The lithium ion battery bulging, also known as bulges, is usually caused by gas accumulation due to internal chemical reactions, leading to deformation of the battery casing.
This expansion phenomenon may damage the structural integrity of the battery, posing a risk of leakage, fire, and even explosion.
Properly handling these swollen batteries is extremely important to avoid environmental risks and personal injury.
Table of Contents
Why do lithium battery bulge?
Why does lithium battery swell?
Expanded lithium-ion batteries or lithium polymer (LiPo) batteries may experience expansion due to internal chemical reactions.
This expansion is usually caused by overcharging, physical damage, or improper handling, and environmental factors such as humidity and high temperature may also contribute to expansion.
Understanding these causes of expansion can help prevent risks such as leaks, fires, and explosions, and ensure safe handling of expanded lithium batteries.
Packaging issue:
If moisture seeps into the battery cells during the production process, it may cause electrolyte reactions and produce gases.
Excessive moisture content in battery cells:
Excessive moisture content in battery cells may cause electrolyte reactions and produce gases.
Corrosion issue:
Corrosion of the casing of lithium polymer batteries may damage the waterproof layer and cause expansion.
Surface damage:
Damage caused by external forces or punctures may allow moisture to seep into the battery cell. Lithium is highly reactive when in contact with air and may trigger severe oxidation reactions.
Impact effect:
Aluminum materials are prone to deformation, and larger battery cells are more likely to form air pockets and be damaged.
Short circuit problem:
Electrode contact may cause a short circuit, leading to battery expansion and even smoking.
Overcharging/Over discharging:
Overcharging or discharging, if the protective board fails, may cause significant expansion of the battery cells.
How to deal with lithium battery puffy?
Safe handling methods for lithium batteries:
It is crucial to take isolation and safety measures when dealing with swollen lithium polymer (LiPo) batteries.
These batteries may pose a serious danger due to potential leaks, fires, or explosions.
Isolation:
Place the expanded lithium polymer battery in a safe and controlled environment to minimize the risk of accidents.
Always wear appropriate protective equipment, such as gloves and goggles, to avoid direct contact with any leaked chemicals.
Safety measures:
Ensure good ventilation in the processing area and keep away from flammable materials and sources of ignition.
Handle expansion batteries with caution to prevent accidents from occurring.
Transportation and storage:
Special care should be taken during transportation to prevent accidents from occurring.
Use fire-resistant containers and store in a cool and dry place, avoiding direct sunlight and heat sources.
Precautions for operation:
Avoid storing multiple expansion batteries together to reduce the risk of accidents.
Handle and transport this type of battery separately.
Recycling Plan:
Using professional battery recycling services or receiving facilities for damaged lithium batteries is a safe and responsible way of handling.
Many recycling centers have the professional knowledge and resources to safely handle damaged batteries and prevent environmental pollution.
Collection Center:
Find a recycling center specialized in handling damaged or swollen lithium polymer batteries.
These centers are typically equipped with specialized equipment and procedures to handle and dispose of damaged batteries in an environmentally friendly manner.
DIY guide for swollen li ion battery
Dealing with swollen lithium polymer (LiPo) batteries may be a challenge, but if you have the relevant knowledge and take cautious measures, you can safely solve this problem on your own.
Puncture:
Puncturing batteries is a potentially dangerous but feasible method, limited to experienced personnel using appropriate safety equipment in controlled environments.
It should be carried out in an area that is fire-resistant and isolated from flammable materials.
Discharge:
After puncture, discharge should be done slowly and safely to reduce the risk of fire or combustion.
The battery can be immersed in salt water or sand to eliminate potential fire hazards.
Neutralizing chemicals:
When dealing with damaged lithium polymer batteries, there may be chemical leakage or exposure.
Using baking soda or other alkaline substances to carefully neutralize spilled electrolytes can help neutralize their acidity and reduce their potential hazards.
Preventive measures:
Be cautious when handling any spilled chemicals.
Wear appropriate protective equipment such as gloves and goggles to prevent direct contact.
Container:
After discharging and neutralizing, place the battery in a fireproof container.
Metal containers with tight lids help prevent any potential fires or leaks during storage or transportation.
Transportation:
Make sure to store the container in a cool place, away from direct sunlight or heat sources.
If possible, transport the container to a hazardous waste disposal facility that can handle damaged or hazardous batteries.
Conclusion
When properly handling swollen lithium polymer batteries, safety and environmental protection are the primary considerations.
Isolating batteries, implementing safety measures, proper transportation, and implementing recycling plans are crucial for preventing accidents, reducing environmental pollution, and avoiding personal injury.
Always follow the recommended handling guidelines, and seek professional assistance if unsure about how to handle damaged batteries.
Partial Frequently Asked Questions and Answers
How to deal with the expansion of lithium batteries?
Proper handling of swollen lithium batteries is crucial, and puncture or improper disposal should be avoided.
It is recommended to store them safely in fire-resistant containers and seek suitable recycling methods or professional disposal services.
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How to safely discharge lithium polymer batteries?
Take appropriate safety measures and use professional discharge equipment or low-power loads to discharge lithium polymer batteries until the battery voltage drops to a safe range.
What are the consequences if a lithium polymer battery is punctured?
Piercing lithium polymer batteries may cause internal short circuits, which may lead to thermal runaway, overheating, and even fire. Immediately leave the area and seek professional assistance.
How to deal with a broken lithium battery?
If the lithium battery is found to be broken or damaged, gloves should be worn carefully and it should be placed in a fireproof container. Next, contact the local waste disposal center or recycling station to ensure proper disposal.
Measures to address the expansion of lithium-ion batteries:
Once the expansion phenomenon of lithium-ion batteries is found, caution should be taken.
Safely isolate and store it in a fire-resistant container to avoid puncturing or improper handling.
Be sure to contact the local recycling agency or processing facility to ensure that the batteries are properly and safely disposed of.
How to properly handle damaged lithium polymer batteries?
Improper handling of damaged lithium polymer batteries may pose safety hazards.
It should be safely placed in a fire-resistant container and sent to a recycling station with the ability to handle damaged batteries.
During the operation, please ensure to wear appropriate protective equipment to prevent contact with any harmful chemicals.
Can I handle the swollen lithium battery on my own?
Although utilizing professional recycling services is the safest approach, some people may prefer to handle it themselves.
However, appropriate preventive measures must be taken to avoid fires or exposure to harmful chemicals.
What are the effects of keeping lithium iron phosphate (LiPo) batteries fully charged?
Long term maintenance of lithium iron phosphate batteries in a fully charged state can accelerate their performance degradation and may reduce the battery’s lifespan.
It is recommended to maintain the battery capacity of lithium iron phosphate batteries at around 50% during long-term storage to ensure optimal health.
