Smartphone batteries leak over 100 toxic gases

Washington, Oct. 21: More than 100 potentially fatal gases are produced by the batteries found in billions of consumer devices such as smartphones and tablets, a new study has warned.

The research identified over 100 toxic gases released by lithium batteries, including carbon monoxide, which can cause strong irritations to the skin, eyes and nasal passages and harm the wider environment.

Researchers from the Institute of NBC Defence in the US and Tsinghua University in China said many people may be unaware of the dangers of overheating, damaging or using a disreputable charger for their rechargeable devices.

In the new study, they investigated a type of rechargeable battery, known as a “lithiumion” battery, which is placed in two billion consumer devices every year.

“Nowadays, lithiumion batteries are being actively promoted by many governments all over the world as a viable energy solution to power everything from electric vehicles to mobile devices,” said Jie Sun, lead author and professor at the Institute of NBC Defence.

“The lithium-ion battery is used by millions of families, so it is imperative that the general public understand the risks behind this energy source,” said Sun.

Sun and her colleagues identified several factors that can cause an increase in the concentration of the toxic gases emitted. A fully charged battery will release more toxic gases than a battery with 50 per cent charge. The chemicals contained in the batteries also affected the concentrations and types of toxic gases released. — PTI