Lithium-ion battery fires are breaking out across Australia and elsewhere at an increasing rate. Is this because that nation is embracing renewable energy faster than most other nations? Nobody could have expected this development, because lithium-ion technology is safe, all things being equal. The Guardian news channel says we should hold that thought, because all batteries are not that similar.
Similar Causes in Different Lithium-Ion Battery Shapes
Lithium-ion batteries come in different shapes, including rectangular, pouch, cylindrical, and penny button disc. As Prof Amanda Ellis at University of Melbourne says, “Overall, they’re actually very safe if they’re operated correctly.” And therein lies the sting, consumer oversights creep in.
You see, all batteries are not that similar in terms of quality either, although we may overlook this factor in favor of a cheaper price. Lithium batteries are popular on account of quick energy delivery, fast charging, and long battery life. So why then do lithium-ion batteries catch fire?
Lithium Batteries Catch Fire Because of Similar Electrolyte
All lithium-ion batteries have a liquid lithium-salt electrolyte in an organic solvent. Individual battery makers may tweak this electrolyte with additives. However, it this electrolyte overheats, then it becomes unstable and may burst the battery case and burn.
Recharging a lithium battery by passing energy through it causes its contents to become warmer. This is normal, and no reason to become alarmed. However, if the battery or charger is faulty. and allows too much energy to pass through, then the lithium battery will become hot.
Fire and heat have an ability to spawn more heat and fire. In lithium-ion batteries we call this spread thermal runaway. The liquid lithium-salt electrolyte expands until it reaches a point when the casing explodes open. Air rushes in. The liquid electrolyte bursts in flames releasing temperature as high as 500°C (932°F)
All Batteries Are Not the Same or Similar
Nowhere is that saying truer than in the lithium-ion battery industry. The scenario we sketched above, should not occur in a quality battery with a thermal management cut-off. Lithium-ion battery fires are rare, but they do occur. All batteries are not the same. Be prepared to pay more for quality.
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