Smartphones have become essential to the lives of people nowadays. It's one of the things we can't live without. But we might be putting our safety at risk. When smartphone batteries explode, it should not be taken lightly, especially since we can do something to keep it from happening.
Why Do Batteries Explode?
Smartphones use lithium-ion batteries. They have high energy density, tiny memory effect and low self-discharge. Lithium-ion batteries are popular rechargeable batteries for portable devices.
The battery cell is composed of an electrolyte and two electrodes. A short circuit will cause it to overheat or explode. It's triggered by a power surge or manufacturing fault. The latter doesn't occur often. The power surge is more of a problem. Lithium-ion batteries should not be exposed to excessive heat.
1. Don't Put Your Phone Under Your Pillow
It's not a good idea to put your phone under your pillow. It gets warm when your phone is charging. More heat will be generated if it's under your pillow. The battery needs to cool down. Otherwise, there will be a thermal runaway. Putting it in between your bed and pillow calls for danger.
It's tempting to sleep with your phone beside you. However, put your own safety first.
2. Use An Approved Charger
Use the charger that comes with your phone. It's ensured to be of high quality. The lithium-ion battery cells should only receive 2.5 to 3.65 V. That's the allowed voltage range. Your phone will receive that right amount of current with a first-party charger.
Buy it from an authorized retailer if you don't have one. Don't worry about the money. You will eventually spend more when it is below the standard.
3. Don't Expose It To Excessive Heat
Don't use your phone directly under the sunlight. A hot environment is the worst place to be. Keep it away from anything that produces too much heat. Don't put it next to an iron that's being used. Don't lock it in your car all day. It's going to be toasted in summer.
It's not advisable to charge it when the temperature is beyond 45 °C. It's safe when the temperature is cooler. Within 5 to 45 °C (41 to 113 °F) is preferable. Anything above or lower than that range is not highly recommended.
4. Don't Use Too Many Apps Simultaneously
It's not healthy when multiple tasks are used simultaneously. A lot of heat should be expected. So, it's always better to do it one at a time. Download another movie once you finished the first one.
Don't play graphically intensive game on your phone, according to MSN. It will be too much for your battery. Close any tasks that you are not using. Avoid opening apps that have high demand.
Though you might not enjoy your phone as much. It's worth it when you have a non-exploding battery.
5. Don't Use Very Thick Phone Cases
Phone cases have interesting designs. It's either used for protection or style. However, it's not advisable to use very thick ones. The heat of the phone will be contained. On top of that, don't use your phone extensively. It will get worse.
A Pikachu phone case looks cool. Just make sure it is not too thick.
Disposal Of Exploded Battery
Your battery is safe if you follow these tips. If not, there is a proper way to dispose of an exploded battery. According to Android Authority, don't throw away the battery in the trash, since that can be hazardous.
Take it to an authorised disposal facility or some electronics retailers. Best Buy offers battery recycling services. The next step is to get a new battery. Notify your retailer or the manufacturer. It will be replaced if you still have a warranty.
