When using smartphones, tablets, laptops, or drones, you may encounter a swollen battery: the battery casing expands, sometimes causing the device’s back cover to bulge or preventing it from closing properly. This issue is common in Li-Polymer (Lithium-Polymer) batteries and is a serious safety concern. In this article, we will explain the main causes, potential risks, and safe handling methods of swollen Li-Polymer batteries.
Main Causes of Li-Polymer Battery Swelling
Overcharging or Deep Discharging
-
Continuously charging a battery to 100% and keeping it plugged in can accelerate the decomposition of the electrolyte, producing gas.
-
Frequently discharging the battery to 0% can also damage the internal structure, increasing the risk of swelling.
Battery Aging
-
Batteries naturally degrade after 2–3 years of use.
-
The electrolyte gradually breaks down over time, making swelling more likely.
Poor Quality or Counterfeit Batteries
-
Cheap or low-quality batteries often have design flaws and substandard materials.
-
Inadequate protection circuits inside the battery can increase the chance of swelling.
High Temperature Exposure
-
Prolonged exposure to high temperatures, such as leaving devices in a hot car or using them heavily while they heat up, accelerates chemical reactions and gas generation.
Physical Damage
-
Batteries that are dropped, crushed, or punctured may experience internal short circuits, which can lead to swelling or even fire hazards.
Risks of a Swollen Li-Polymer Battery
1. Device Damage
-
A swollen battery can warp the device casing, keyboard, or screen, potentially causing permanent deformation or even rendering the device unusable.
2. Safety Hazards
-
Swollen batteries have increased internal pressure, which can lead to electrolyte leakage and unpleasant chemical odors.
-
In severe cases, the battery may smoke, catch fire, or even explode, posing serious safety risks.
3. Decreased User Experience
-
Once a battery swells, battery life drops sharply, charging may become irregular, and the device may fail to operate normally, significantly affecting daily use.
How to Handle a Swollen Li-Polymer Battery Safely
1. Stop Using the Battery Immediately
-
Unplug the device from the charger and stop using it to prevent further damage.
-
Power off the device completely to reduce internal stress on the battery.
-
Disconnect all external accessories such as USB cables or docking stations to avoid short circuits.
2. Do Not Puncture or Press the Battery
-
Avoid using sharp objects or heavy items on the battery surface.
-
Do not try to flatten or squeeze the swollen battery, as this may cause internal short circuits and release flammable gases.
-
Do not touch the swollen area directly with your bare hands to prevent exposure to electrolyte leakage.
3. Store the Battery Safely
-
Place the battery in a fireproof container or on a tray with sand/stone to prevent fire hazards.
-
Keep it in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight and high temperatures (<30°C recommended).
-
Avoid contact with metal objects to prevent short circuits.
4. Replace the Battery Safely
-
Contact the device manufacturer or authorized service center and explain the swelling issue to schedule a safe battery replacement.
-
For laptops, drones, or other removable-battery devices, purchase a genuine or certified replacement battery that matches the model and capacity.
-
When handling the old or new battery, wear protective gloves to avoid direct contact with the battery surface.
-
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for charging and usage of the new battery to prevent future swelling.
5. Dispose of the Battery Properly
-
Do not throw the swollen battery in regular trash.
-
Place it in a dedicated recycling bag or box to prevent short circuits during transport.
-
Take it to a local battery recycling center or hazardous waste facility for safe disposal.
-
Check local electronic recycling services or environmental agencies for official disposal channels.
Do not take risks with a swollen battery! Follow the safe handling steps, and contact a professional service or purchase a certified high-quality replacement battery directly from BatteryMall.com.
Want to learn more about battery care, troubleshooting, and tips? Please visit:BatteryMall.com/blogs/support
댓글 0개