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Lithium-ion batteries have become a staple of modern life. Many of the devices we use daily depend on these batteries to make them portable and lightweight. Smartphones, tablets, smartwatches, medical devices, wireless earbuds, drones, portable power banks, and e-cigarettes are some of the many devices you may own that use lithium-ion (LI) batteries. While this battery technology is convenient due to its fast-charging, high output power, and ability to recharge, LI batteries, under certain circumstances, can pose a serious fire hazard if the batteries begin to undergo a phenomenon known as thermal runaway.
In 2022, nearly half of the 400 waste and recycling fires that occurred in the U.S. and Canada could be attributed to lithium batteries. Although consumer fires related to the improper disposal of household batteries are more difficult to track, lithium-ion battery fires are prevalent and dangerous due to the widespread implementation of these high-energy, quick-charging batteries.
The Thermal Runaway Process: A Chain Reaction Leading to Fire
Thermal runaway is an uncontrolled disintegration of a battery from the inside out. This phenomenon, which can sometimes be violent, can be caused by a number of factors, including a cell defect (manufacturing and chemical technology processes), electrical abuse (short circuit, over/undercharging), thermal abuse (excessive heat), machinal abuse (puncture, or dent to the outer shell), and/or age. In some cases, thermal runaway can lead to the ignition of combustible materials and the release of toxic gases that will perpetuate unless handled appropriately.
When can the Thermal Runaway process to occur?
Overcharging
Charging a battery beyond its safe maximum voltage can lead to overheating and potentially thermal runaway.
Rapid Charging
Fast charging can lead to excessive currents, which can overheat the battery and cause thermal runaway.
Internal Short Circuits
Damage to the battery's internal components, such as the separator, can cause a short circuit, leading to rapid heat generation and thermal runaway.
External Short Circuits
Damage to the battery's external casing or connecting wires can also cause a short circuit, leading to thermal runaway.
Multiple Over Discharges Followed by Charge
Repeatedly discharging a battery below its recommended voltage threshold and then charging it can damage the battery and increase the risk of thermal runaway.
Extreme Temperatures
Exposing batteries to very high or low temperatures can cause them to overheat or become unstable, leading to thermal runaway.
External Heat Sources
Placing batteries near heat sources, such as a fire or hot surface, can cause them to overheat and potentially lead to thermal runaway.
Thermal Shock
Sudden and drastic changes in temperature can also stress the battery and potentially lead to thermal runaway.
Mechanical Damage
Dropping, crushing, or otherwise physically damaging the battery can compromise its internal components and lead to thermal runaway.
Vibration
Prolonged or excessive vibration can also damage the battery and increase the risk of thermal runaway.
Defective Cells
Manufacturing defects, such as a faulty separator or electrode, can increase the risk of internal short circuits and thermal runaway.
Poor Quality Control
Inadequate quality control during the manufacturing process can lead to batteries with inherent weaknesses that increase the risk of thermal runaway.
Where can I properly dispose of my devices with Lithium-Ion batteries?
Imagine a warm, summer-like day, and you drag your heavy garbage bag to the curb, not thinking twice about what’s inside. The garbage truck rolls up, tossing your trash in the hopper and damaging a discarded lithium-ion battery. The truck could puncture the battery in a moment, starting the chain reaction. This uncontrolled heating releases flammable gases, creating the perfect recipe for a fire in the truck. Even after extinguishing a lithium-ion battery, reignition is always a possibility. Therefore, it is essential to properly dispose of your LI battery devices.
Take used lithium-ion batteries to dedicated battery recycling centers or electronic waste collection sites. These centers are equipped to handle and safely recycle the batteries' materials, preventing them from causing environmental damage or fires.
Retail Drop-Off Locations
Many electronics retailers and office supply stores offer battery recycling programs where you can drop off old batteries. Some major chains have specific bins for battery recycling.
Local Hazardous Waste Programs
Your local government may offer hazardous waste collection programs that include lithium-ion battery disposal. These programs ensure the safe handling and recycling of hazardous materials.
Battery Mail-In Programs
Some electronic companies provide mail-in programs where you can send your used batteries or devices for proper recycling.
CED engineers have advanced mechanical, electrical, chemical, civil, and fire sciences expertise. CED Technologies remains at the forefront of lithium battery advancements, utilizing innovative testing techniques to deliver accurate reports that reconstruct fire incidents for our clients. Contact us today!
