Explosions, fires and the like: Lithium-ion batteries are really that dangerous

Again and again there are news or terrifying videos in which batteries explode. No matter whether it is cell phones, headphones or hoverboards. Many wonder how dangerous lithium-ion batteries really are and how you can protect yourself against them.

That's how dangerous lithium-ion batteries are

After the debacle with the Galaxy Note 7, it feels like only a little time passes before other exploding devices are reported. Especially when handled incorrectly, batteries can be damaged by many devices such as cell phones and discharge in an explosion.

• Many technical devices such as cell phones are small, high-performance computers that combine a lot. Camera, navigation device, fitness tracker, game console - for many users, the smartphone is more than just a simple phone.
• If the device is damaged, there is an internal reaction that releases extreme heat very quickly. This can cause an explosion.
• The bigger the battery, the more violent the explosion. However, the explosion in a small battery can reach up to 1000 degrees Celsius.

How to recognize defective batteries

There are some signs that can be warning signs that your battery has already been damaged.

• If the device gets hot very quickly and frequently, this may be due to a damaged battery. In such a case, you should have your gadget checked by a specialist, for example customer service or a workshop employee.
• If the battery is inflated, you should contact a specialist as soon as possible or dispose of the battery properly.

Never charge the device in bed

Hang your smartphone or notebook on the power supply during evening surfing and then leave it to charge next to or even under your pillow during the night - this can end very dangerously, but many users do it every day.

• Your own body temperature, the build-up of heat under pillows and blankets - this can cause the device to overheat, which can cause the device to age faster and cause damage.
• This not only shortens the life of the device, but the battery performance can also noticeably decrease.
• Many smartphones have an emergency regulation: even before a critical overheating condition, it switches itself off. However, the optimal level of the battery level is not reached.
• This is the smallest evil: In addition to damage to the device, the high heat development can lead to explosions or fires, in which not only the device itself burns.
• Above all, the materials of the duvet, pillow, mattress, sheet and co. often serve as an optimal breeding ground for flames and thus as a source of fire.
• Injuries such as burns can also occur if the device is too close to the body.

This is how an explosion can be prevented

There are some circumstances that cause an explosion. Be careful not to expose your device to such conditions so that an accident cannot occur.

• Do not expose your gadget to excessive heat. Do not leave it in direct sunlight, nor should you leave it in a hot car.
• If you need to replace the battery, be sure to use original parts from the manufacturer. In particular, cheap batteries are not recommended.
• Be sure to take your smartphone out of your pocket before lying down to doze or sleep. There have been a number of cases in which smartphones have been heated up by body temperature to such an extent that the owners were injured.
• Avoid dropping the device. The battery can also be damaged by falls.
• If your smartphone is not waterproof, make sure that no water penetrates. Liquid in the device can lead to short circuits.
• Tip: If you switch on the flight mode, the minimal battery charges faster. If you leave the mode on overnight, it also protects it.
• Please note: Even if you follow all the tips and it is rare that lithium-ion batteries will explode, there is still a residual risk. The likelihood is very low, but damage or defects that can cause an explosion can occur during manufacture.