Student Tribune
Safe Handling, Storage & Disposal of Lithium-Ion Batteries
SAFE HANDLING, STORAGE & DISPOSAL OF LITHIUM-ION BATTERIES
Lithium-ion batteries (also referred to as Li-ion battery or LIB) come in
all shapes and sizes and are found everywhere--in laptop computers, cameras,
cell phones, rechargeable tools, and electric cars. The tiny flat button type
are in everything from remote controls to toys and decorations. Lithium-ion
rechargeable batteries are the most popular type of rechargeable batteries
because they provide more energy and hold their charge much better than older
types.
Though there are many positives to lithium batteries, one of the few
negatives is that they need to be treated with particular care as a number of
external and internal conditions can cause these batteries to short, start a
fire or even explode. Lithium batteries are made to deliver high output with
minimal weight. Their components are designed to be lightweight, which
translates to thin partitions between cells and a thin outer covering, which
are fairly fragile. If the covering is punctured, a short can occur. The
resulting spark can ignite the highly reactive lithium.
Another danger is overheating of the battery. If heated to the point of
"thermal runaway", the contents of the battery can exert sufficient pressure to
produce an explosion, releasing heat. Overheating can occur when the battery
terminals come in contact with metal or with other battery terminals,
conducting electricity that drains the battery quickly and creates excessive
heat.
Unlike consumer alkaline batteries (AA, AAA, C, D), different sized lithium
button batteries cannot be stored together because they can react with one
another. Larger button batteries can overload smaller ones and cause them to
bulge and burst. Once burst they release heat and if enough batteries are
stored together, a fire can result.
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
For maximum safety, please take the following precautions when handling and
storing lithium batteries or devices containing lithium batteries:
- Whether storing unused ones, or collecting them to be recycled, lithium-ion
batteries must be in their original packaging, placed in a plastic bag or
wrapped in plastic wrap to avoid contact between the battery terminals and
metal or other battery terminals. Never store batteries in a metal
container.
- Keep away from heat producing sources. Avoid direct exposure to sunlight.
Do not leave them in a hot vehicle.
- Don't cover or enclose lithium battery containing devices; they need to be
well ventilated to avoid heat build-up. Extreme heat may also result in a loss
of performance and a shortened life expectancy.
- Avoid water and condensation. Internal condensation or moisture can cause
the battery to short circuit.
- Avoid physical abuse that can damage batteries. Excessive force should not
be used to insert or remove batteries from a device. Be careful not to drop,
strike, crush or stack heavy objects on top of lithium batteries or lithium
battery containing devices.
- For accidental swallowing of a button lithium battery, do not induce
vomiting. Go immediately to the emergency room and provide the doctor with the
identification number from the battery's package if possible.
DISPOSING OF LITHIUM-ION BATTERIES
Though lithium-ion batteries are less toxic than many types of batteries,
they still need to be recycled... BUT not in your regular blue recycling bin!
Lithium is a highly reactive element. It is especially risky when lithium-ion
batteries end up in the back of a recycling truck surrounded by paper and
cardboard. Pressure or heat, especially during the summer, can cause them to
spark. In fact, lithium-ion batteries are one of the most common fire starters
in recycling trucks! To avoid fires caused by lithium-ion batteries, recycle
them properly. Home Depot, Lowes, and Best Buy stores nationwide will accept
spent lithium-ion batteries.
For information on how to properly dispose of lithium-ion batteries at MCC,
please contact the Environmental Health and Safety Office at x3150 or email
smarini2@monroecc.edu.
Marini, Sharon
Environmental Health & Safety
02/11/2019