Here is an article detailing the news from Okayama City regarding lithium-ion batteries:
Important Safety Advisory: Okayama City Urges Caution Regarding Swelling and Ignition Risks of Lithium-Ion Batteries
Okayama City, Japan – August 15, 2025 – Okayama City has issued a crucial public safety announcement, highlighting the potential dangers associated with lithium-ion batteries. In their August 2025 publication, the city is strongly advising residents and businesses to be vigilant regarding the risks of swelling and ignition posed by these commonly used power sources.
Lithium-ion batteries, ubiquitous in modern portable electronics such as smartphones, laptops, electric vehicles, and power tools, offer significant advantages in terms of energy density and rechargeability. However, like any advanced technology, they are not without their inherent risks, particularly when subjected to improper handling, damage, or aging.
The primary concerns raised by Okayama City revolve around two critical issues:
-
Battery Swelling: This phenomenon often occurs when the electrolyte within the battery degrades or when internal chemical reactions produce gas. A swollen battery can deform its casing, leading to increased internal pressure. This deformation is a clear indicator that the battery’s integrity has been compromised and it should be handled with extreme care.
-
Ignition Risk: Swollen batteries, or those that have been punctured, short-circuited, or exposed to excessive heat, can lead to thermal runaway. This is a chain reaction where the internal temperature of the battery increases rapidly, potentially resulting in the emission of flammable gases, smoke, and ultimately, fire or explosion.
Okayama City is emphasizing the importance of several preventive measures and guidelines for safe battery usage and disposal:
-
Inspect Batteries Regularly: Users should routinely check their lithium-ion batteries for any signs of damage, such as swelling, leakage, or deformation of the casing. If any such abnormalities are detected, the battery should be immediately disconnected from its device and handled with caution.
-
Avoid Extreme Temperatures: Lithium-ion batteries are sensitive to temperature fluctuations. Exposure to direct sunlight, extreme heat (e.g., in a parked car on a hot day), or freezing temperatures can accelerate degradation and increase the risk of failure. It is advisable to store and use devices at moderate ambient temperatures.
-
Use Approved Chargers and Accessories: Always use the charger and accessories specifically designed for your electronic devices. Using incompatible or substandard chargers can lead to overcharging or improper charging, which can damage the battery and pose a safety hazard.
-
Handle with Care: Avoid dropping, crushing, or puncturing lithium-ion batteries. Physical damage can create internal short circuits, leading to dangerous overheating.
-
Proper Disposal: When a lithium-ion battery reaches the end of its lifespan or shows signs of damage, it is crucial to dispose of it responsibly. Lithium-ion batteries should not be thrown into regular household waste or incinerated. Okayama City encourages residents to utilize designated collection points for rechargeable batteries, which are often found at electronics retailers or municipal waste facilities. These facilities are equipped to handle and recycle these batteries safely.
-
Seek Professional Assistance: If you are unsure about the condition of a lithium-ion battery or how to handle a potentially damaged one, it is best to consult a qualified professional or refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines.
By raising awareness and providing clear guidance, Okayama City aims to mitigate the risks associated with lithium-ion batteries and ensure the safety and well-being of its residents. Citizens are encouraged to familiarize themselves with these important safety recommendations and to practice responsible battery management.
AI has delivered the news.
The answer to the following question is obtained from Google Gemini.
岡山市 published ‘リチウムイオン電池 膨張・発火に要注意！（令和7年8月号）’ at 2025-08-15 01:00. Please write a detailed article about this news in a polite tone with relevant information. Please reply in English with the article only.