Did it ever occur to you that the term "lithium" when used with these batteries is just a marketing ploy??

I used to play a golf ball that had a "lithium surlyn" cover. It didn't go any straighter than "non-lithium" balls.

Have a look at http://batteryuniversity.com/learn/article/charging_lithium_ion_batteries

Thanks MB and LynLynch, that is what I was looking for. I knew there had to be a fairly simple answer...just hadn't found it.

There are 2 generations of Lithium battery technology in the market.

First generation is the original metallic cathode construction, not much different to the old zinc carbon cell.

Attempting to recharge these is fraught as the redeposition is 'random' leading to concentrated current paths - heat - explosion.

The second generation/s* use a granular lithium approach, so totally different construction, plus various 'doping' materials; which has 'solved the problem' of recharge-ability.

In checking my memory on this, I found you a link. which on quick scan, seems to cover everything quite well. You can 'glaze over' during the 'chemistry' and still follow the 'innovation history'.

*This might interest on the laptop question.