10 Best Ways to Store Lithium Batteries Safety

Lithium batteries are increasingly popular due to their high capacity and absence of the memory effect.

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If lithium batteries are not stored or maintained properly, they may be damaged or could potentially cause fires, explosions, and other serious incidents. Therefore, how can we ensure the safe storage of lithium batteries?

Part 1. Lithium Battery Storage Warehouse

Warehouses dedicated to lithium battery storage must adhere to the following safety protocols.

1. Lithium batteries and battery packs are classified as hazardous materials. To ensure safe handling and transportation, all lithium batteries and packs must comply with the UN38.3 test.

2. Given the unique properties of lithium batteries, the storage environment should be maintained between 18-25°C. (This temperature range should also be upheld during testing). Higher temperatures accelerate the degradation of battery capacity.

When stored at room temperature or cooler, over 90% of the remaining capacity can be retained after 54 months.

3. It's crucial to regulate humidity levels within the lithium battery storage facility. Avoid exposing the warehouse to extreme humidity (above 90% or below 40%) for prolonged periods.

4. Lithium storage facilities should be physically separated by brick walls and utilize closed, explosion-proof, or other secure electrical lighting systems.

5. Areas housing flammable and explosive items must be equipped with an adequate assortment and quantity of firefighting equipment, all maintained in proper operating condition. (A dry powder fire extinguisher should accompany a fire bucket filled with water for emergencies.)
6. Activities involving fireworks or smoking must be strictly prohibited in areas where lithium batteries are present.
7. Stacking flammable and explosive materials in close proximity to the storage environment is strictly forbidden.

Part 2. Lithium Battery Storage Environment

1. Store lithium batteries in a dry, well-ventilated, and cool setting. High temperatures and humidity can damage batteries and deteriorate their surfaces.
2. Do not over-stack lithium battery cartons. Excessive stacking can deform the bottom layers, risk battery leakage, and create safety hazards.
3. Ensure that batteries are kept away from direct sun exposure and rain. Water exposure can decrease insulation resistance, possibly leading to self-discharge and rusting.
4. Avoid random stacking of batteries to prevent short circuits or other forms of damage.
5. Store items that could combust or explode upon contact separately from batteries, particularly those that require different firefighting methods.

Part 3. How to Transport Lithium Batteries Safely

• Carefully handle lithium batteries to prevent them from falling or being damaged.
• Consider load, stacking, and directionality when moving lithium batteries.
• When using forklifts or carts, load heavier items first and lighter ones later. Handle loading and unloading with caution to avoid damaging the battery circuits.

Part 4. 10 Best Ways to Store Lithium Batteries

1. If a lithium battery is not in use for an extended period, keep it charged between 50% and 60%. Perform a supplemental charge every three months and charge/discharge every six months.
2. During transport, protect lithium batteries from moisture, as well as from physical stressors like crushing or impacts, to avoid damage.
3. Never use or store lithium batteries in high temperatures (such as direct sunlight or in hot vehicles) as this can cause overheating, fires, malfunctions, and reduce battery lifespan.
4. Avoid storing batteries in locations with strong static electricity or magnetic fields, as this can impair the battery's safety mechanisms, creating potential risks.
5. If a battery emits unusual smells, heats up, changes color, deforms, or shows abnormal signs during use, storage, or charging, immediately disconnect it from devices or chargers and cease usage.
6. The storage area for lithium battery cells and packs should be designated separately. The area must prominently display a 'No Fireworks' sign. It's prohibited to pile flammable items nearby.
7. Batteries and cells should be under surveillance with smoke and temperature alarms, which should communicate alerts to a monitored location 24/7.
8. Store batteries neatly without excessive stacking. Facilities should consist of non-combustible materials, incorporating anti-static precautions.
9. The temperature in battery storage areas should maintain between 20±5°C, with a maximum of 30°C and humidity not exceeding 75%. Ensure the area is clean, dry, well-ventilated, and free from other materials.
10. Wrap discarded lithium batteries with insulating paper around the electrodes to prevent fires and explosions.

Part 5. Managing Dangerous Lithium Batteries

What to Do if a Lithium Battery Becomes Hot?

Under regular charging and discharging operations, lithium batteries generate heat, typically below 60 degrees. However, in cases of a short circuit, internal or external, temperatures can reach dangerous levels.

In such instances, isolate the lithium battery and place it in sand. Avoid direct contact with the battery, as it may cause burns, and wait until the battery cools before disposal.

What Should You Do if a Lithium Battery Catches Fire or Explodes?

A lithium battery fire or explosion is dangerous, and individuals must evacuate the area. A burning battery may not emit an open flame, but under protective measures, if only one or a few batteries combust, they can be smothered with sand. For large fires, first cool the area with water, then extinguish the flames with a dry powder extinguisher.

Part 6. Conclusion

Lithium batteries find application in numerous consumer electronics, such as mobile phones, power banks, and electric vehicles, thanks to their high energy density, extended lifespan, and compact form. However, they require stringent environment control due to their highly reactive chemical nature.

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Even minor oversights (like short circuits, excessive heat, crushing, or overcharging) can result in lithium battery explosions. Therefore, it is imperative to implement rigorous storage and management methods for lithium-ion batteries and follow appropriate safety protocols during their usage and storage.

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Gerald

Electronic Engineering Writer