Matthew Priestly from the University of New South Wales, believes we need to show more more respect for lithium-ion batteries. They may have become widespread and popular, he continues, but consumers need to be better educated. The answer to the concern are safe lithium-ion batteries possible, is straightforward in his mind. Not entirely, but safer when consumers understand them better.
We Dedicate This Short Series to Safer Lithium-Ion Batteries
It may seem strange for a lead-acid battery manufacturer to want to improve the safety of its competitors’ products. We all have our places in the market, but we have an over-arching concern about consumer safety. This is why we pose the question, are safe lithium-ion batteries possible?
The best place to start is to know where lithium-ion batteries are at home, at work, and when we are out and about. This will make it easier to monitor them for warning signs, although the statistics are low that we will ever experience these signs personally.
Lithium-ion batteries are almost everywhere we go. They may power our phones, laptops, smart wearables, gadgets, power tools, and camping and gardening equipment.
They may also be the power behind electric vehicles, e-bikes, e-scooters, mobility scooters and motorized wheelchairs too. And perhaps store the energy in our backups, power banks, and solar power systems. We say ‘perhaps’, because our lead-acid batteries are worthy alternatives in a variety of these applications.
Why Have Lithium-Ion Batteries Suddenly Become a Problem?
The risk of lithium-ion batteries causing fires has always been there. Although the probability has increased with high density and fast charging. As the number of lithium-ion batteries increases, so will the frequency of incidents too. This is why battery experts are increasingly asking, are safe lithium-ion batteries possible?
We explore the reasons behind lithium-ion battery failure in our next post. As a general rule of thumb, you can reduce your slight risk by purchasing lithium-ion batteries from a reputable supplier. And avoid charging them over 90%, while not allowing their charge to fall below 20% either.
More Information
Fast Charging Lithium-Ion Batteries
Don’t Deep Discharge Lithium-Ion Batteries
