The recent story of an e-cigarette exploding in a man’s mouth and burning his face, throat and lungs[1] is no doubt a scary one. However, while the story may be effective in alarming individuals, what it is lacking is adequate information to explain exactly what caused the failure to occur in the first place. There is a possibility that the battery was at least in part to blame, which necessitates an exploration of the subject of e-cigarette battery safety[2].
E-Cigarette Batteries
In order to understand how to keep one’s e-cigarette batteries in good shape, one first must understand the different types of batteries in use. Protected and unprotected lithium-ion batteries are the most common types of batteries used in an e-cigarette MOD. Unprotected lithium-ion batteries that experience a short or fault will rapidly heat up and can potentially explode. MODs without internal protection to detect a short or excessive heat are unlikely to hold up in the event of an unprotected, malfunctioning lithium-ion battery. Protected lithium-ion batteries have built-in temperature switches to protect against high current surges, a circuit interrupt device in the case of rising cell pressure and a safety vent to release gas. Additionally, a fuse will cut the current if the skin temperature rises to near 194 degrees Fahrenheit. Lithium iron phosphate batteries are more expensive than lithium-ion batteries, but they use a safe chemistry, they don’t need protection, they have a longer service life and they charge more quickly. Lithium manganese batteries also use a safe chemistry and do not need a protection circuit.
Battery Safety
In order to ensure proper battery safety, you should always use the type of battery recommended by the MOD manufacturer, and never settle for cheap, no name batteries. Generally speaking, the larger the battery, the greater the safety as the cell will not be overtaxed during use. Additionally, you should always ensure that the charger you are using is designed for the specific battery you are charging, and you should watch for high temperatures during charging. If the charger or battery does become excessively hot during charging you should discontinue charger or battery use immediately. You should always visually inspect your battery in order to determine whether it is in good condition. If you see any discharge or gunk on the contact points of the battery, or you suspect or think that something may be wrong with it, it is best to simply throw it out and get a new one. It is far better to be safe than take any risks with your e-cigarette battery, especially since it will be placed so close to your mouth and face during use.
[1] http://www.miamiherald.com/news/local/community/miami-dade/article57037303.html [2] http://www.ecigarettedirect.co.uk/ashtray-blog/2015/04/e-cig-battery-safety-infographic.html