On Lithium Ion
Whether the pagers that exploded in Lebanon were compromised through tampering in the supply chain or by sending a strong frequency that bypassed the devices' overheating protection, both scenarios hinge on the presence of lithium-ion batteries. These batteries, common in consumer products such as e-cigarettes, laptops, electric vehicles, and smartphones, pose unique risks. But how can you protect yourself from the potential hazards of lithium-ion-powered devices, which, under certain conditions, can be compromised or even explode?
Many devices are equipped with overheating protection mechanisms, which regulate the flow of electricity to prevent overheating. However, lithium-ion batteries are highly energy-dense, and without these safeguards, they can enter a state known as "thermal runaway." This occurs when an overheated battery cell triggers a self-perpetuating reaction, where heat accelerates chemical reactions, further raising temperatures until the battery reaches up to 300°C and may ultimately explode.
Thermal runaway can be triggered if a battery is overcharged, although most modern devices have built-in protections. Yet, these safety features can fail due to manufacturing defects, physical damage to the battery, or the use of low-quality third-party chargers. Physical damage, for example, can cause the battery’s anode and cathode to come into contact, resulting in a short circuit. Additionally, exposing lithium-ion batteries to high external temperatures degrades their internal stability, increasing the risk of overheating and failure.
What Can You Do to Protect Yourself?
Assess Supply Chains: If you're using company-issued devices, particularly in industries such as defense, scrutinize the supply chain for vulnerabilities. Recent events, such as the Lebanon pager explosions, show how compromised devices can pose significant risks.
Purchase from Authorized Retailers: Always buy devices from official retail stores or authorized sellers. Cheaper, third-party, or counterfeit products may lack essential safety features, which could be how they cut costs.
Use Original Chargers: Using third-party chargers can result in improper voltage or poor safety standards, increasing the likelihood of overheating. Stick to manufacturer-approved accessories.
Monitor Device Temperature: If your phone or other devices feel unusually hot, stop using them and allow them to cool down. Unplug them if they’re charging, as overheating during charging is a common issue.
Avoid Extreme Temperatures: Do not expose devices to direct sunlight or extreme cold, which can damage the battery and lead to condensation or overheating.
Inspect for Physical Damage: If you notice your device is physically swollen or deformed, turn it off immediately and stop using it. Swelling indicates internal battery damage that could lead to an explosion.
Store Devices Properly: When storing devices for a prolonged period, maintain a charge of about 70-80%. Avoid letting them fully discharge or remain fully charged for extended periods, as this can degrade battery health.
