Lithium batteries have become the preferred energy source to power a wide variety of consumer goods ranging from mobile phones to children toys to e-bikes and passenger vehicles. Though widely used, most people are not aware that lithium batteries are dangerous goods and can pose a safety risk if not manufactured and prepared in accordance with applicable regulations.
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Definition
Lithium batteries are a family of batteries with different chemistries, comprising many types of cathodes and electrolytes. For the purposes of the DGR they are separated into:
Lithium metal batteries
Are generally primary, non-rechargeable batteries that have lithium metal or lithium compounds as an anode. These batteries feature a higher energy density than the conventional alkaline batteries. Lithium metal batteries are used to power all kind of devices or are used as back-up power.
Lithium ion batteries
Are a type of secondary (rechargeable) battery commonly used in consumer electronics. This category also includes Lithium polymer batteries. Due to the fact that these batteries are rechargeable it is often used in all kind of consumer electronics.
Battery
“Battery” means two or more cells which are electrically connected together and fitted with devices necessary for use, for example, case, terminals, marking and protective devices. A “cell” is a single encased electrochemical unit (one positive and one negative electrode) with a voltage differential across its two terminals.
Cell
“Cell” means a single encased electrochemical unit (one positive and one negative electrode) which exhibits a voltage differential across its two terminals. According IATA.ICAO regulations a encased electrochemical unit is always regarded as a cell and not a battery regardless whether the unit is termed a “battery” or a “single cell battery” outside DG regulations.
Why dangerous
Lithium batteries may be subject to a so called “thermal runaway.” This occurs when the internal circuitry is compromised, causing an increase in temperature in one or more of the cells. The heat can reach a point where the cells vent hot gasses, which can then increase the temperature in neighboring cells until there is ignition and a fire. In short; because of the tendency of lithium batteries to ignite and burn violently when exposed to heat or fire, large quantities of batteries pose a significant risk to the safety of an aircraft. A shipment of lithium batteries can intensify the severity of a fire considerably and a relatively small incident can lead to an uncontrolled fire.
Examples
Lithium-Ion operated devices: smart phones, tablets, laptops, electronic cigarettes, drones, camera´s, filming equipment, electrical tools, medical equipment, self-balancing devices.
Lithium Metal operated devices: watches, pacemakers, remote control, hearing aids, calculators, remote car lock.
Booking
Documentation
Lithium batteries must always be properly declared. The declared information is essential for correct transport and handling, notification to captain and proper actions in case of incidents. The information regarding Section I, IA and IB must be declared on a “Shipper´s declaration for dangerous goods”. Section II information must be indicated in the “Nature and Quantity of Goods” box on the Air Waybill.
Loading restrictions
Lithium batteries packages and overpacks loaded in a cargo aircraft must be loaded onto the main
deck where they are accessible in case of an emergency. For large shipments of lithium batteries,
where possible, the lithium batteries packages must be split evenly between the positions on the main
deck.
General packaging guidelines
One of the major risks associated with the transport of batteries and battery-powered equipment is short-circuit of the battery as a result of the battery terminals coming into contact with other batteries, metal objects, or conductive surfaces. Packaged batteries or cells must be separated in a way to prevent short circuits and damage to terminals. They must be packed in a strong outer packaging or be contained in equipment. For specific packing instructions always consult the applicable packing instructions in the IATA DGR.
Note: do not ship damaged, defective, leaking or recalled batteries by aircraft! Damaged packages containing lithium batteries are not permitted to be shipped by air even if they are repacked!
Labeling
In order to identify packages containing lithium batteries it is essential to label them as specified in IATA DGR.
Please check the current dangerous goods regulations or the lithium battery guidance document on IATA for more extensive information on required documentation per shipment and possible restrictions.
