Proper Storage Temperature for Lithium Batteries: The Key to Longevity

Lithium batteries have become an indispensable power source for numerous electronic devices. Whether it’s your smartphone, laptop, or power tools, these batteries provide the energy needed to keep our gadgets running smoothly. But have you ever wondered about the ideal storage conditions for these essential powerhouses?

Contrary to popular belief, storing your lithium batteries in a cold or hot environment is not advisable. Extreme temperatures, such as those below 20° or above 100°, can have adverse effects on battery performance. When exposed to extreme cold, the chemical processes within the battery slow down, leading to a temporary reduction in capacity. On the other hand, excessive heat poses a more significant risk.

While heat can trigger a condition known as thermal runaway, which can result in fire or explosion, the likelihood of such an event is incredibly low, approximately one in 10,000 for a single Li-Ion cell. It is worth noting that storage temperature is only one of several factors that contribute to thermal runaway. The quality of the battery cells, as well as onboard over-charge protection, over-discharge protection, and thermal protection, play crucial roles in preventing such incidents.

To maximize the lifespan of your lithium batteries, it is recommended to store them in an environment with a consistent temperature range of 35 to 90°. Although garages and workshops might seem like suitable storage areas due to their close proximity to the devices they power, these spaces often lack proper insulation, heating, and air conditioning systems. Consequently, the temperature fluctuations in these areas can adversely affect the performance and longevity of your batteries.

Therefore, it is essential to prioritize finding a storage location that provides a stable temperature environment for your lithium batteries. By doing so, you can ensure that your batteries remain in optimal condition, allowing them to deliver reliable power for longer periods. So, whether it’s a dedicated battery storage closet or another suitable space in your home, be sure to create an ideal environment for your vital power sources.

“리튬 배터리를 냉거나 뜨거운 환경에 보관하는 것은 권장되지 않습니다. 영하 20도 미만이나 100도 이상과 같은 극단적인 온도는 배터리 성능에 불리한 영향을 미칠 수 있습니다. 극한한 추위에 노출되면 배터리 내부의 화학 반응이 둔화되어 일시적으로 용량이 감소하는 현상이 발생할 수 있습니다. 그러나 지나치게 높은 온도는 보다 큰 위험을 야기할 수 있습니다.

열은 열발산으로 인한 열량 폭발 및 화재를 유발할 수 있는 ‘열 공작’이라는 조건을 선사할 수 있지만, 이런 사건이 발생하는 가능성은 극히 낮으며, 단일 리튬 이온 셀에 대해서는 대략 1만분의 1의 확률을 가집니다. 보다 중요한 것은 보관 온도가 ‘열 공작’을 예방하는 데 중요한 요소 중 하나일 뿐인 것입니다. 배터리 셀의 품질 뿐 아니라 과충전 보호장치, 과방전 보호장치 및 열 보호 장치도 이러한 사건을 예방하는 데 핵심적인 역할을 합니다.

리튬 배터리의 수명을 극대화하기 위해서는 온도가 35~90도인 일정한 온도 범위를 가진 환경에서 보관하는 것이 권장됩니다. 차고나 작업실은 전원을 공급하는 장치에 가까워 적합한 보관 장소로 보일 수 있으나, 이러한 공간은 종종 적절한 단열, 난방 및 에어컨 시스템이 부족할 수 있습니다. 그 결과 이러한 영역에서의 온도 변동은 배터리의 성능과 수명에 불리한 영향을 미칠 수 있습니다.

따라서 리튬 배터리에 안정적인 온도 환경을 제공하는 보관 장소를 찾는 것이 중요합니다. 이렇게 하면 배터리가 최적의 상태를 유지하여 신뢰할 수 있는 전력을 오랫동안 제공할 수 있게 됩니다. 따라서 전용 배터리 보관 장난감 또는 가정의 다른 적절한 공간이든 어디에서든 중요한 전원 원천에 이상적인 환경을 만드는 데 주의해야 합니다.”

Key terms and jargon:
1. Lithium batteries (리튬 배터리): Rechargeable batteries that use lithium ions to store and release electrical energy.
2. Thermal runaway (열 공작): A condition in which the temperature of a battery rapidly increases, leading to uncontrolled overheating and, in some cases, fire or explosion.
3. Li-Ion cell (리튬 이온 셀): A single unit of a lithium-ion battery that contains a positive and negative electrode, an electrolyte, and a lithium-ion conductor.
4. Over-charge protection (과충전 보호장치): A safety feature in batteries that prevents them from being charged beyond their maximum capacity.
5. Over-discharge protection (과방전 보호장치): A safety feature in batteries that prevents them from being discharged below their minimum threshold, which can cause irreversible damage.
6. Thermal protection (열 보호장치): A safety feature in batteries that monitors and controls their temperature to prevent overheating.

Related links:
Lithium-Ion Battery Guide
Safer Lithium-Ion Batteries

Storing lithium batteries properly

ByJohn Washington

John Washington is an accomplished author and thought leader in the realms of emerging technologies and financial technology (fintech). He holds a Master's degree in Information Systems from the prestigious Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), where he developed a deep understanding of the intersection between finance and technology. John has spent over a decade working in the fintech sector, including a pivotal role at Innovent Solutions, where he was instrumental in developing cutting-edge financial applications that enhanced user experience and operational efficiency. His insights and expertise are reflected in his published works, where he explores the transformative impact of technology on traditional financial systems, making complex concepts accessible to a broad audience. Through his writing, John aims to empower readers with the knowledge to navigate the rapidly evolving digital landscape.