Lithium-ion battery dangers: The stats

Lithium-ion batteries have become an integral part of our modern lives, powering everything from smartphones and laptops to electric vehicles and industrial equipment. While these rechargeable power sources offer many benefits, they also come with inherent lithium-ion dangers which cannot be ignored. 

Here, we dive into the statistics and risks associated with lithium-ion batteries, shedding light on their prevalence, fire incidents, product recalls, causes of fire, injuries, fatalities, and transportation risks.

How dangerous are lithium-ion batteries?

The ubiquity of lithium-ion batteries is undeniable. These high-energy-density batteries are used in an array of everyday devices, including smartphones, laptops, tablets, power banks, e-cigarettes, power tools, and more. Their lightweight and efficient design has made them the go-to choice for portable power, resulting in billions of these batteries being manufactured and sold each year.

However, lithium-ion batteries have been linked to a growing number of fire incidents. While the majority of lithium-ion batteries are safe, the sheer volume in use means that even a small percentage of faulty or mishandled batteries can lead to a significant number of incidents. 

According to London Fire Brigade, fires caused by e-bikes became the capital’s fastest-growing fire trend in 2023. By the end of August last year, crews had fought 104 e-bike fires along with 19 e-scooter blazes. Three people lost their lives in fires believed to have been caused by a failure of an e-bike lithium-ion battery, while 51 people were injured.

Recall data

Product recalls due to battery-related incidents are also a matter of concern. There have been several instances in the UK this year, including Vanon Lithium-Ion Batteries in August and KS Energy KS-SB210 Lithium-ion battery seat base compact series in October. Recalls such as these often cite the risk of overheating, fire, or explosion as the reason, emphasising the urgency of addressing these issues.

Why are lithium-ion batteries dangerous?

Lithium-ion batteries can catch fire or explode due to several factors, including:

1. Overcharging: Overcharging can lead to a buildup of internal pressure within the battery, causing it to rupture or ignite.

2. Overheating: High temperatures can be a major factor in battery fires. Exposure to extreme heat or heat generated during charging can lead to thermal runaway, where the battery’s temperature rises uncontrollably.

3. Punctures: Physical damage or punctures to the battery can cause a short circuit, potentially leading to a fire or explosion.

4. Manufacturing defects: Faulty manufacturing processes can result in the production of unsafe batteries, increasing the likelihood of failure.

Injuries and fatalities

The dangers associated with lithium-ion batteries are not limited to property damage. Battery-related incidents have resulted in injuries and, tragically, fatalities. These injuries can include burns, smoke inhalation, and other severe injuries caused by fires or explosions. National figures show that 190 people have been injured in fires related to lithium-ion batteries in the UK since 2020, and 10 have proved fatal.

Studies by the National Library of Medicine also show that fluoride gas emissions from lithium-ion fires can pose a serious toxic threat – more dangerous than the heat itself – making personal protective equipment as important as fire safety equipment. 

Property damage is another significant concern, with fires caused by lithium-ion batteries leading to the destruction of homes, vehicles, and other valuable assets. There have been more than 300 incidents of lithium battery-related damage reported across the country in the past year.

Transportation risks

Lithium-ion batteries also pose specific transportation risks, especially in the context of air travel and cargo shipping. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) and other regulatory bodies have strict guidelines in place to mitigate the risks of transporting these batteries. Special precautions are taken to prevent short circuits, overheating, and fires during shipping, as even a single incident can have devastating consequences.

While lithium-ion batteries offer undeniable advantages in terms of power and efficiency, they are not without their risks. The prevalence of these batteries in everyday devices, combined with the potential for fire incidents, recalls, and transportation hazards, underscores the need for responsible manufacturing, handling, and disposal of these power sources.

As such, it’s crucial to be aware of the dangers associated with lithium-ion batteries and take precautions to ensure their safe usage. Fire trade suppliers and manufacturers must prioritise the development of safer battery technologies and adhere to stringent safety standards to minimise the risks associated with these powerful energy sources.

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