Lithium-ion batteries – CFS

Damage and disposal

How do I know if my device or battery is damaged?

Thermal runaway events in lithium-ion batteries can occur rapidly and can often be quite violent, resulting in the production of toxic, flammable gas and vapours, fire and projectiles.

Don’t use batteries or devices that show signs of swelling or bulging, leaking, overheating, or signs of mechanical damage (cracked, dented, punctured, or crushed).

Lithium-ion batteries with any sign of damage, or that have been exposed to water or liquid should be treated as damaged and highly dangerous.

Warning signs include:

• strong odours
• discolouration, blistering, bulging, or swelling of the casing
• leaking fluid
• corrosion or crusting around terminals
• heating up and feeling extremely hot to touch
• abnormal popping, hissing or crackling sounds
• smoke and fumes.

Never touch a swollen or ruptured device or battery with bare hands as the heat and/or chemicals can cause severe burns.

Safe battery disposal – undamaged lithium-ion batteries

• Never dispose of lithium-ion batteries or devices in industrial waste, general household waste or recycling bins.
• When a battery is no longer able to keep a charge, it is considered end-of-life. Do not store end-of-life batteries together in a pile.
• If the battery is end-of-life, do not sell or donate the battery or device.
• Contact your local council for instructions about how to discard or recycle lithium-ion batteries in your local area.
• Tape over battery terminals with electrical tape before giving them to a disposal or recycling facility.
• Place leaking or damaged (but not overheated or off gassing) batteries in a plastic container.

Safe battery disposal – damaged lithium-ion batteries

• Do not touch a device or lithium-ion battery that is emitting vapour, gas, or is on fire.
• Never touch a swollen or ruptured device or battery with bare hands as the heat and/or chemicals can cause severe burns.
• Always use gloves/hand protection before touching or moving leaking batteries.
• Fire or smoke-damaged batteries should be kept outside in a well-ventilated area and stored away from any other dangerous goods or materials that are combustible or flammable.
• Place leaking or damaged (but not overheated or off-gassing) batteries in a plastic container.
• Check safe disposal options at Recycle Mate or B-Cycle to safely dispose of lithium-ion batteries or products.