The safe storage of lithium batteries is crucial for companies that work with sensitive equipment such as drones, communication systems and other technical aids. Temperature plays an essential role in this: lithium batteries must be stored within specific temperature limits (usually between 0°C and 25°C) to ensure optimal performance and safety. Outside these limits, the risk of damage, loss of capacity and even serious safety incidents such as fire increases significantly.
For most lithium batteries, the safe storage temperature is between 0°C and 25°C, with an ideal temperature around 15°C. This temperature range is not chosen arbitrarily but is based on the chemical properties of lithium batteries. At these temperatures, the internal chemical processes remain stable, which maximises the battery’s service life and minimises the risk of dangerous situations.
The temperature limits have a direct impact on the battery chemistry. At temperatures above 25°C, the chemical reactions in the battery accelerate, leading to:
At temperatures below 0°C, ion mobility in the electrolyte is limited, causing:
For long-term storage (more than 3 months), it is even more important to keep the temperature stable, preferably between 10°C and 20°C. It is also advisable to store batteries at a charge level of 40-60% for optimum stability.
Storing lithium batteries outside the recommended temperature limits poses various risks, depending on whether the temperature is too high or too low. These risks range from reduced performance to serious safety incidents.
At temperatures above 25°C, the risk of a thermal runaway increases. This is a self-reinforcing process in which the temperature in the battery continues to rise, which can ultimately lead to:
A well-known example of the consequences of overheating is the global recall of the Samsung Galaxy Note 7 in 2016, in which several devices caught fire due to battery overheating. Incidents also occur in industrial environments: in 2019, a fire in a lithium battery storage facility in Arizona caused significant damage because batteries were stored in a room without adequate temperature control.
Although less acutely dangerous, storage at temperatures below 0°C can also cause problems:
Charging a cold battery can be particularly dangerous. When a lithium battery that has been stored at temperatures below 0°C is charged immediately, lithium plating can occur on the anode. This can cause an internal short circuit, which in turn can lead to overheating and fire.
Not all lithium batteries are the same, and the specific temperature limits can vary depending on the chemical composition and design of the battery. Here is a comparison of the main types:
| Battery type | Optimal storage temperature | Absolute limits | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lithium-ion (Li-ion) | 15-20°C | -20°C to 45°C | Most common in consumer electronics |
| Lithium polymer (LiPo) | 5-20°C | -10°C to 35°C | More sensitive to temperature fluctuations; widely used in drones |
| Lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) | 0-25°C | -30°C to 60°C | More stable and safer in temperature variations; used in defence applications |
| Lithium titanate (LTO) | -10°C to 30°C | -40°C to 65°C | Best performance at low temperatures; used in specialist applications |
The storage of lithium batteries is subject to strict regulations, both nationally and internationally. In the United Kingdom and the EU, companies that store lithium batteries must comply with various regulations:
Although the ADR primarily focuses on transport, it also contains important guidelines for temporary storage:
Lithium batteries fall under:
These classifications entail specific requirements for temperature control during storage and transport.
This Dutch guideline for the storage of lithium batteries states:
In addition to legal requirements, there are also industrial standards such as:
The defence sector and security services often have even stricter requirements, with temperature control being seen as a critical factor for the operational reliability of equipment.
Effective temperature management in lithium battery storage areas requires a combination of suitable facilities, monitoring systems and procedures. Here are some practical methods for achieving this:
A reliable climate control system is essential for safe battery storage:
Continuous temperature monitoring is crucial:
For larger facilities, it is advisable to implement a wireless sensor network that collects and analyses real-time data so that you can intervene immediately in the event of deviations.
In addition to spatial measures, specialised packaging can contribute to temperature stability:
For critical applications, such as in the defence sector, customised packaging solutions can be developed that not only offer protection against physical damage but also against temperature variations. This packaging can be equipped with temperature monitoring and even active cooling for the transport and storage of sensitive batteries in extreme environments.
Technical measures must be supplemented with good procedures:
Respecting temperature limits when storing lithium batteries is not a formality but an essential safety measure. By maintaining the correct temperature range (usually 0°C-25°C), you not only minimise the risk of incidents such as fire, but also extend the life and reliability of the batteries.
Specific requirements may vary depending on the type of battery and its application, but the principle remains the same: stable, controlled conditions are crucial for safe storage. This is especially true for sensitive applications in sectors such as defence, emergency services and high-tech, where the reliability of equipment can literally be a matter of life and death.
At Faes, we understand the complex challenges involved in the safe storage and transport of sensitive equipment with lithium batteries. That is why we develop customised packaging solutions that not only offer protection against physical damage, but also contribute to temperature stability during storage and transport.
Even without an advanced HVAC system, there are effective solutions. Consider passive measures such as good insulation, reflective sun blinds and placing batteries in central locations away from exterior walls. Simple devices such as a stand-alone air conditioner with a thermostat or a heating element with temperature control may be sufficient for smaller spaces. In addition, install a reliable thermometer with a min/max function to monitor temperature fluctuations.
Watch for the following warning signs: unusual swelling or deformation of the battery, increased heat production during use, significantly faster discharge than normal, or reduced capacity. Physical damage to the casing may also indicate internal problems. If you notice one or more of these signs, stop using the battery immediately and place it in a fire-safe environment, preferably a special container for damaged lithium batteries.
Optimal preparation is essential for long-term storage. First, bring the battery to a charge level of 40-60% (never fully charged or discharged). Clean the contact points and inspect for damage. Place each battery in non-conductive, fireproof packaging to prevent short circuits. Store them in a dry room with a stable temperature between 10-20°C, ideally with low humidity (30-50%). Note the storage date and schedule periodic checks to monitor the condition.
