Due to their high-energy density and long lifespan, lithium-ion batteries have become the preferred choice for products like smartphones, drones, and electric vehicles. Their ubiquity is evident as global battery demand is set to soar from 185 GWh in 2020 to more than 2,000 GWh by 2030, according to data from Statista.

This also means growth in demand for the raw materials. By 2028, the demand for battery anode material graphite is projected at two million metric tons, while lithium is expected to reach 1.9 million metric tons.

No doubt, the Li-ion battery has gained widespread adoption; however, this ideal power source is not without its risks. The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has issued a warning about the dangers of Li-ion batteries after documenting several hazardous fires.

Due to having flammable contents and heat being a byproduct of their function, Li-ion batteries can cause “a serious and self-sustaining fire,” according to the ACCC. Most Li-ion batteries operate safely under regular conditions, but the agency nevertheless enumerated recent incidents to warn consumers to handle the batteries with care.

In 2022, for example, an Adelaide home suffered $150,000 in damages when an e-bike stored inside the home caught fire. It was due to a battery that had been purchased online and retrofitted to the bicycle. In August 2020, LG issued a recall for 7,800 home energy system batteries due to reported incidents, including house fires and smoke inhalation injuries.

While we’re at it, your smartphone can also explode because of battery and manufacturing issues. It is very unlikely, sure, but take precautions just to be safe. Sometimes, electronic devices will literally blow up in your face.

To prevent Li-ion battery fires, the ACCC recommends increasing consumer awareness, mitigating environmental factors, avoiding misuse, among other safety steps. You can read their entire report here.

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