How to prevent lithium-ion battery fires

How to prevent lithium-ion battery fires

Introduction

Is a swollen lithium-ion battery dangerous? Can lithium-ion batteries leak? In our modern, tech-driven world, lithium-ion batteries have become an integral part of our lives – but this change poses questions. While these batteries are incredibly efficient and provide long-lasting power, they also come with certain risks – the most prominent being the potential for fires. Here, we look into their potential hazards and how you can minimise risk.

What causes lithium-ion batteries to catch fire?

These batteries can be prone to damage, and damage can be caused in a number of ways such as overheating, crushing, malfunction, penetration, damaged devices and short circuit. However, the main cause of damage is over charging. This damage can cause cells in the battery to rapidly overheat. As soon as it hits 60°C large amounts of toxic and flammable gases are released and the cells enter an uncontrollable, self-heating state known as thermal runaway. Thermal runaway is a chain reaction within a battery cell that can be very difficult to stop once it has started. Very soon after, the gases burst the battery cell and cause them to almost always ignite. Chemical reactions start to occur which adds further heat and causes the fire to spread rapidly across all other cells in a battery. This triggers thermal runaway in otherwise undamaged cells.

How to prevent thermal runaway

There are precautions that can be taken in order to prevent the risk of thermal runaway. Here we discuss several ways in which you can help manage your devices safely:

Choose quality products

One of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of lithium-ion battery fires is to choose quality products. When purchasing devices or batteries, opt for reputable brands and suppliers. High quality products are more likely to meet safety standards and undergo rigorous testing, reducing the chances of a malfunction.

Avoid overcharging

To prevent overcharging, always follow the manufacturer’s charging recommendations. Many modern devices have built-in safety features to prevent overcharging, but it’s still essential that devices are unplugged once they’ve reached a full charge. Avoid charging your device overnight or leaving it plugged in for extended periods.

Keep an eye on temperature

Lithium-ion batteries are sensitive to temperature fluctuations. Extreme heat or cold can lead to battery malfunctions. To prevent overheating, avoid exposing your devices to direct sunlight, and don’t leave them in hot cars during summer. Similarly, using your device in extremely cold temperatures can reduce battery life and potentially cause issues.

Prevent physical damage

Protecting your devices from physical damage is another key aspect of fire prevention. Avoid dropping, puncturing, or crushing devices with lithium-ion batteries. A commonly asked question is ‘Can lithium-ion batteries leak’? In a nutshell, yes – even minor damage to the battery casing can lead to leakage or fires. Consider using protective cases or covers to minimise the risk of physical damage.

Regular inspections

Are old lithium-ion batteries dangerous? They can be, if they’re damaged, mishandled, or improperly stored. Perform routine inspections of your devices to check for any signs of wear and tear. Look for swollen batteries, cracks, or other abnormalities, as these can all pose hazards. If you notice any issues, consult the manufacturer or a professional technician for advice on replacement or repair.

Battery storage

When storing spare batteries or devices, keep them in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Ensure they are stored in a manner that prevents physical damage or short circuits.

Battery disposal

Dispose of old or damaged batteries responsibly. Many recycling centres accept lithium-ion batteries for proper disposal. Never throw them in the bin or incinerate them, as this can lead to environmental contamination and potential safety hazards.

 Thanks to CheckFire, one of HR Fire’s suppliers of fire extinguishers for this useful information.