lithium-ion battery pack

• Lithium-ion battery fires: What you need to know about safety

  

  Jan 21, 2025

  It’s likely that many of the electronic devices in your home today are powered by lithium-ion batteries. Lithium-ion batteries are found in everything from cell phones and children’s toys to power tools, e-bikes, and even electric cars. These rechargeable batteries are ideal for electronic devices that need to efficiently release large amounts of power in a short period of time, and they are more environmentally friendly and cost-effective than disposable batteries. However, if lithium-ion batteries overheat, become damaged, or are exposed to salt water, they can catch fire and explode.     You may have noticed that there have been many news reports about lithium-ion battery fires in recent years. For example, in 2024, after Hurricanes Helene and Milton, salt water came into contact with lithium-ion batteries in electric vehicles and other battery-powered devices such as golf carts and scooters, causing several house fires. If you’ve flown in recent years, you may have also noticed that carrying a spare lithium-ion battery with you has become a requirement for aviation safety. These incidents have heightened public awareness of lithium-ion batteries, but the actual fire risks are not fully understood by everyone.   Why are lithium-ion batteries so popular? One significant advantage of lithium-ion batteries is that they allow for more compact devices. Lithium is the lightest metal element, which allows lithium-ion batteries to store more energy in a relatively small space, making for smaller, lighter electronic devices. For portable devices like mobile phones, lightness and compactness are the top consumer demands. In addition, the rechargeable nature of lithium-ion batteries also makes them more attractive than traditional disposable batteries. Not only can consumers reduce the hassle of frequently purchasing new batteries, but lithium-ion batteries also have no "memory effect." This is different from other types of rechargeable batteries (such as nickel-cadmium batteries), which can cause capacity and voltage to drop if they are recharged without being fully discharged. Lithium-ion batteries avoid this problem, ensuring longer-term efficiency.   Are lithium-ion batteries a fire hazard?     Lithium-ion batteries are generally safe if they are stored, used, and charged properly. To ensure safety, follow these recommendations when using lithium-ion batteries: • Store batteries in a cool, dry place away from flammable items and avoid moisture. Do not expose batteries to sunlight or extreme cold. • Follow the battery storage guidelines provided by the device manufacturer. • Always use the charger that came with the device. Some chargers have a temperature-regulating feature to ensure that the battery doesn't overheat. Using an inappropriate charger can cause the battery to overcharge, which can pose a safety hazard. • Always unplug the power cord after charging is complete to avoid overcharging. • Do not charge your device in bed or under a pillow, and ensure that there is enough air circulation around the device to keep it cool. Also, lithium-ion batteries don't last forever. Typically, they last two to three years, or about 500 charge and discharge cycles. Common signs of battery aging include slower charging, overheating, swelling, or losing power when not in use. If these problems occur, the battery should be replaced as soon as possible, and never replace a lithium-ion battery yourself without the manufacturer's guidance.   What causes lithium-ion battery fires? The root cause of lithium-ion battery fires is a phenomenon called "thermal runaway." When the battery cannot effectively release the heat it generates, its temperature rises rapidly, causing a fire or explosion. Counterfeit batteries are a greater risk because they are usually of poor quality and prone to this problem. Here are some factors that can cause lithium-ion battery fires: • Leaving the battery plugged in after charging is complete • Physical damage to the battery or its casing • Using a charging method that is too fast (usually with a non-designated charger) • Exposing the battery to extreme heat or cold • Exposing the battery to salt water, such as when stored in a basement or garage that could be flooded • Using uncertified batteries   As electric scooters, electric bikes, and other mobility devices become more popular, many fires caused by lithium-ion batteries have occurred in these devices. Residents living in multi-unit housing, especially those who need to charge these battery-powered devices at home, are at an increased risk of fire.

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