Battery recycling has presented many challenges in the waste management industry, specifically Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) due to their explosive nature. LIBs power more than 70 percent of the world’s rechargeable devices, including smartphones, smartwatches, laptops, tablets, and electric vehicles. As technology evolves, battery fires have increased, specifically in e-scrap facilities, making responsible IT asset disposition crucial.
Lithium-Ion Batteries Spark Chemical Fires
Most batteries can be dangerous if improperly handled, but LIBs are especially dangerous. Highly flammable and sensitive to high temperatures, LIBs undergo self-discharge, which can lead to a thermal runaway, causing a significant electrical shortage. During a thermal runaway, the heat from a failed cell can spread to the next one, making it also thermally unstable. This reaction can start a chemical fire, which is significantly more difficult to extinguish and can reignite hours later.
Increase in Battery Fires in 2024
Battery fires have been an issue in the waste industry for years, with an average of 19.4 lithium-ion battery fires per year reported to MFIRS from 2019 to 2023 alone. Most battery fires occur in materials recovery facilities (MRFs) and continue to increase in numbers. According to an annual fire detection equipment supplier Fire Rover review, 14 publicly reported fires at North American electronics recycling facilities in 2024, representing a 56% increase over the prior year.
Responsible IT asset disposition is becoming increasingly critical to prevent battery fires. When e-waste is thrown out with regular waste, chemical battery fires can ignite in garbage trucks, landfills, and even homes.
Fire Prevention with ITAD
The safest and most responsible method for electronic waste disposal, including batteries, is recycling through a professional disposition service. IT asset disposition companies like HOBI collect old electronics and ensure their safe and proper disposal.
HOBI International, Inc. is an R2v3, RIOS, and IS0 14001 certified IT asset management and disposition enterprise with more than 30 years of experience in the waste disposal industry. Our trained professionals undergo training and take special precautions when handling lithium-ion batteries during battery removal. HOBI prioritizes the safety of employees with fire safety practices and special tools during the disposition process.
For more information about our ITAD services, call 817-814-2620 or contact HOBI at sales@hobi.com.