There are so many stories of lithium-ion batteries doing the rounds, we may consider using other battery chemistries. However, the truth of the matter is lithium-ion batteries are more powerful, and that’s convincing in our era of instant gratification. This may only leave us the option of using lithium-ion batteries with care for our high-tech applications, until scientists come up with something better.
Using Lithium-Ion Batteries Carefully
Matthew Priestley from University of New South Wales, Australia, is a man on a mission. He would like to stem the increasing number of lithium-ion battery fires, by sharing ways of using these batteries correctly.
We have already published several posts leading up this one, and you might like to refer to the links below. The simplest way, in a nutshell, is to store lithium-ion batteries thoughtfully, and use them correctly.
Managing Heat to Avoid Thermal Runaway
Now we understand that heat is the enemy of lithium-ion batteries, it makes sense not to expose them to high temperatures. This includes avoiding leaving the batteries in sunlight for long periods, or near a radiator, fire, or other heat source.
Charging is another issue, because battery internal resistance generates heat. Overcharging, or keeping them on charge permanently, aggravates this situation. Reputable lithium-ion batteries should have management systems that help prevent this occurring.
The amount of internal battery friction depends on the volts and the current we put in. Delivering too much of either, can increase the internal friction and heat. Using lithium-ion batteries with care includes setting up the charger to prevent this happening.
And finally, we should be extra careful to avoid damaging a lithium-ion battery in other ways too. We should never drop it, or penetrate it with a sharp object. Attempting to dismantle a lithium-ion battery is dangerous, and that’s a fact!
More Information
Are Safe Lithium-Ion Batteries Possible?
