Lithium Battery Storage and Shipping : A Guide

     Lithium Batteries are in everything nowadays. You can check out this article on lithium batteries to see exactly where they are installed and how many devices you may have that you are unware of that contain this magical element.

    But let us take it back a moment. The history of lithium and mining is a pretty amazing story, let us use the magic of the internet and AI a bit to recap how we all got here.

The history of lithium mining traces the discovery, development, and increasing global demand for this critical metal, driven largely by its use in batteries and technology. Here's a timeline of the major milestones in the history of lithium mining:

1. Discovery of Lithium (1817)

• Early Discovery: Lithium was discovered by Swedish chemist Johan August Arfvedson in 1817 while analyzing the mineral petalite. He identified a new element within the mineral but did not isolate it. The name "lithium" comes from "lithos," the Greek word for stone, as it was found in solid minerals.
• Isolation (1855): The first isolation of lithium metal was done by German chemists Robert Bunsen and Augustus Matthiessen through electrolysis of lithium chloride.

2. Early Uses and Mining (Late 1800s - Early 1900s)

• Pharmaceuticals: Lithium salts were initially used in psychiatric treatments, particularly for mood stabilization, starting in the late 19th century.
• First Lithium Production: Small-scale lithium production began in the late 1800s, focusing on extracting lithium from mineral sources like spodumene. Early mining operations were primarily focused in the U.S. and Europe.

3. Lithium in Glass and Ceramics (1920s - 1950s)

• Lithium mining gained importance in the 1920s when lithium carbonate began being used as a flux in glass and ceramic industries. It was found to improve strength, thermal resistance, and the quality of ceramic products.
• Spodumene Mining: Spodumene, a lithium-rich mineral, became a primary source of lithium, with significant mining activities starting in the U.S., particularly in North Carolina.

4. Cold War and Military Demand (1940s - 1960s)

• Nuclear Applications: During the Cold War, lithium production spiked due to its role in producing lithium-6, a critical component in the production of hydrogen bombs. The U.S. government increased lithium extraction to meet military needs.
• Global Production Expansion: As demand grew, new lithium sources were explored in countries like Canada and Australia. Australia, in particular, began large-scale spodumene mining.

5. Rise of Lithium Brine Extraction (1960s - 1980s)

• Chilean and Bolivian Deposits: In the 1960s, significant lithium brine deposits were discovered in the salt flats of Chile, Bolivia, and Argentina, also known as the "Lithium Triangle." This region became an important source of lithium due to its vast lithium-rich brines.
• Brine Extraction: Lithium brine extraction emerged as a more cost-effective method than mining lithium from hard rock. The process involves pumping lithium-rich brine to the surface, evaporating the water, and extracting lithium compounds like lithium carbonate. Chile became a major global supplier.

6. Lithium in Batteries and Electronics (1990s - 2000s)

• Lithium-Ion Batteries: The development of lithium-ion batteries in the late 20th century, pioneered by chemists like John B. Goodenough, revolutionized lithium demand. These rechargeable batteries, first commercialized by Sony in 1991, became essential for portable electronics like laptops, mobile phones, and later, electric vehicles (EVs).
• Boom in Demand: As the world entered the digital age, the demand for lithium grew exponentially, particularly from the consumer electronics industry. Countries like Australia, Chile, and Argentina became major producers.

7. The EV and Renewable Energy Boom (2010s - Present)

• Electric Vehicles (EVs): The rise of electric vehicles, driven by companies like Tesla, Nissan, and others, fueled a lithium mining boom. Lithium-ion batteries are the key energy storage technology for EVs, leading to a massive surge in global lithium demand.
• Energy Storage Systems: Lithium batteries are also essential in renewable energy storage, allowing solar and wind power to be stored for use when needed. This further boosted lithium's importance in the global energy transition.

8. Current and Future Trends (2020s and Beyond)

Ok did you get through all of that ? We hope so but it is very important information as the packing, shipping, storage, and transportation of lithium is a very detailed process. You must be licensed, insured, trained, and experience in the field as not only human but environmental hazards can result from mishandling.

Now that we have an understanding of how this all came to be storage of lithium batteries must meet the following criteria.

Storing lithium batteries safely is crucial to prevent hazards such as fires, leaks, and explosions. Here’s a guide on how to safely store lithium batteries:

1. Store in a Cool, Dry Place

• Temperature Range: Store lithium batteries at room temperature, ideally between 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). Avoid exposing them to extreme heat or cold, as high temperatures can lead to thermal runaway, and freezing temperatures can degrade the battery’s performance.
• Avoid Humidity: Ensure that the storage area is dry to prevent moisture from penetrating the battery, which can cause corrosion or short circuits.

2. Use Fireproof Containers

• Fireproof Cabinets/Containers: If you are storing a large number of lithium batteries or high-capacity ones (e.g., for power tools or electric vehicles), use a fireproof container or cabinet to contain any potential fire or explosion.
• Avoid Flammable Materials: Store batteries away from flammable materials (e.g., paper, cloth, chemicals) to reduce the risk of fire spreading in the event of a battery malfunction.

3. Partial Charge for Long-Term Storage

• Optimal Charge Level: For long-term storage, lithium-ion batteries should be stored at a charge level between 30% and 50%. Fully charged or fully depleted batteries are more prone to degradation and instability.
• Avoid Fully Charging: Storing fully charged batteries for extended periods can increase stress on the cells, reducing their lifespan.

4. Separate Batteries from Metal Objects

• Prevent Short Circuits: Ensure that batteries do not come into contact with metal objects such as keys, coins, or tools, which could cause short circuits. Use battery cases, individual packaging, or store batteries in their original packaging to keep terminals separated.
• Avoid Stacking Batteries: Do not stack or pile batteries directly on top of each other, especially loose batteries. This can lead to physical damage or accidental short-circuiting.

5. Ventilation

• Ensure Proper Airflow: Store lithium batteries in a well-ventilated area to allow any gases produced in case of a battery malfunction to disperse safely.
• Avoid Sealed Containers: Do not store batteries in tightly sealed containers without proper ventilation, as this can trap heat and increase the risk of thermal events.

6. Check for Damage

• Inspect Regularly: Regularly check stored batteries for signs of damage such as bulging, cracks, leaks, or corrosion. Damaged batteries pose a higher risk of fire and should be disposed of properly according to local regulations.
• Avoid Using Damaged Batteries: Do not store or use batteries that show any signs of physical or chemical damage.

7. Fire Safety Precautions

• Fire Extinguishers: Keep a Class D fire extinguisher (suitable for lithium battery fires) or a fire blanket nearby the storage area. Lithium battery fires cannot be extinguished with regular water or CO2 fire extinguishers.
• Safety Protocols: If you are storing lithium batteries in an industrial or commercial setting, establish clear safety protocols and train personnel on how to handle battery-related fires or incidents.

8. Avoid Overcrowding

• Spacing: Ensure batteries are spaced apart to prevent heat buildup and to allow air to circulate between them. This reduces the risk of overheating and improves safety in case of a malfunction.
• Avoid Overloading Shelves: Don’t overload storage shelves with too many batteries, especially if they are large-capacity ones. Overcrowded batteries are more prone to accidental damage or heating.

9. Label Batteries Clearly

• Label for Identification: If you are storing multiple types of lithium batteries, clearly label them to identify their type, capacity, and charge level. This makes it easier to manage storage and reduce the risk of using incompatible or damaged batteries.
• Track Storage Time: For large-scale storage, it’s useful to mark the date of storage to track how long the batteries have been stored. Rotate stock regularly to ensure batteries are used before their performance degrades.

10. Separate Charged and Discharged Batteries

• Charged vs. Discharged: If storing multiple batteries, separate fully charged batteries from partially or fully discharged ones. This reduces the chance of an uncontrolled discharge, which could lead to overheating or other issues.

11. Avoid Physical Impact

• Protect from Drops and Damage: Store batteries in a location where they will not be dropped or knocked over. Physical impact can cause internal damage, leading to short circuits or fires.
• No Heavy Loads: Avoid placing heavy objects on top of stored batteries, as this could cause punctures or damage.

There was recently a huge cargo container carrying over 75,000 lbs of lithium that overturned on the I-15 from Las Angeles to Las Vegas on it's way to Wisconsin that caused a multi-day fire that shut down the highway.

What about disposal ??

Proper Disposal of Old Batteries

• Recycle: Do not store old or used lithium batteries indefinitely. Dispose of them through authorized battery recycling programs to prevent environmental hazards and fire risks.
• Follow Local Regulations: Be sure to follow your region’s specific disposal guidelines for lithium batteries, as improper disposal can be dangerous.

13. Emergency Plans

• Develop an Emergency Response Plan: If storing lithium batteries in a workplace or industrial setting, have a clear emergency plan for battery-related incidents, including fire and explosion scenarios.
• Training: Train employees or household members on how to safely store and handle lithium batteries, and what to do in case of an emergency.

By following these safety measures, you can significantly reduce the risks associated with lithium battery storage and ensure a safe environment.

We here at Las Vegas Crating and Logistics meet all government, federal, and state qualifications and certifications when it comes to the proper handling, shipping, transportation and storage of all lithium services. We hope that this article helped you out and please look up this article on lithium battery storage for more information.