The increasing availability of cheap gadgets online is raising concerns about lithium-ion battery safety.
Electrical Safety First has warned consumers about the dangers of buying replacement lithium-ion batteries from third-party sellers on Amazon, after a laptop caught fire. While cheap batteries, charging cables and unbranded electronics containing lithium-ion batteries offer short-term financial savings, they pose substantial dangers.
In this guide we discuss what the dangers are and provide tips to help you choose safer lithium-ion battery products.
What are the dangers of cheap lithium-ion batteries?
Lithium-ion batteries make energy through the movement of lithium ions between two electrodes: a positive cathode and a negative anode. A gel-like electrolyte facilitates the movement of these ions, while a separator ensures the electrodes do not touch but allows ions to pass through.
If any part of this process is compromised it increases the likelihood of thermal runway, where a rapid, uncontrolled increase in temperature can cause a fire or explosion.
Substandard battery management systems (BMS)
A BMS is crucial for monitoring and controlling the performance of a lithium-ion battery. It monitors and balances a battery’s temperature, voltage and current, and sends alarm signals to the user if something is wrong. Low-quality lithium-ion batteries might either lack a BMS or have an inadequately designed one.
A low-quality BMS might not effectively monitor and control the battery’s functions, allowing conditions that can lead to overheating, overcharging, or deep discharging. This increases the risk of thermal runaway.
Design flaws
High-quality lithium-ion batteries incorporate safety features like battery management systems (see above), thermal fuses, pressure relief valves, and protection circuits to manage overcharge, over-discharge, and overheating. Low-quality batteries may lack these features, increasing the risk of thermal runaway.
Lithium-ion batteries must be designed to handle specific electrical loads and usage patterns. Poor design can result in overheating, overcharging, or mechanical stress which can cause a lithium-ion battery fire.
Manufacturing or handling defects
Low-quality products may have less rigorous quality control during manufacturing. This can lead to defects such as improper electrode coating, contaminants in the electrolyte, and poor assembly.
The use of inferior materials can compromise battery integrity. Low-quality separators, for instance, may fail to adequately prevent internal short circuits between the anode and cathode. These short circuits generate heat, potentially leading to thermal runaway.
Low-quality batteries are more prone to physical damage from drops or impacts, compromising their internal structure and safety.
Chemical instability
Impurities in the electrolyte can trigger unwanted chemical reactions, producing excessive heat or gas, which can cause the battery to catch fire.
Inadequate testing
Reputable manufacturers conduct extensive testing under various conditions to ensure safety. Low-quality products might bypass comprehensive testing, leaving potential issues unresolved.
Without proper safety circuits and a robust BMS, low-quality lithium-ion batteries are more susceptible to misuse, such as overcharging or deep discharging, both of which can lead to hazardous conditions.
Should you buy lithium-ion battery chargers from third-party sellers?
Bath & North East Somerset Council’s trading standards officers have warned people not to buy cheap replacement charging cables for their smartphones, tablets or laptops when it was found that out of 20 smartphone cables tested for safety, 16 failed.
The availability of poorly manufactured EV chargers is also causing alarm. What Car? magazine has warned people against buying EV charging cables from third-party sellers because their laboratory tests revealed serious risks of overheating and electric shock.
Here are the key reasons why an incorrect or poor-quality lithium-ion battery charger can cause a fire:
- Overcharging. Poor-quality chargers may not regulate voltage properly so the battery overcharges. Overcharging can cause the battery to heat up excessively, potentially leading to thermal runaway and a lithium-ion battery fire.
- Overheating. Inferior chargers often lack adequate cooling mechanisms or fail to manage heat effectively. Excessive heat can degrade the battery’s internal components and increase the risk of thermal runaway.
- Short circuits. Low-quality chargers might have poorly designed circuits or inadequate insulation. This can lead to short circuits, which can cause sparks, overheating, and fires.
- Faulty connections. Poor-quality chargers may have loose or poorly made connections. These faulty connections can increase resistance and generate heat, raising the risk of ignition.
- Incompatibility. Using an incorrect charger, such as one with the wrong voltage or current rating, can damage the battery’s internal circuitry. This damage can weaken the battery’s structure, making it more susceptible to overheating and fire.
- Substandard components. Poor-quality chargers often use substandard components that may not meet safety standards. These components can fail, causing voltage spikes or short circuits that can ignite the battery.
It is crucial to use chargers that are specifically designed for your device and comply with safety standards. Always choose reputable brands and avoid cheap, unbranded chargers to reduce the risk of lithium-ion battery fires (more about this below).
Are there laws to protect consumers?
The General Product Safety Regulations 2005 (GPSR) is a critical piece of legislation that aims to ensure products are safe to be sold to consumers.
Manufacturers, importers, and distributors of lithium-ion batteries must ensure their products meet the safety requirements stated in the General Product Safety Regulations 2005. This includes designing, manufacturing, and providing batteries that do not pose a risk to health and safety when used correctly.
However, despite the rigorous framework established by the GPSR, non-compliant lithium-ion battery products are still sold to UK customers.
The rise of online marketplaces and global trade makes it easier for counterfeit goods to enter the market. These platforms may not always have stringent checks in place to verify the compliance of products sold by third-party sellers.
Counterfeit products often do not comply with safety regulations because they are produced without regard for legal standards or consumer safety. These products can look similar to legitimate items but lack the safety features and certifications.
Modern supply chains are complex and often involve multiple intermediaries which makes it very difficult to track and ensure compliance at every stage.
How can you identify reputable brands and products?
When selecting lithium-ion batteries and lithium-ion battery products it is crucial to choose a reputable bland. Established manufacturers have stringent quality control measures and meet industry standards, reducing the risk of defective or unsafe batteries.
This is how you can identify reputable brands:
Research the brand
Look for brands with a long history and strong reputation in the lithium-ion battery industry. Reputable brands are often those that have invested significantly in research and development and have demonstrated consistent product quality over the years.
Some of the most well-known and respected brands in the market include:
- Panasonic. Known for high-quality and durable batteries used in various applications, from consumer electronics to electric vehicles.
- LG Chem. A leading supplier of lithium-ion batteries, particularly in the automotive industry, known for innovation and reliability.
- Samsung SDI. Offer a wide range of lithium-ion batteries with a strong focus on safety and performance.
- Sony. One of the pioneers in lithium-ion battery technology, with a reputation for high safety standards and reliable performance.
Read reviews and ratings
Customer reviews and ratings are valuable resources for assessing the performance and reliability of a brand’s products. Here is how to use them effectively:
- Platforms. Websites like Amazon, Best Buy, and specialist tech forums often feature detailed customer reviews.
- Ratings. Pay attention to overall ratings but also read through individual reviews to understand specific pros and cons mentioned by users.
- Consistency. Look for consistent feedback. If multiple reviewers mention the same pros and cons it is a more accurate indicator of a product’s performance.
- Expert reviews. In addition to customer reviews, consider expert reviews from technology websites and magazines. These reviews often include comprehensive testing and analysis, providing deeper insights into product safety and quality.
Check the manufacturer’s website
A reputable manufacturer will have a comprehensive and transparent online presence.
When evaluating a brand’s website, consider the following:
- Product specifications. The website should provide detailed specifications for each product, including capacity, voltage, dimensions, and weight. This information helps you compare different products and establish whether they are suitable for your needs.
- Safety standards. Look for information on the safety standards and certifications the products comply with (see ‘Understand product safety certifications and labels’ below).
- Transparency. A trustworthy brand will be transparent about its manufacturing processes, safety measures, and quality control procedures. Look for detailed explanations and documentation.
- Support and warranties. Check if the brand offers customer support, warranties, and return policies. Good after-sales support is a hallmark of a reputable manufacturer.
- Company information. Ensure the website provides comprehensive information about the company, including its history, mission, and values. A well-established company will have a clear and professional online presence.
Be wary of products from brands with little to no online presence or those that provide scant information.
Understand product safety certifications and labels
Product safety certifications and labels are key indicators of battery safety and quality. Knowing how to interpret these labels can help you make informed choices.
CE marking
The CE mark signifies that a product complies with European Union (EU) legislation and meets essential requirements for safety, health, and environmental protection. This marking is mandatory for products sold within the European Economic Area (EEA).
Look for the ‘CE’ symbol on the battery or its packaging. This symbol should be clearly visible, legible, and permanent.
IEC 62133 certification
The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) 62133 standard is one of the most important safety standards for lithium-ion batteries.
This certification covers the safety requirements for the design and manufacturing of lithium-ion batteries, including mechanical and electrical safety aspects. It ensures that batteries are designed to prevent risks such as overheating, short-circuiting, and electrical malfunctions.
Look for the IEC 62133 mark or a mention of compliance on the battery’s technical specifications or packaging.
UN38.3 compliance
UN38.3 certification ensures that lithium-ion batteries can safely withstand air transport conditions.
Batteries must pass a series of tests simulating air transport conditions, including altitude simulation, thermal test, vibration, shock, external short circuit, impact, overcharge, and forced discharge.
Manufacturers usually include a statement of compliance with UN38.3 on the product documentation or packaging. This certification is crucial for batteries that will be shipped or transported by air.
RoHS compliance
The Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) directive limits the use of specific hazardous materials in electrical and electronic products.
RoHS compliance ensures that the battery does not contain more than the allowed levels of hazardous substances like lead, mercury, cadmium, hexavalent chromium, and certain flame retardants. This is crucial for both user safety and environmental protection.
Products compliant with RoHS often have a ‘RoHS’ symbol or a statement of compliance on their packaging or documentation.
Reduce the risks with lithium-ion battery safety training
Our comprehensive lithium-ion battery safety training empowers participants with the knowledge to recognise and mitigate the risks associated with lithium-ion batteries.
Understanding and applying simple preventative measures protects lives and prevents expensive damage to property and the environment. Discover more about lithium-ion battery safety training on our website or contact our friendly team who will be happy to answer any questions you may have.
