What causes lithium ion batteries to explode?

What causes lithium ion batteries to explode?

by Josh Kirschner for Techlicious

Our friends from Techlicious provide additional information on the volatility of lithium ion laptop batteries.–PC Pitstop.



Lithium ion fires are also difficult to put out. Throwing water on one can actually makes matters worse. Experts recommend a Class D commercial fire extinguisher, not something most of us have sitting around the house.

UPDATE 8/9/2013: Reports from the Fire Prevention Research Institute and the FAA indicate that lithium ion battery fires do not require a Class D extinguisher—water works effectively to extinguish the flames and cool the cells to prevent further thermal runaway (thank you to Mark Rogers, Director, Dangerous Goods Programs for the Air Line Pilots Association for bringing the FAA report to my attention). If your device is plugged into an electrical outlet, it may be wise to unplug it, if possible, prior to extinguishing with water.

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7 thoughts on “What causes lithium ion batteries to explode?

  1. My Windows 8.1 “lap-tab” has a “Conservation” power setting that stops charging the battery if the battery is > 60% charged. It is recommended if the unit is to remain plugged into the charger. This improves battery life and also minimizes the chance of fire, as the battery cannot be overcharged.

  2. Very interesting video could you do one concerning thees BATTRIES when used with Amateur radio hand sets as a radio amateur exam secretary and instructor for the amateur licence in the UK at our club I’m sure all would be interested

  3. I purchased my wife a Dell laptop and I am cautious about the battery. Should I keep it plugged in to the charger? Will this cause it to explode? I read your article and now I am really paranoid about the battery.
    Do you have any suggestions? I enjoy your articles.

    • @s f guidry: The likelihood that a battery in your laptop will catch on fire is extremely small, unless the battery has been damaged by force, heat, water, etc. So I wouldn’t be concerned about it.

      However, there is another good reason to remove the battery. Having the battery in your laptop will degrade the battery life over time. So if the laptop is continuously plugged in, it’s better to remove the battery and store it in a cool place. Just remember to charge it if you need to take your laptop ion the road!

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