We have been curating a thought piece – see link below – by Dr Matthew Priestley. He is an associate lecturer at Energy Systems Research Group at University of New South Wales in Australia. Thus far we have reviewed his thoughts on why lithium-ion batteries fail, and how to make them safer. We consider ways to reduce the risks of lithium-ion batteries, in this our final post on this topic for now.
The Risks of Lithium-ion Batteries Catching Fire
Lithium-ion battery fires are extremely hot, and easily spread to other combustible materials. Moreover, being chemical reactions they do not need oxygen to burn. This makes them difficult to extinguish using traditional fire-fighting strategies. Furthermore, special lithium-ion gel extinguishers are still not readily available.
However, the risks of lithium-ion batteries catching alight extend beyond finding ways of extinguishing them. They also release highly toxic gases when they burn, and excessive heat can lead to explosions that may spontaneously re-ignite hours later.
What Can We, As Users Do About This?
Perhaps we need to become more aware of the downside of these remarkable batteries, and become less blasé. Matthew Priestley keeps pressing the point of not exposing them to high temperatures. We should also use the correct battery charger, and avoid borrowing a substitute ‘on the fly’.
As wise users, we should inspect lithium-ion batteries before we connect them, and regularly thereafter for any sign of damage. It also sounds intelligent not to purchase second-hand batteries, or those with packaging someone may have tampered with.
Why Do We Keep Using Lithium-ion Batteries?
We could do away with the risks of lithium-ion batteries by simply not using them, of course. But nothing beats them for fast charging, high density, and long cycle, and calendar life. We wear safety glasses when our work risks our eyesight. Perhaps we should be more consciously careful, when using our lithium-ion-powered devices.
More Information
Two Ways to Make Lithium Batteries Safer
Two Reasons Why Lithium-Ion Batteries Fail