Overcharging and undercharging risks
Overcharging a lithium-ion battery happens when it is charged beyond its specific voltage limits. This happens when a charger or charging circuit malfunctions or if the user leaves a device plugged in for extended periods.
The risks of overcharging:
- Reduced battery life: Overcharging can cause a significant amount of heat to build up within the battery, leading to the degradation of the battery’s capacity over time. In extreme cases, this may lead to a malfunctioning battery as it can no longer hold a charge.
- Risk of thermal runaway: In rare cases, overcharging can cause the battery to overheat to the point where it enters thermal runaway. This can lead to fires or explosions.
- Potential for electrical damage: Overcharging can also damage the internal components of the battery, resulting in short circuits and further safety concerns.
Undercharging risks
Undercharging occurs when a lithium-ion battery is not charged to its minimum required voltage level. This happens when users disconnect their devices or EVs prematurely, thinking that the battery still has enough capacity left.
The risks of undercharging are:
- Reduced battery capacity: Undercharging frequently can lead to the phenomenon known as the “battery memory effect” where the battery starts to “remember” the reduced capacity. Over time, this can lead to a loss of usable capacity and shorter overall battery life.
- Inefficient use of energy: When you undercharge your EVs or other devices, it limits the use of the available energy in the battery. This can be problematic in applications where maximising energy use is critical.
- Increased charging cycles: When you undercharge, the more you need to recharge. This can increase the overall wear and tear on the battery, which will shorten its lifespan.
You can avoid undercharging by allowing lithium-ion batteries to charge fully as much as possible. It’s also important to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for optimal charging and discharging practices.
Mechanical damage and puncture risks
Lithium-ion batteries are sensitive to physical damage, such as punctures or crushing. When their internal components are damaged, it can result in short circuits and, in extreme cases, thermal runaway. This is particularly common in EVS.
To reduce the risk of mechanical damage, batteries are often encased in robust, impact-resistant materials. However, users must still handle devices with care and avoid subjecting them to extreme physical stress.
Temperature and operating conditions
Lithium-ion batteries perform well within a certain temperature range. Operating them outside this range can lead to reduced efficiency and potentially dangerous consequences. Extremely low temperatures can hinder the battery’s chemical reactions, while high temperatures can accelerate degradation and increase the risk of thermal runaway.
Proper temperature management is necessary, especially in environments where batteries are exposed to extreme conditions.
