Lithium-ion (or Li-ion) batteries are one of the most popular types of battery used today. They power some of our most used items, such as mobile phones and cars. Why do we love them so much? They’re re-chargeable, have high energy efficiency, and a long lifespan. However, they are highly flammable.
In 2023, the London Fire Brigade were called to a li-ion battery fire once every two days. Li-ion battery fires can escalate quickly and cause extremely severe damage.
So, why does this happen?
Battery Failure
Li-ion batteries are known to overheat: this happens when the battery begins to fail, and thermal runaway occurs.
Thermal runaway is a process that is accelerated by an increase in temperature, in turn releasing energy that creates more heat, and ultimately becomes uncontrollable. This results in smoke and fire.
Li-ion battery failure can be caused by multiple factors, for example:
- Thermal (overheating)
- Electrical (overcharging)
- Mechanical abuse
You can reduce the risk of li-ion battery fires by:
- Only charge your device with the charger it is supplied with.
- Do not leave your device in direct sunlight, and keep away from flammable materials.
- Don’t leave your device to charge overnight, or when you are out.
- If your battery swells, starts smoking, or gets too hot to touch, safely remove it and contact appropriate authorities.
How to tell if a Lithium-ion battery is failing?
- Overheating: if you notice a battery feels too hot to touch, it may be defective.
- Bulging or misshapen: a swollen battery is one of the most common signs of battery failure. The battery may also leak.
- Noise: a hissing or crackling sound.
- Poor performance: if your battery can no longer fully charge, or takes a very long time to charge, it may be defective.
- Smoke: smoke is a sign that your battery has reached thermal runaway and a fire is imminent.
What to do if your Lithium-ion battery is failing
If you notice your lithium-ion battery is showing signs of failings, immediately turn off the device and unplug it from power. If the device starts smoking or catches fire, immediately evacuate and sound the fire alarm, and call the emergency services.
Li-ion Tamer Gas Detection
Li-ion Tamer Gas Detection was designed to prevent lithium-ion batteries from breaking out in energy storage systems. The device works by identifying when thermal runaway begins and sending out an alert, so the facility manager can react quickly and efficiently to prevent an incident.