High temperatures can kill a lithium-ion battery. Overheating disrupts its chemical structure and may cause thermal runaway. Common causes are environmental factors like leaving the battery in a hot car or internal issues such as a short circuit or a malfunctioning device. Proper handling is crucial for battery safety.
Another risk involves short circuits, which happen when the battery terminals contact each other directly. This situation can cause sparks or fires, particularly if the battery is housed in flimsy materials. Additionally, exposure to high temperatures can degrade battery performance and safety, making proper storage essential.
To avoid these hazards, users should follow manufacturer guidelines. Always use compatible chargers and avoid extreme temperatures. Inspect batteries regularly for signs of damage, such as swelling or leakage. Proper disposal is crucial as well; recycling programs can manage old batteries safely.
Understanding these risks helps mitigate dangers. In the next section, we will explore emerging technologies that aim to enhance lithium-ion battery safety. These innovations can reduce risks and promote a more secure usage experience.
What Factors Can Kill a Lithium-Ion Battery?
Factors that can kill a lithium-ion battery include:
- Overcharging
- Deep discharging
- High temperatures
- Low temperatures
- Physical damage
- Age and wear
- Chemical degradation
Overcharging:
Overcharging kills a lithium-ion battery when it exceeds its voltage limit. This process generates excessive heat, leading to thermal runaway. According to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, continuously charging a battery beyond its designated voltage can harm its internal chemistry. For instance, a smartphone battery may swell and leak if subjected to prolonged overcharging.
Deep Discharging:
Deep discharging occurs when a lithium-ion battery is drained below its recommended voltage. This situation can lead to irreversible chemical changes inside the battery. A study published in “Journal of Power Sources” noted that frequent deep discharges can shorten a battery’s lifespan significantly.
High Temperatures:
High temperatures can accelerate the degradation of lithium-ion batteries. Elevated heat causes increased internal resistance and gas generation, leading to swelling and failure. Research published by the Journal of Electrochemical Society highlighted that batteries stored or used at temperatures above 60°C can suffer substantial capacity loss over time.
Low Temperatures:
Low temperatures can also impair battery performance. When exposed to frigid conditions, a battery’s ability to deliver power diminishes. The internal resistance increases, making it harder for the battery to provide energy. According to a report by the University of California, testing batteries at -20°C showed a reduction of up to 50% in capacity.
Physical Damage:
Physical damage from impacts or punctures can breach a lithium-ion battery’s casing. This exposure may lead to short circuits or chemical leaks. Extensive testing has shown that damaged batteries can ignite or explode, posing severe safety risks, as evidenced by incidents in various consumer electronics.
Age and Wear:
Age and wear influence the performance of lithium-ion batteries over time. As batteries cycle through charge and discharge processes, their internal chemistry degrades. According to a study from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, batteries can lose up to 20% of their capacity after just a couple of years of regular use.
Chemical Degradation:
Chemical degradation occurs as materials within the battery breakdown over time. This phenomenon is often accelerated by high temperatures or extended storage at full charge. Researchers from Stanford University found that the efficiency of lithium-ion batteries can diminish due to the formation of lithium plating and other byproducts over multiple charge cycles.
Awareness of these factors can help users prolong the lifespan and safety of lithium-ion batteries. It’s essential to follow best practices, such as avoiding extremes in temperature, refraining from deep discharges, and managing charge cycles carefully.
How Does Overheating Contribute to Lithium-Ion Battery Failure?
Overheating contributes to lithium-ion battery failure by damaging the internal components. High temperatures increase chemical reactions inside the battery. This destabilizes the electrolyte, which is the medium through which ions move. As the electrolyte degrades, the battery experiences reduced efficiency and capacity.
Furthermore, overheating can cause the separator, which keeps positive and negative electrodes apart, to melt. This leads to short-circuiting, where the electrodes touch each other. Short-circuits significantly increase the risk of thermal runaway. Thermal runaway occurs when excess heat generates more energy, creating a cycle that leads to fire or explosion.
In summary, overheating negatively affects lithium-ion batteries by degrading the electrolyte, damaging the separator, and increasing the risk of thermal runaway. Managing temperatures through proper charging practices and keeping devices cool is crucial to prevent battery failure.
Why Is Overcharging Dangerous for Lithium-Ion Batteries?
Overcharging lithium-ion batteries is dangerous because it can lead to overheating, fires, and battery failure. When a lithium-ion battery is charged beyond its specified voltage, it can destabilize and pose significant safety risks.
According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), lithium-ion batteries are rechargeable batteries that use lithium ions as the primary charge carriers. They are commonly found in smartphones, laptops, and electric vehicles.
The danger of overcharging arises from several key factors. Firstly, lithium-ion batteries are designed to operate within a specific voltage range. When charging exceeds this range, it can cause excessive heat generation. Secondly, overcharging can result in chemical reactions within the battery that produce gases, leading to increased internal pressure. Lastly, elevated temperatures can degrade the electrolyte, resulting in the formation of dendrites—tiny, tree-like structures—that can cause short circuits.
Terms like “electrolyte” refer to the substance within the battery that allows ions to move between electrodes during charging and discharging. “Dendrites” are metallic structures formed by lithium deposits that can create pathways for electrical flow, ultimately leading to potential failure or fires.
In detail, when a lithium-ion battery is overcharged, it undergoes a series of reactions. Excess voltage causes lithium ions to accumulate at one electrode, while the opposite electrode may release gases due to electrolyte breakdown. This accumulation leads to heat, which can escalate to the point of causing thermal runaway—a condition where the battery’s temperature spikes uncontrollably.
Specific conditions contributing to overcharging include using incorrect chargers, leaving devices plugged in longer than necessary, and malfunctioning charging circuitry. For example, a defective charger may supply more voltage than the battery can handle, leading to rapid overheating and potentially catastrophic failure. Another scenario is when a battery management system, which regulates charging, fails to shut off the charge supply when the battery reaches its full capacity.
In conclusion, overcharging lithium-ion batteries presents serious risks. Understanding the mechanisms and conditions that lead to these dangers can help users take appropriate precautions to ensure safety.
What Happens If a Lithium-Ion Battery Is Deeply Discharged?
Deeply discharging a lithium-ion battery can lead to a range of negative consequences, including reduced battery lifespan and permanent damage.
- Main consequences of deep discharge:
– Voltage drop below the critical level
– Altered electrolyte chemistry
– Battery capacity reduction
– Risk of battery swelling or leaking
– Potential for internal short circuits
To better understand the implications of deeply discharging lithium-ion batteries, let’s explore each consequence in detail.
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Voltage Drop Below the Critical Level: Deep discharging occurs when a battery’s charge falls below a specific voltage threshold. For lithium-ion batteries, this threshold typically ranges from 2.5 to 3.0 volts per cell. Exceeding this lower limit leads to irreversible changes in the battery’s chemical composition, which can turn the battery inoperable.
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Altered Electrolyte Chemistry: Lithium-ion batteries rely on a carefully balanced electrolyte to facilitate ion movement during charging and discharging. Deep discharge disrupts this balance, promoting the formation of lithium metal on the anode. This formation further compromises battery performance and can lead to battery safety risks.
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Battery Capacity Reduction: Repeated deep discharges diminish the overall capacity of lithium-ion batteries. Research shows that discharging below recommended levels leads to a phenomenon called “cycle life degradation.” Battery life becomes increasingly shorter with each deep discharge cycle, leading to quicker capacity loss.
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Risk of Battery Swelling or Leaking: Deep discharging can result in structural changes within the battery. This can cause physical swelling of the battery casing or leakage of harmful chemicals. Such conditions can render the battery dangerous and may lead to hazardous situations if the battery is not handled properly.
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Potential for Internal Short Circuits: A deeply discharged lithium-ion battery may develop dendrites—tiny lithium metal filaments that grow inside the battery. These dendrites can cause internal short circuits, leading to failures or even fires in extreme cases. The National Fire Protection Association has identified battery-related hazards, emphasizing the importance of responsible charging practices.
By recognizing these risks, users can adopt strategies to maintain battery health and longevity. Maintaining proper charging routines and avoiding deep discharges are crucial steps in preserving the integrity of lithium-ion batteries.
How Do Physical Damages Impact Lithium-Ion Battery Health?
Physical damages can significantly impact lithium-ion battery health by reducing battery efficiency, shortening lifespan, and increasing safety risks. These damages can result from mechanical stress, environmental factors, and mishandling during usage or storage.
Mechanical stress can occur from impacts, drops, or punctures, compromising the battery casing. A weakened casing can lead to electrolyte leakage, which diminishes performance. According to a study by Nagaura and Tozawa (1990), structural integrity is crucial for battery functionality and longevity.
Environmental factors, such as extreme temperatures, can lead to thermal stress. High heat can accelerate chemical reactions within the battery, increasing the risk of thermal runaway. This phenomenon can lead to overheating and potentially cause fires or explosions. Research by Pesaran et al. (2015) supports this, showing that high temperatures can drastically reduce battery life.
Mishandling during charging or discharging can also lead to damage. Overcharging can cause Voltage Stress, which leads to swelling and decreased performance. A study by Jean et al. (2020) highlights that improper charging techniques can damage the battery cells, leading to reduced capacity and efficiency.
In summary, physical damages from mechanical stress, environmental factors, and mishandling collectively impair lithium-ion battery health. They affect thermal stability, structural integrity, and overall operational efficiency. Ensuring proper care can help maintain battery performance and longevity.
What Role Does Moisture Play in Damaging Lithium-Ion Batteries?
Moisture plays a critical role in damaging lithium-ion batteries by promoting internal corrosion and reducing their performance and lifespan.
- Internal short-circuiting
- Corrosion of electrodes
- Decreased energy capacity
- Reduced cycle life
- Safety hazards (e.g., thermal runaway)
- Impact on battery management systems
Moisture’s effects on lithium-ion batteries can lead to various consequences.
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Internal Short-Circuiting: Internal short-circuiting occurs when moisture penetrates the battery, leading to conductive pathways forming between the positive and negative electrodes. This can cause the battery to short circuit, resulting in overheating or failure. A study by Doughty and Roth (2009) highlights this issue, as short circuits can severely compromise battery safety.
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Corrosion of Electrodes: Corrosion of electrodes is another major risk. When moisture enters the battery, it can react with metals, causing them to corrode and lose efficacy. Dalavi et al. (2018) emphasize that this corrosion process can significantly reduce battery performance over time.
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Decreased Energy Capacity: Moisture reduces the battery’s energy capacity. When internal components degrade, the battery cannot hold as much charge. A study conducted by Zhang et al. (2020) demonstrates that batteries exposed to high humidity show a noticeable decrease in their overall energy storage capabilities.
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Reduced Cycle Life: Reduced cycle life refers to the number of charge and discharge cycles a battery can endure before its performance significantly degrades. Moisture can hasten deterioration, leading to fewer usable cycles for the battery. Research by Garsuch et al. (2015) found that batteries exposed to moisture lose their cycle life more rapidly than those kept dry.
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Safety Hazards (e.g., Thermal Runaway): Safety hazards include risks of thermal runaway, a condition where the battery overheats uncontrollably. Moisture can exacerbate internal temperatures, increasing the danger of fires or explosions. The Battery Safety Council (2021) warns that compromised batteries may pose severe safety risks if moisture is present.
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Impact on Battery Management Systems: The battery management system (BMS) oversees battery health and safety. Moisture can interfere with the BMS’s functions, leading to improper monitoring and control. An article by Kim and Lee (2019) highlights how compromised signaling can lead to safety failures and performance issues.
Understanding these impacts of moisture is essential for improving battery design and management practices. Keeping lithium-ion batteries in controlled environments can mitigate these risks and enhance their longevity and safety.
What Misconceptions Should You Avoid Regarding Lithium-Ion Battery Care?
Misconceptions about lithium-ion battery care can lead to reduced battery performance and lifespan. It is essential to understand the correct practices to maintain these batteries.
- Frequently charging your battery is harmful.
- You should wait for the battery to be fully drained before recharging.
- Heat is not a significant factor in battery longevity.
- Using any charger is fine.
- Storing batteries in a full charge state is optimal.
Understanding these misconceptions creates an opportunity to adopt better battery practices.
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Frequently charging your battery is harmful: The misconception that frequent charging damages lithium-ion batteries is widespread. In reality, these batteries are designed to handle numerous charge cycles without significant detriment. According to a study by T. R. Reddy et al. (2017), keeping lithium-ion batteries charged between 20% and 80% can extend their lifespan. Frequent, partial charges are preferable to full discharges.
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You should wait for the battery to be fully drained before recharging: Many people believe that letting a battery fully drain improves its health. However, lithium-ion batteries experience stress and potential damage when completely discharged. The International Journal of Energy Research notes that maintaining a charge level higher than 20% can prevent voltage dips that harm battery chemistry (Wang et al., 2018).
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Heat is not a significant factor in battery longevity: Some users underestimate the impact of heat on lithium-ion batteries. Excessive heat accelerates wear and tear on battery materials. Research from the Journal of Power Sources reveals that operating a battery at elevated temperatures can reduce its capacity significantly over time. Keeping devices cool during use is vital for extending battery life.
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Using any charger is fine: It’s a common belief that any charger is acceptable for recharging lithium-ion batteries. However, using chargers from reputable manufacturers ensures compliance with safety standards and optimizes charging rates. A study in the Journal of Energy Storage emphasizes that third-party chargers can lead to overvoltage or overheating issues (Gao et al., 2019).
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Storing batteries in a full charge state is optimal: It’s incorrect to think that a full battery charge is ideal for storage. According to battery experts, storing lithium-ion batteries at about 50% charge can help maintain their capacity and prolong lifespan. The Battery University advises avoiding both high and low states of charge during storage to minimize stress on battery cells.
By addressing these misconceptions, users can implement better practices for lithium-ion battery care, ultimately enhancing their performance and longevity.
What Best Practices Can You Implement to Extend Lithium-Ion Battery Life?
To extend the life of lithium-ion batteries, implement the following best practices:
- Avoid extreme temperatures
- Maintain a partial state of charge
- Use a smart charger
- Store batteries properly
- Avoid deep discharges
- Periodically calibrate the battery
These practices can significantly enhance the lifespan and performance of lithium-ion batteries.
Now let’s delve deeper into each point to understand their implications and importance.
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Avoid Extreme Temperatures:
Avoiding extreme temperatures protects lithium-ion batteries from damage. High temperatures can accelerate chemical reactions within the battery, leading to degradation and reduced capacity. A study by Wang et al. (2020) found that operating at high temperatures can increase the risk of thermal runaway, a condition that can lead to overheating or even combustion. Conversely, cold temperatures can reduce battery efficiency. Ideally, lithium-ion batteries should be kept in environments ranging from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). -
Maintain a Partial State of Charge:
Maintaining a partial state of charge can help preserve battery health. Lithium-ion batteries do not require a full charge to perform effectively. According to research conducted by the University of Cambridge (2021), keeping the battery charged between 20% and 80% can reduce stress and prolong battery life. Keeping batteries at a full charge can lead to electrolyte degradation, which diminishes performance. -
Use a Smart Charger:
Using a smart charger helps optimize charging processes. Smart chargers adjust the voltage and current automatically, preventing overcharging and overheating. A study published in the Journal of Power Sources (2020) highlighted that smart charging systems can substantially enhance battery lifespan through controlled voltage regulation. This reduces stress on the battery’s internal components and prevents damage. -
Store Batteries Properly:
Storing batteries properly ensures their longevity. According to the Battery University, lithium-ion batteries should be stored at approximately 40% charge and in a cool, dry place. This prevents them from entering deep discharge or unintended high-charge states, both of which can damage battery chemistry. Improper storage can lead to irreversible capacity loss. -
Avoid Deep Discharges:
Avoiding deep discharges is crucial for battery management. Lithium-ion batteries can be damaged if regularly discharged below 20%. Research by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory shows that deep discharging can lead to lithium plating, which reduces capacity and reliability over time. It is best to recharge the battery before it reaches this critical point. -
Periodically Calibrate the Battery:
Calibrating the battery periodically helps maintain accurate charge level readings. Calibration involves fully charging the battery, then fully discharging it while using the device. Experts recommend calibrating every few months, particularly after long-term storage or if the battery performance appears erratic. This practice ensures devices correctly understand the available energy, as miscalculations can lead to unexpected shutdowns.
These best practices allow users to get the most out of their lithium-ion batteries, extending both their lifespan and efficiency.
How Should You Store Lithium-Ion Batteries Safely?
To store lithium-ion batteries safely, keep them in a cool, dry place, ideally between 20°C and 25°C (68°F and 77°F). This temperature range helps maintain battery health. Storing at extreme temperatures, such as below 0°C (32°F) or above 35°C (95°F), can degrade the battery’s performance and lifespan.
When storing lithium-ion batteries, avoid humidity and ensure they are placed in a non-conductive container. For example, using a plastic battery organizer can prevent accidental short circuits. Also, it is advisable to store batteries at a partial charge, specifically between 30% and 50%. This charge level reduces stress on the battery and extends its lifespan.
Consider environmental factors. Batteries exposed to high temperatures can swell or leak, while very cold conditions may cause the battery to freeze, both leading to failure. Additionally, if you store batteries in electronic devices, ensure those devices are turned off to avoid unintended battery drain.
Be aware of age-related degradation. Lithium-ion batteries typically lose about 20% of their capacity after two to three years, even when not in use. This decrease in capacity can affect performance when the battery is finally needed.
In summary, store lithium-ion batteries in a cool, dry location with a partial charge of 30% to 50%. Use non-conductive containers to prevent shorts and be cautious of temperature extremes and humidity. For further exploration, consider looking into the best practices for recycling or disposing of aging lithium-ion batteries to promote environmental safety.
Why Is It Important to Use the Correct Charger for Lithium-Ion Batteries?
Using the correct charger for lithium-ion batteries is crucial for safety and performance. Using an incorrect charger can lead to overheating, reduced battery life, or even catastrophic failure, such as fire or explosion.
According to the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), lithium-ion batteries require specific charging methods and voltages to function properly and safely.
Lithium-ion batteries operate based on a series of chemical reactions. These reactions are sensitive to voltage and current. The correct charger provides the necessary voltage and current in a controlled manner, maintaining battery health. An incorrect charger may supply too much voltage, which can cause battery cells to overheat and degrade. Conversely, too little voltage can prevent the battery from charging fully and may lead to capacity loss.
Technical terms related to lithium-ion batteries include “voltage,” which refers to the electric potential difference, and “current,” which denotes the flow of electric charge. “Overvoltage” occurs when the voltage supplied exceeds the battery’s maximum limit, while “undervoltage” is when it falls below the minimum threshold required for charging.
When lithium-ion batteries charge, they undergo a process called “lithiation,” where lithium ions move from the cathode to the anode. A properly matched charger optimizes this process by regulating the charge current and ensuring that the battery remains within safe thermal limits. Using an incompatible charger may disrupt this process, leading to uneven charging and potential damage.
Specific conditions that contribute to issues include heat exposure and prolonged charging times. For instance, charging a battery in a hot environment or using a charger designed for a different voltage range can cause overheating. In scenarios where multiple chargers are used interchangeably, the risk of damaging the battery increases. This can result in shorter battery life, performance issues, and in some cases, safety hazards. Therefore, it is vital to use the correct charger designed for each specific lithium-ion battery model.
What Are the Warning Signs Indicating Your Lithium-Ion Battery May Fail?
Lithium-ion batteries may fail due to several warning signs. These signs can help you identify potential issues before they lead to battery failure.
- Swelling or bulging
- Overheating
- Decreased charge retention
- Frequent disconnections
- Corrosion or leakage
- Unusual noises
These signs indicate various potential problems with the battery. Understanding these issues is essential for maintaining battery performance and safety. Let’s explore each warning sign in detail.
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Swelling or Bulging: Swelling or bulging occurs when the battery’s internal pressure increases. This often indicates a buildup of gas due to chemical reactions inside the battery. In extreme cases, this can lead to rupture or fire. A study by Liu et al. (2021) showed that mechanical stress could trigger this issue, emphasizing the importance of monitoring your battery’s condition.
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Overheating: Overheating is a serious warning sign for lithium-ion batteries. Excessive heat can result from overcharging, internal short circuits, or external factors. Overheating can damage the battery’s cells and shorten its lifespan. In a research conducted by Zhang et al. (2019), it was found that an operating temperature above 60°C can lead to safety hazards like fires and explosions.
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Decreased Charge Retention: Decreased charge retention refers to a battery’s inability to hold a charge effectively. You may notice this sign when a device discharges more quickly than it used to. The phenomenon is common with aging batteries and can lead to complete failure over time. According to a study by Patel et al. (2020), lithium-ion batteries typically reduce their capacity by about 20% after 500 charge cycles.
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Frequent Disconnections: Frequent disconnections occur when a battery loses power unexpectedly. This may be indicative of internal damage or faults. The issue can result from loose connections or wear and tear on the battery terminals. Faulty connections can escalate into complete disconnections, which necessitate immediate attention.
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Corrosion or Leakage: Corrosion or leakage can signal serious problems within a lithium-ion battery. This may occur due to electrolyte leakage, which can damage electronic components and pose safety risks. The National Fire Protection Association has warned about hazardous chemical exposure from leaked electrolytes, emphasizing the need to replace the affected batteries immediately.
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Unusual Noises: Unusual noises, like hissing or popping, may indicate imminent failure. These sounds can result from gas buildup, short-circuiting, or thermal runaway. The University of California conducted a study in 2018, highlighting that audible sounds often precede battery fires, reinforcing the necessity for prompt safety measures.
In conclusion, monitoring these warning signs can help prevent lithium-ion battery failure and ensure safety. Regular checks and mindful usage can extend the battery’s life and maintain device functionality.
How Can You Tell If a Lithium-Ion Battery Is Swollen or Damaged?
You can tell if a lithium-ion battery is swollen or damaged by checking for physical deformation, reduced performance, and unusual temperatures during use or charging.
Physical deformation: A swollen battery may exhibit visible bulging or puffing. This occurs due to gas buildup from chemical reactions inside the battery. The swelling can make the battery casing appear distorted. If a device has noticeable cracks or bends, it is likely the battery is compromised.
Reduced performance: A damaged battery often results in a significant decrease in performance. Users may notice shorter usage times and frequent discharging or inability to hold a charge. A study by G. Zhang et al. in the Journal of Power Sources (2020) indicates that batteries can degrade performance by up to 30% when they sustain physical damage.
Unusual temperatures: Increased heat generation during charging or usage can indicate a problem. Batteries should operate at normal temperatures; if a battery feels excessively hot to touch, it may be experiencing internal failure. This is often a sign that the chemical reactions within the battery are occurring abnormally.
Safety note: If a lithium-ion battery shows any of these signs of swelling or damage, it is essential to stop using the device immediately and safely dispose of the battery. Proper disposal prevents fire hazards and environmental pollution.
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