Lithium Batteries: Impactful in Many Ways

Let’s give lithium batteries their due. They store large amounts of energy in small, compact forms; provide power and hold a charge under storage for extended periods of time; have lengthy lifespans; can be quickly recharged; require no maintenance; and perform better at cold temperatures than lead-acid batteries.    They are prominent in many household items: laptops/tablets; power tools; digital cameras; game controllers; and electric cars, bikes, and scooters, to name a few.    Lithium batteries can also combust and explode, resulting in serious injury or death. Statistically speaking, this is a rarity, but news headlines over the past 20+ years are evidence that the problem can’t be overlooked. A phenomenon called “thermal runaway” is at the heart of the matter. Thermal runaway occurs when a lithium battery’s internal temperature and pressure rise more quickly than can be dissipated, eventually leading to combustion and possibly explosions.
Lithium battery fires burn intensely, sometimes reaching 1,500°F, and are difficult to extinguish — water and fire extinguishers are typically ineffective and might make things worse. Upon combustion, toxic gases are also released. Even when a fire appears to be extinguished, lithium batteries are notorious for reigniting. Explosions can cause devastating shrapnel injuries to anyone in the vicinity.

Physical damage to a battery (e.g., dropping, crushing, puncturing), using an incompatible charger, charging a battery too long, subjecting a battery to extreme temperatures, and design and manufacturing defects can trigger lithium battery fires, as can saltwater (corrosion and short-circuiting). In the wake of Hurricane Helene, Florida reported over 60 lithium battery–related fires caused by storm-surge flooding.

There is engineering underway to develop a new kind of lithium battery that avoids this hazard, but until that product is rolled out to the consumers, if you suffer harm due to a defective product, contact our firm to protect your rights.