com/) - [Webinars](https://www.epectec.com/webinar/) - [Videos](https://www.epectec.com/videos/) - [Case Studies](https://www.epectec.com/case-studies/) - [News & Events](https://www.epectec.com/news/) - [Customer Portal](https://system.netsuite.com/c.406760/site/NSlogin.html) - [About](https://www.epectec.com/about/overview/) - Back - [Company Overview](https://www.epectec.com/about/overview/) - [Our History](https://www.epectec.com/about/our-history/) - [Culture](https://www.epectec.com/about/culture/) - [Industries Served](https://www.epectec.com/about/industry/) - [Acquisitions](https://www.epectec.com/about/acquisitions.html) - [Operations](https://www.epectec.com/operations/) - Back - [Operational Excellence](https://www.epectec.com/operations/) - [Quality Philosophy](https://www.epectec.com/operations/quality-philosophy.html) - [Quality Assurance Process](https://www.epectec.com/operations/quality-assurance-process.html) - [Global Operations](https://www.epectec.com/operations/global-operations.html) - [Logistics & Supply Chain](https://www.epectec.com/operations/logistics-and-supply-chain.html) - [Inventory Stocking](https://www.epectec.com/operations/inventory-stocking.html) - [Approvals](https://www.epectec.com/operations/approvals.html) - [ITAR Registered](https://www.epectec.com/operations/itar-registered.html) - [Engineering](https://www.epectec.com/engineering/overview/) - Back - [Engineering Overview](https://www.epectec.com/engineering/overview/) - [Engineering Support](https://www.epectec.com/engineering/support/) - [Design Services](https://www.epectec.com/engineering/design-services/) - [EpecDFx™](https://www.epectec.com/engineering/epecdfx/) - [Free DFM File Check](https://www.epectec.com/engineering/free-dfm.html) - [PCB Impedance Calculator](https://www.epectec.com/engineering/impedance-calculator.html) - [Products](https://www.epectec.com/products/) - Back - [Overview](https://www.epectec.com/products/) - [Battery Packs](https://www.epectec.com/batteries/) - [Flex & Rigid-Flex PCBS](https://www.epectec.com/flex/) - [Cable Assemblies](https://www.epectec.com/cable-assemblies/) - [Printed Circuit Boards](https://www.epectec.com/pcb/) - [CNC Machining](https://www.epectec.com/cnc-machining/) - [User Interfaces](https://www.epectec.com/user-interfaces/) - [Flexible Heaters](https://www.epectec.com/flexible-heaters/) - [EC Fans & Motors](https://www.epectec.com/fans-motors/) [Battery Packs![Custom Battery Packs](https://www.epectec.com/images/new-nav/flyout-battery-packs.png "Batteries and Custom Battery Packs")](https://www.epectec.com/batteries/) --- [CNC Machining![CNC Machining](https://www.epectec.com/images/new-nav/flyout-cnc-machining.png "CNC Machining")](https://www.epectec.com/cnc-machining/) [Flex & Rigid-Flex PCBs![Flex and Rigid-Flex Circuits](https://www.epectec.com/images/new-nav/flyout-flex-and-rigid-flex.png "Flex and Rigid-Flex Circuits")](https://www.epectec.com/flex/) --- [User Interfaces![User Interfaces](https://www.epectec.com/images/new-nav/flyout-user-interfaces2.png "User Interfaces Product Solutions")](https://www.epectec.com/user-interfaces/) [Cable Assemblies![Cable Assemblies](https://www.epectec.com/images/new-nav/flyout-cable-assemblies.png "Cable Assemblies")](https://www.epectec.com/cable-assemblies/) --- [Flexible Heaters![Flexible Heaters](https://www.epectec.com/images/new-nav/flyout-flexible-heaters.png "Flexible Heaters")](https://www.epectec.com/flexible-heaters/) [Printed Circuit Boards![Printed Circuit Boards](https://www.epectec.com/images/new-nav/flyout-printed-circuit-boards2.png "Printed Circuit Boards")](https://www.epectec.com/pcb/) --- [EC Fans & Motors![EC Fans and Motors](https://www.epectec.com/images/new-nav/flyout-fans-and-motors.png "EC Fans and Motors")](https://www.epectec.com/fans-motors/) - [Design Guides](https://www.epectec.com/guides/) - [Design Guides](https://www.epectec.com/guides/) - Back - Resources - Back - [Articles](https://www.epectec.com/articles/) - [Blog](https://blog.epectec.com/) - [Webinars](https://www.epectec.com/webinar/) - [Videos](https://www.epectec.com/videos/) - [Case Studies](https://www.epectec.com/case-studies/) - [News & Events](https://www.epectec.com/news/) - [Customer Portal](https://system.netsuite.com/c.406760/site/NSlogin.html) - [Contact Us](https://www.epectec.com/contact/) - Back - [Contact Information](https://www.epectec.com/contact/) - [Our Sales Team](https://www.epectec.com/contact/our-sales-team.html) - [Office Locations](https://www.epectec.com/contact/office-locations.html) - [Career Opportunities](https://www.epectec.com/contact/career-opportunities.html) - [InstantPCB*Quote*™](https://www.epectec.com/instantpcbquote/) - Back - [Overview](https://www.epectec.com/instantpcbquote/) - [Login](https://secure.epecpcb.com/epec/) - [Register](https://secure.epecpcb.com/epec/index2.jsp) [![](https://www.epectec.com/images/InstantPCBQuote-logo.png)](https://www.epectec.com/instantpcbquote/) [Login](https://secure.epecpcb.com/epec/) [Register](https://secure.epecpcb.com/epec/index2.jsp) Register to Quote and Order Your PCBs Fast, Easy & Online, 24/7 - [Home](https://www.epectec.com/) - [Blog](https://blog.epectec.com/) - Battery Cell Chemistries and Alternatives Due To Supply Chain Issues Share This Page: [LinkedIn](https://blog.epectec.com/#linkedin) [X](https://blog.epectec.com/#x) [Facebook](https://blog.epectec.com/#facebook) [Email](https://blog.epectec.com/#email) # Battery Cell Chemistries and Alternatives Due To Supply Chain Issues [![Anton Beck](https://blog.epectec.com/hubfs/Blog-Authors/anton-beck.jpg "Anton Beck")](https://blog.epectec.com/author/anton-beck) Written by [Anton Beck](https://blog.epectec.com/author/anton-beck) Posted on January 10, 2023 at 9:24 AM ![Anton Beck](https://blog.epectec.com/hubfs/Blog-Authors/anton-beck.jpg "Anton Beck") - [Tweet](https://twitter.com/share) Supply-chain constraints can affect more than the delivery date of a custom battery pack. When battery cells, raw materials, semiconductors, or [battery management system](https://www.epectec.com/batteries/battery-management-systems.html) (BMS) components become difficult to source, manufacturers may have to evaluate alternative suppliers, cell chemistries, or electronic components. Any substitution must still meet the requirements of the [battery pack](https://www.epectec.com/batteries/). A cell from another manufacturer may differ in chemistry or performance, while changing BMS components can affect how the pack monitors voltage, current, temperature, charging, discharging, and other operating conditions. For that reason, managing battery supply constraints requires both procurement planning and engineering evaluation. ## Why Battery Cell Supply Chains Can Become Constrained [Battery cell chemistries](https://www.epectec.com/batteries/chemistry/) depend on a range of raw materials. Lithium, cobalt, nickel, magnesium, and graphite are among the materials used in [lithium-based chemistries](https://www.epectec.com/batteries/lithium-battery-technologies.html) and are described as critical minerals that serve as building blocks for energy storage. [![Learn the Pros & Cons of Nickel Over Lithium Based Batteries](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/707152/79dba5db-2d2b-4802-b05b-3e666573f98f.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/707152/79dba5db-2d2b-4802-b05b-3e666573f98f) The supply chain begins before a battery cell reaches the manufacturer. Raw materials must be mined, processed, refined, transported, and converted into the materials and components used to manufacture battery cells. Much of this activity occurs outside the United States. It specifically cites international mining of cobalt and nickel as well as overseas production of cathodes and anodes. This creates a multistage supply chain in which disruption at mining, refining, materials processing, component production, or transportation can ultimately affect the availability and lead time of battery cells. **There are several factors contributing to these constraints at the time of publication, including:** - COVID-19-related factory shutdowns and production reductions - The war between Russia and Ukraine - Limited domestic mining capacity - International transportation constraints - Growing demand for lithium-based batteries from electronics and electric vehicles - Increasing material prices associated with strong demand and limited supply When supplies become constrained, manufacturers may face both higher prices and longer delivery times. Those delays can then affect the production schedule of the customer relying on the completed battery pack. ## Lead-Acid Availability Can Follow a Different Supply Pattern Not every battery chemistry experiences the same supply conditions. Lead-acid battery shortages had declined during 2022 as China's surplus of lead and lower domestic demand helped offset some demand in the United States and Europe. It cited an expected surplus of 78,000 tons of refined lead, while noting that transportation remained a challenge when moving this material out of China. The comparison illustrates why battery availability has to be considered at the chemistry and supply-chain level rather than assuming that every battery technology faces the same constraints. ## BMS Component Availability Can Also Affect Battery Pack Lead Times Battery cells are only one potential source of supply-chain delays. Electronic components required for a BMS can also influence battery pack availability. ![Lithium battery cells, tab welded, awaiting BMS for assembly](https://blog.epectec.com/hs-fs/hubfs/blog/lithium-battery-cells-tab-welded.jpg?width=800&height=533&name=lithium-battery-cells-tab-welded.jpg) *Lithium battery cells, tab welded, awaiting BMS for assembly.* [A BMS monitors a battery](https://blog.epectec.com/the-role-of-the-battery-management-system) to support safe operation and track battery condition. The functions include monitoring: - Capacity - Temperature - Charging and discharging status - Battery aging - Voltage - Current Depending on the design, the BMS may also detect ground faults, log and diagnose abnormal events, and help prolong battery life. A BMS is required for certain unstable battery chemistries, including lithium-based battery packs. These systems use integrated circuits to collect and monitor battery data, so the pack remains within its defined operating limits. The availability of those semiconductor components can therefore become another source of battery pack lead-time risk. ## How Semiconductor Shortages Affect BMS Availability The global semiconductor shortage that began in 2020 is another significant constraint on battery production. Demand for semiconductors remained strong across the automotive and consumer-electronics industries while COVID-19 disruptions affected production. Because integrated circuits are also required for battery management systems, shortages across these larger industries could affect BMS component availability. At the time, semiconductor lead times could reach 48 to 52 weeks. Semiconductor supply had begun improving in some sectors toward the end of 2022 as production increased, although the extent of improvement depended on the type of chip required. For a battery pack program, the important consideration is that cell availability alone doesn't determine production lead time. The electronic components required for the BMS must also be available when the pack is manufactured. ## Using Multiple Battery Cell Manufacturers to Reduce Supply Risk One approach is working with multiple battery cell manufacturers. When one supplier cannot provide the required cells within the project's schedule, another manufacturer with shorter lead times may provide an alternative. However, cells from different manufacturers should not be treated as automatically interchangeable. An alternative manufacturer still needs to provide cells with the quality and capacity required by the product. Differences in cell chemistry may affect charging, discharging, capacity, and overall battery pack performance. A change intended to solve a purchasing, or lead-time problem can therefore become an engineering problem if the replacement cell changes how the battery operates. The suitability of the alternative cell needs to be evaluated against the requirements of the product and battery pack before the substitution is made. ## Evaluating Alternative BMS Components Component shortages can also create opportunities to evaluate the BMS design itself. The starting point is determining which functions the BMS needs to perform. Temperature, voltage, and current sensing are functions that may be required. Depending on the product, the BMS may also need to detect ground faults, diagnose or log abnormal events, and perform other battery-management functions. Once those requirements are defined, designers can evaluate whether alternative components can perform the necessary tasks. Isolation transformers and mode chock are examples of components that may be considered for voltage isolation and EMI suppression. It also suggests evaluating whether every existing BMS function is necessary for the battery cell and finished product. If certain functions are not required, unnecessary components may be eliminated rather than replaced. If a function is necessary, however, any alternative still must provide the performance required by the battery pack. ## Battery Cell Substitutions Require More Than Matching Availability Supply-chain flexibility depends on identifying alternatives that satisfy both availability and technical requirements. A replacement battery cell may have a shorter lead time; quality, capacity, charging characteristics, discharging characteristics, chemistry, and compatibility with the battery pack also matter. Similarly, an available BMS component isn't necessarily an acceptable substitute simply because it can be purchased. Its function within the battery management system must first be understood. **This creates a practical sequence for dealing with supply constraints:** 1. **Identify the unavailable or long-lead item.** Determine whether the constraint involves the battery cell, BMS components, or another part of the supply chain. 2. **Define the technical requirement.** Establish what the existing cell or BMS component contributes to the battery pack. 3. **Identify potential alternatives.** This may include another qualified cell manufacturer, a different cell option, or alternative components capable of performing the required BMS functions. 4. **Evaluate the effect on the battery pack.** Consider factors, including cell quality, capacity, charging, discharging, and required BMS functionality. 5. **Align component lead times with the product schedule.** Communicating with the battery pack manufacturer early allows material availability and expected lead times to be considered before they disrupt production. ## Address Supply-Chain Constraints Early in the Battery Design Process Battery cell and BMS lead times can affect the schedule of the entire product that depends on the battery pack. Addressing these constraints early gives the customer and battery pack manufacturer more time to evaluate available cells, components, and possible design changes. Strong communication with battery cell and battery pack manufacturers can also provide better visibility into expected lead times. When a preferred cell or BMS component is difficult to obtain, an alternative may help shorten the lead time. That change should not be made on availability alone. Differences among cells can affect charging, discharging, capacity, and battery performance, while BMS substitutions must continue to support the functions required by the pack. The objective is therefore not simply to find an available component. It is to find an available option that remains appropriate for the battery pack and its application. ## Summary Lead times for battery cell chemistries and BMS components may take longer than is required for your operations. [Contacting a battery pack manufacturer](https://www.epectec.com/batteries/battery-request.html) early in the design process will allow you to speak with them about supply chain shortages and learn about possible lead times. It allows the manufacturer to speak with you regarding possible design changes for cell chemistry and BMS that can shorten lead times due to the availability of materials. These factors may help you to select the right manufacturer who can provide you with the battery cells and BMS at the right times for a streamlined supply chain. --- ## Key Takeaways - **Lithium-based chemistries face critical shortages:** Lithium, cobalt, nickel, and graphite are heavily mined overseas, with supply disrupted by COVID lockdowns, war in Ukraine, and limited U.S. mining capacity. - **Global reliance on foreign production drives risk:** China produces most of the world’s cathodes and anodes, while Russia and China dominate nickel supply, leaving U.S. manufacturers vulnerable to international disruptions. - **Semiconductor shortages continue to impact BMS availability:** Battery management systems rely on integrated circuits, and global chip shortages have extended lead times up to a year, particularly for automotive and energy storage applications. - **Alternative chemistries offer some relief:** Lead-acid batteries have seen improved availability thanks to China’s surplus of refined lead, though exporting constraints still create transportation challenges. - **Supply chain resilience requires flexibility:** Companies are mitigating shortages by working with multiple qualified cell manufacturers, evaluating alternative BMS components, and collaborating with suppliers early to align design choices with material availability. - [Tweet](https://twitter.com/share) Topics: [Electronics Industry](https://blog.epectec.com/topic/electronics-industry), [Battery Packs](https://blog.epectec.com/topic/battery-packs) --- [Next](https://blog.epectec.com/what-type-of-hmi-is-the-best-choice-for-your-application) | [All posts](https://blog.epectec.com/all) | [Previous](https://blog.epectec.com/best-ways-to-keep-costs-lower-when-developing-high-tech-pcb) [![New Call-to-action](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/707152/0a4e21d8-f513-49ce-80ed-9202c94dd21f.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/707152/0a4e21d8-f513-49ce-80ed-9202c94dd21f) ## Leave a Comment --- ## Related Posts --- ### Recent Posts --- ### Posts by Topic - [Printed Circuit Boards (162)](https://blog.epectec.com/topic/printed-circuit-boards) - [Product Design (139)](https://blog.epectec.com/topic/product-design) - [Battery Packs (122)](https://blog.epectec.com/topic/battery-packs) - [Cable Assemblies (103)](https://blog.epectec.com/topic/cable-assemblies) - [Flex & Rigid-Flex PCB's (97)](https://blog.epectec.com/topic/flex-rigid-flex-pcbs) - [Electronics Industry (61)](https://blog.epectec.com/topic/electronics-industry) - [User Interfaces (55)](https://blog.epectec.com/topic/user-interfaces) - [Quality Solutions (33)](https://blog.epectec.com/topic/quality-solutions) - [Flexible Heaters (31)](https://blog.epectec.com/topic/flexible-heaters) - [Events, Training, and Support (9)](https://blog.epectec.com/topic/events-training-and-support) - [RF Products (7)](https://blog.epectec.com/topic/rf-products) - [CNC Machining (3)](https://blog.epectec.com/topic/cnc-machining) - [Fans & Motors (1)](https://blog.epectec.com/topic/fans-motors) See All --- --- ### Need Help with A Project? [![Request Design Support](https://blog.epectec.com/hs-fs/hubfs/blog/design-support-ad.jpg?width=350&name=design-support-ad.jpg)](https://info.epectec.com/request-design-support) Our team of engineers are here to help you with all your product needs. [Request Design Support](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/707152/0d3cd574-22cb-48a2-867e-1a7ffba28403) Manufacturing That Eliminates Risk & Improves Reliability [sales@epectec.com](mailto:sales@epectec.com?subject=Website%20Information%20Request) [(888) 995-5171](tel:888-995-5171) ##### Support & Contact Our knowledgeable staff has many years of experience in the industry. We welcome the opportunity to put our skills to work for you! Please contact us with any questions or requests. - [176 Samuel Barnet Blvd, New Bedford, MA](https://maps.app.goo.gl/Q6JVMv3eQgw29fNY8) - [sales@epectec.com](mailto:sales@epectec.com?subject=Website%20Information%20Request) - [(888) 995-5171](tel:888-995-5171) --- ###### Certifications [![UL Certified Manufacturer](https://www.epectec.com/images/certified-ul.png "UL Certified Manufacturer")](http://www.ul.com/) [![ITAR Registered Manufacturer](https://www.epectec.com/images/certified-itar.png "ITAR Registered Manufacturer")](https://www.epectec.com/operations/itar-registered.html) [![RoHS Compliant Manufacturer](https://www.epectec.com/images/certified-rohs-compliant.png "RoHS Compliant Manufacturer")](https://www.epectec.com/pcb/rohs-compliant.html) [![ISO9001 Certified Manufacturer](https://www.epectec.com/images/certified-iso9001.png "ISO9001 Certified Manufacturer")](https://www.epectec.com/operations/approvals.html) [![ISO27001 Certified Manufacturer](https://www.epectec.com/images/certified-iso27001.png "ISO27001 Certified Manufacturer")](https://www.epectec.com/operations/approvals.html) --- - ##### About - [Company Overview](https://www.epectec.com/about/overview/) - [Our History](https://www.epectec.com/about/our-history/) - [Culture](https://www.epectec.com/about/culture/) - [Industries Served](https://www.epectec.com/about/industry/) - [Acquisitions](https://www.epectec.com/about/acquisitions.html) - ##### Operations - [Operational Excellence](https://www.epectec.com/operations/) - [Quality Philosophy](https://www.epectec.com/operations/quality-philosophy.html) - [Quality Assurance Process](https://www.epectec.com/operations/quality-assurance-process.html) - [Global Operations](https://www.epectec.com/operations/global-operations.html) - [Logistics & Supply Chain](https://www.epectec.com/operations/logistics-and-supply-chain.html) - [Inventory Stocking](https://www.epectec.com/operations/inventory-stocking.html) - [Approvals](https://www.epectec.com/operations/approvals.html) - [ITAR Registered](https://www.epectec.com/operations/itar-registered.html) - ##### Engineering - [Engineering Overview](https://www.epectec.com/engineering/overview/) - [Engineering Support](https://www.epectec.com/engineering/support/) - [Design Services](https://www.epectec.com/engineering/design-services/) - [EpecDFx™](https://www.epectec.com/engineering/epecdfx/) - [Free DFM File Check](https://www.epectec.com/engineering/free-dfm.html) - [PCB Impedance Calculator](https://www.epectec.com/engineering/impedance-calculator.html) - ##### Products - [Overview](https://www.epectec.com/products/) - [Battery Packs](https://www.epectec.com/batteries/) - [Flex & Rigid-Flex PCBS](https://www.epectec.com/flex/) - [Cable Assemblies](https://www.epectec.com/cable-assemblies/) - [Printed Circuit Boards](https://www.epectec.com/pcb/) - [CNC Machining](https://www.epectec.com/cnc-machining/) - [User Interfaces](https://www.epectec.com/user-interfaces/) - [Flexible Heaters](https://www.epectec.com/flexible-heaters/) - [EC Fans & Motors](https://www.epectec.com/fans-motors/) ##### Social Community Join our Social Community and keep in touch with all our latest technology investments, current news, upcoming events, and promotions. --- © 2026 Copyright Epec, LLC. All Rights Reserved. [Tariff Resources](https://www.epectec.com/tariff-resources/)|[Privacy Policy](https://www.epectec.com/privacy-policy/)|[Terms & Conditions](https://www.epectec.com/terms/site.html)|[Sitemap](https://www.epectec.com/sitemap.html) ```json { "@context" : "https://schema.org", "@type" : "BlogPosting", "author" : { "@type" : "Person", "name" : "Anton Beck", "url" : "https://blog.epectec.com/author/anton-beck" }, "dateModified" : "2026-11-05T20:12:39.906Z", "datePublished" : "2023-01-10T14:24:00.000Z", "headline" : "Battery Cell Chemistries and Alternatives Due To Supply Chain Issues", "image" : [ "https://blog.epectec.com/hubfs/blog/lithium-battery-cells-tab-welded.jpg" ], "mainEntityOfPage" : { "@id" : "https://blog.epectec.com/battery-cell-chemistries-and-alternatives-due-to-supply-chain-issues", "@type" : "WebPage" }, "publisher" : { "@type" : "Organization", "logo" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "url" : "https://blog.epectec.com/hubfs/image/logo.png" }, "name" : "Epec Engineered Technologies" } } ```