What are Lithium batteries?

Lithium batteries are a type of battery for storing electricity. These batteries use the element lithium in the chemistry of the battery and are often popular because of their energy density compared to other types of batteries. They are found in many modern electronics, such as mobile phones and laptops as well as larger batteries found in scooters, bikes, and electric cars. Multiple lithium batteries can be connected together to form a larger battery. The individual batteries are referred to as cells in these multi-battery packs.

Lithium Battery Types

Lithium batteries have different chemical and physical composition, but all use either ionic or metal forms of lithium.

Lithium metal non-rechargeable batteries

Made with lithium metal and are commonly used in products such as keyless entry , watches, remote controls, handheld games and smoke detectors. These batteries may be difficult to distinguish from common alkaline battery sizes, but can also have specialized shapes (e.g., button cells or coin batteries) for specific equipment, such as some types of cameras: look for the word “lithium” on the battery to help identify them.

Lithium-Polymer and Lithium-Ion cells (Li-Po, Liion cells) batteries are rechargeable.

Commonly found in cellphones, power tools, digital cameras, laptops, children’s toys, e-cigarettes, small and large appliances, tablets and e-readers. Some Li-ion batteries can be removed easily from the products they power, others cannot.

Hazard of Lithium Batteries

In their normal state, lithium batteries are stable and safe to use. However, if they are damaged, made of low-quality materials, used or charged incorrectly, or assembled /
installed incorrectly they can cause serious injury and damage. This is because lithium is a highly reactive element and can result in hazards not associated with more common
alkaline batteries.

Electrical shock

Multiple small batteries can be connected together to create higher voltage and amperage. Short circuits can shock or electrocute people.

Fire

Lithium is highly reactive and easily combusts and catches fire. Lithium battery fires often occur when the battery is damaged or overcharged. Physical damage can occur while
the battery is in use or if it is improperly disposed of in regular solid waste streams.

Thermal runaway

A short circuit can rapidly discharge and degrade the battery which then creates a violent exothermic chain reaction. In multi-battery packs, when one battery overheats it can lead to other batteries overheating and possible catching on fire. This can also occur when multiple batteries are stored or charged next to each other.

Precautions

It is important to purchase and use devices, batteries, and chargers that have been tested and certified by a Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory such as UL.

Storage

Store lithium batteries in the temperature range the manufacturer recommends. Exposing batteries to temperatures that are too hot or cold can cause damage. If you do not know the recommended temperature range, keep the battery at normal room temperatures. Extreme heat can degrade and damage the battery, increasing the risk of a fire.
If batteries are damaged (e.g. Image 1.), remove them from service. Contact HSRM for disposal instructions.

Charging

Not every battery charger can be used with each battery. Only use battery chargers compatible with the battery being charged. Battery chargers are designed to monitor the battery charge level, and using a battery charger that is not compatible with the battery being charged can lead to an overcharging situation that can cause a fire.

Disconnect lithium battery powered devices or batteries from chargers once they are fully recharged.

In areas where lithium powered devices or batteries are regularly charged, it is recommend to have a fire extinguishing device nearby. This can include:

• ABC Dry chemical extinguisher
• Class D Fire Extinguisher (for lithium-metal)
• Sand

Disposal

Lithium batteries and lithium battery containing devices cannot be disposed of in normal trash containers. Trash compactors may damage a lithium battery, causing it to catch fire.

• Dispose of lithium batteries and lithium battery containing devices in used battery buckets throughout campus.
• This includes items like e-cigarettes/vapes, cell phones, or other lithium battery powered devices.
• Use clear tape to cover battery terminals to prevent short circuiting leading to a fire.
• Tape both ends of small batteries.

Mailing and Shipping

Lithium batteries are considered hazardous materials, and have restrictions on how they can be shipped and transported. This may include additional shipping labels and packing materials based on the lithium battery type, voltage, construction, and restrictions on the method of transportation. Improperly shipping hazardous materials could result in fines. For questions contact [email protected].

Additional Resources

National Fire Protection Agency
• Lithium-Ion Battery Safety