Will a Swollen Battery Explode? | Phone, Tablet, Laptop, Car

Battery swelling occurs when the cells within a battery expand due to various chemical reactions. This phenomenon is most common in lithium-ion batteries, which are widely used in consumer electronics due to their high energy density and rechargeability.

The swelling can be triggered by several factors, including overcharging, external damage, manufacturing defects, and exposure to high temperatures.

Published: May 15, 2024.

The swelling results from the buildup of gases inside the battery's cells. These gases are primarily generated from the decomposition of electrolytes within the battery under stressful conditions.

As the gases accumulate, they exert pressure on the battery casing, which leads to visible expansion. While this issue does not immediately render the battery non-functional, it significantly compromises its structural integrity and efficiency.

Understanding the mechanics and triggers of battery swelling is essential for users and manufacturers alike to mitigate risks and extend the lifespan of their devices.

Common Causes of Swelling in Phone and Tablet Batteries

Swelling in phone and tablet batteries can be attributed to several common causes:

• Overcharging: Leaving devices plugged in for extended periods or using inappropriate chargers that supply too much power can lead to overcharging. Modern devices typically have systems in place to prevent overcharging, but these can fail or be bypassed.
• Heat Exposure: Batteries are particularly sensitive to heat. Exposure to high temperatures can occur from direct sunlight, operation in hot environments, or intense computational tasks that generate excess heat.
• Physical Damage: Dropping or bending a device can damage the battery structurally, leading to internal short circuits that generate heat and gas.
• Age and Usage: Repeated charging and discharging degrade a battery's internal components over time, increasing the likelihood of swelling as the battery ages.
• Manufacturing Flaws: Sometimes, defects in the manufacturing process can leave batteries prone to swelling. These might include impurities in the materials or improper assembly.

Identifying these causes helps in taking preventive measures to reduce the risk of swelling in phones and tablets.

Laptop Battery Swelling: Risks and Precautions

Laptop batteries can also swell under similar circumstances as phone and tablet batteries. However, due to their larger size and the nature of laptop use, the risks and precautions can be slightly different:

Risks

• Operational Failure: A swollen battery may hinder the laptop's ability to function correctly. It can also cause physical damage to the laptop’s structure, such as displacing the keyboard or trackpad.
• Safety Hazard: If the swelling leads to a rupture, it could expose toxic materials and potentially cause a fire hazard.

Precautions

• Regular Inspection: Users should periodically inspect their laptop batteries, especially if the device feels unusually hot or the battery life declines sharply.
• Avoid Heat: Keeping the laptop away from heat sources and ensuring it has proper ventilation during use can prevent overheating.
• Proper Charging Practices: Using the original charger and avoiding leaving the laptop plugged in continuously after it’s fully charged can help reduce the risk of overcharging. On some laptop models, users can set Adaptive Battery Optimizer (HP laptops) or a similar service that monitors the battery and takes actions to protect it and prevent swelling. Also, some operating systems allow the users to set maximum and minimum battery charging/discharging conditions (usually recommended between 20% and 80% SoC).

Understanding these specifics can greatly enhance safety protocols, ensuring that laptops are used within their operational limits and reducing the incidence of battery swelling.

The Dangers of Swollen Car Batteries: What You Need to Know

Swollen car batteries pose unique risks compared to smaller device batteries due to their larger size, higher power capacity, and the critical role they play in vehicle operation. Here are some key dangers associated with swollen car batteries:

• Operational Failure: A swollen battery may fail to start the engine or could die unexpectedly due to compromised electrical connections or damaged cells.
• Leakage of Hazardous Chemicals: Car batteries, particularly lead-acid types, contain sulfuric acid and other hazardous chemicals that could leak if the battery casing is breached due to swelling. This leakage can corrode vehicle parts and is dangerous to human health.
• Fire and Explosion Risk: While less common, there is a risk of fire or explosion if the gases released by a swollen battery ignite. This is particularly dangerous in an enclosed space like a garage or when the vehicle is in operation.

Precautions include:

• Regularly checking the battery’s physical condition.
• Ensuring that the battery is properly mounted and secured.
• Avoiding overcharging by maintaining the vehicle’s charging system.
• Replacing the battery if swelling is noticed, as it can quickly lead to more severe issues.

Assessing the Risk: Could a Swollen Battery Explode?

The risk of explosion from a swollen battery, while relatively low, is not negligible. The main concern with swelling is the internal pressure build-up and the integrity of the battery casing. If the pressure is not relieved, the casing might rupture, potentially causing a violent release of gases and chemicals.

In lithium-ion batteries, thermal runaway is a significant risk, where one cell overheating can cause adjacent cells to also overheat and degrade, leading to a potential explosion or fire.

In lead-acid batteries, the risk involves the accumulation of hydrogen gas, which is highly flammable and can explode if ignited by a spark or high heat.

The best way to mitigate this risk is through early detection, proper handling, and disposal of swollen batteries.

Signs of Trouble: How to Identify a Swollen Battery

Identifying a swollen battery early can prevent many of the risks associated with battery failure. Here are some signs to watch for:

• Physical Bulging or Swelling: This is the most obvious sign. The battery casing may appear rounded or bulging, and in devices like smartphones or laptops, this may also cause the casing of the device to separate or crack.
• Battery Deformation: For car batteries, any unusual shape or cracks in the battery casing can be a clear indicator of swelling.
• Reduced Battery Performance: If your device or vehicle has reduced battery life or experiences power issues, it could be a sign of battery degradation, including swelling.
• Heat Generation: Excessive heat from the battery during charging or use is a warning sign.
• Leakage: Any signs of leakage from a battery should be taken seriously as it indicates that the internal structure is compromised.

Note: when a lithium-ion battery starts to leak, the electrolyte can emit a distinct odor that is sometimes described as fruity or sweet. This is because the electrolyte in lithium-ion batteries is typically composed of organic carbonates, which can produce such smells when they decompose or react chemically upon exposure to air. If you notice a fruity smell from a battery, it's a sign that the battery is damaged and may be leaking electrolyte. This situation is hazardous and should be handled carefully; the battery should be properly disposed of to avoid any risks of fire or chemical burns.

When you spot these signs, it’s crucial to take immediate action, either by ceasing the use of the battery, removing it from the device if possible, or consulting a professional for advice on disposal or replacement.

Immediate Actions: Steps to Take if Your Battery Swells

When you notice that a battery has swollen, taking immediate action is crucial to prevent potential harm or damage:

• Power Down: Immediately turn off the device (if applicable) to stop any electrical current that could exacerbate the issue.
• Remove the Battery: If it's safe and possible (like in some smartphones and laptops), remove the battery. Avoid puncturing or compressing the battery, as this could lead to a chemical leak or fire.
• Place in a Safe Area: Put the swollen battery in a non-conductive, fireproof container and store it in a cool, well-ventilated space away from flammable materials until it can be properly disposed of.
• Contact Professionals: Seek advice from a professional regarding the swollen battery and its replacement. If it's in a vehicle or another complex system, professional servicing is recommended.
• Avoid DIY Repairs: Do not attempt to repair or recharge a swollen battery, as this can be extremely dangerous.

Preventing Battery Swelling: Tips for Each Device Type

Smartphones and Tablets

• Use only the original charger or a certified alternative.
• Avoid exposing devices to extreme temperatures.
• Do not overcharge; remove the device from the charger once it is fully charged.

Laptops

• Ensure good ventilation during use; do not block cooling vents.
• Use power settings that optimize battery health, such as those that stop charging when the battery reaches 80-90% capacity.
• Periodically calibrate the battery by allowing it to discharge fully and then recharge completely.

Car Batteries

• Regularly check the battery’s charging system to ensure it is not overcharging.
• Keep the battery clean and free from corrosion.
• Ensure the battery is securely mounted to avoid vibrations that can cause internal damage.

Safe Disposal and Recycling of Swollen Batteries

Swollen batteries must be handled and disposed of with care due to their hazardous nature:

• Consult Local Regulations: Check with your local waste management facilities for specific guidelines on disposing of batteries. Many regions have special handling requirements for hazardous materials.
• Use Recycling Centers: Take swollen batteries to a certified recycling center that can safely process them. This prevents environmental contamination and allows for the recovery of valuable materials.
• Do Not Dispose in Regular Trash: Never throw a swollen battery in the garbage, as it can pose a fire hazard and harm the environment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are some of the most common Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about swollen batteries.

Can you remove the battery from the iPhone? What to do if the iPhone battery is swollen?

Yes, the battery can be removed from an iPhone, but it requires specialized tools and expertise. It is not designed to be user-removable like some other smartphones. Attempting to remove the battery yourself without proper knowledge and tools can be hazardous and may further damage the device.

If you suspect that the battery in your iPhone is swollen, it's essential to take immediate action to ensure safety and prevent further damage:

• Stop Using the Device: If you notice any signs of swelling or unusual behavior from your iPhone, such as the screen lifting or a distorted shape, stop using it immediately.
• Power Off the iPhone: Turn off the iPhone to prevent any risk of short circuits or electrical issues.
• Avoid Charging: Do not attempt to charge the iPhone if the battery is swollen. Charging a swollen battery can increase the risk of overheating and further damage.
• Contact Apple Support: Reach out to Apple Support or visit an authorized service provider as soon as possible. They can assess the situation and provide guidance on the next steps.
• Do Not Attempt DIY Repairs: Attempting to remove or replace the swollen battery yourself can be dangerous and may void any warranty on the device. Leave the task to trained professionals who have the necessary tools and expertise to handle it safely.
• Dispose of the Device Properly: If the iPhone is deemed unsafe to use or repair, follow proper disposal procedures. Apple and many retailers offer recycling programs for electronic devices to ensure they are disposed of in an environmentally friendly manner.

Safety should always be the top priority when dealing with swollen batteries or any other issues with electronic devices. Taking appropriate action promptly can help prevent accidents and ensure the well-being of yourself and those around you.

Is it safe to use a slightly swollen battery?

No, it is not safe to use a slightly swollen battery. Even slight swelling indicates that something is malfunctioning inside the battery, such as gas buildup from chemical reactions that could lead to further swelling, leakage, or even an explosion or fire.

Swelling is a clear sign that the battery's integrity has been compromised, and continuing to use it can pose significant safety risks.

How best to deal with a swollen battery?

If the battery in your device is swollen, then:

• Stop using the device immediately to prevent any additional stress on the battery.
• Power down the device if possible, to minimize the risk of short circuits or overheating.
• Remove the battery if it's user-removable and do so safely, avoiding any puncturing or compression.
• Consult with a professional for advice on replacement, and have the device inspected if necessary.
• Dispose of the swollen battery properly at an authorized recycling or disposal facility to handle hazardous materials safely.

Swollen battery is a serious issue, so please, be smart and stay safe!

Can a swollen battery be fixed?

A swollen battery cannot be fixed and should not be used or attempted to be repaired.

Swelling is a sign of internal damage, typically due to gas buildup from failed chemical reactions or degradation within the battery. This condition compromises the structural integrity and safety of the battery.

In short, a swollen battery cannot be fixed, so don't even try to do it...

Can you fly with a swollen battery?

Flying with a swollen battery is generally not recommended and may be restricted by airlines and aviation authorities due to safety concerns. Swollen batteries, especially lithium-ion batteries commonly used in electronic devices, pose a significant risk of fire, explosion, or chemical leakage, particularly when subjected to changes in pressure and temperature during air travel.

Personally, I don't want a swollen battery near me on the ground, let alone on the plane.

Future Innovations: Towards Safer Battery Technologies

Researchers are actively working on developing safer battery technologies to reduce the risks associated with swelling and improve overall safety. Some of the promising areas include:

• Solid-State Batteries: These batteries replace the liquid electrolytes with solid materials, significantly reducing the risk of leaks and swelling.
• Advanced Management Systems: Improvements in battery management systems (BMS) that more precisely control charging rates and temperatures.
• New Materials: Research into new electrode and electrolyte materials that are less prone to degradation and gas buildup.

These innovations aim to not only enhance the safety of batteries but also improve their efficiency and lifespan, contributing to more sustainable and reliable technology use.