Why are lithium batteries hazardous?

• A. They are non-flammable
• B. They are highly flammable and capable of ignition
• C. They are heavy but safe
• D. They emit gas when cold

Answer: (B)

Lithium batteries are hazardous because they store a large amount of energy in a compact form and use a flammable electrolyte. When a cell is damaged, shorted, or overheated, the internal reactions can run away (thermal runaway), generating heat, releasing flammable gases, and igniting the electrolyte. This fire can spread quickly to neighboring cells, making it extremely difficult to extinguish and control. The key hazard is the combination of high energy density and flammable components that can trigger ignition under fault or abuse conditions. It’s not that they are non-flammable or simply heavy and safe, and gas is not ordinarily emitted just because they’re cold; gas release and ignition risk mainly occur during faults, overheating, or mechanical damage.