When lithium batteries get into the water, we need to take the right measures to deal with them to ensure safety and protect the battery as much as possible.
When water gets into a lithium battery, first stay calm and take the following steps immediately:
Disconnect the power supply: If the lithium battery is still connected to the device, it should be disconnected immediately to avoid possible short circuits and battery damage.
Take out the battery: Remove the lithium battery from the device for further inspection and handling.
Wipe clean: Use a dry cloth or paper towel to gently wipe the moisture on the surface of the battery. Avoid using heating devices such as hot air or hair dryers, as overheating may damage the battery.
Air-drying: Place the battery in a dry, well-ventilated environment and allow it to air dry naturally. Do not rush to reinsert the battery or recharge.
Inspect the battery: Carefully inspect the surface of the battery for visible signs of damage or corrosion. If so, it is recommended not to continue using the battery to avoid triggering safety issues.
Reuse: If the battery has been thoroughly dried and there are no visible signs of damage, try reinserting the device or charging it. However, it is important to note that even if the battery is still functional, water ingress may negatively affect its performance and longevity.
It should be noted that lithium batteries may cause the following problems after water ingress:
Corrosion: Water ingress can cause corrosion inside the battery, damaging the structure and chemical composition of the battery.
Short circuit: In the presence of moisture, the battery may undergo a short circuit, causing the battery to overheat or even**.
Degradation in performance: Even if the battery can function properly after drying, its performance such as capacity, charging speed, and usage time may be affected.
Therefore, although sometimes lithium batteries can still be used after they have entered the water, it is advisable to replace them with new ones to be on the safe side. In addition, if the battery is damaged due to water ingress causing damage to the device itself, the device should also be repaired or replaced in time.