The chemical reactions that occur inside a lithium-ion cell are complex, but like any battery, it has a negative and a positive electrode. In lithium batteries, the negative is a lithium-carbon compound, and the positive is cobalt oxide (although many battery manufacturers are moving away from cobalt). These two compounds cause a reaction that is safe when controlled and provides energy to your equipment. However, when the feedback gets out of control, the earbuds start melting in your ears. Several things can happen that turn a safe reaction into an uncontrolled reaction: excessive heat, physical damage during use, physical damage during manufacturing, or use of the wrong charger.
The three basic rules that have kept me safe through testing dozens of batteries are:
- Avoid cheap cords, chargers, and outlet adapters;
- Make sure batteries are not exposed to extreme heat (over 110 degrees Fahrenheit);
- Regularly inspect batteries for signs of damage.
It’s most important to avoid cheap wall-outlet adapters, cords, and chargers. These are the most likely sources of your problems. Those chargers you see on Amazon that are $20 cheaper than competitors? not worth it. They probably reduced the price by skimping on insulation, omitting power-management devices, and ignoring electrical safety basics. Price alone is no guarantee of safety. Buy from reputed companies and brands.
It’s summer again. Too much of it can cause all kinds of problems, both in terms of discharge and safety. Avoid heat and pay attention to your batteries while charging. If your device gets excessively hot while charging, it may be a sign of problems. Likewise, be careful of any swollen, bulging, or otherwise deformed batteries.
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