Part 6/12:

The Dangers of Defective Batteries: Understanding Thermal Runaway

Power bank explosions can occur through a process known as thermal runaway, where internal components overheat uncontrollably. Derrick Farm, a researcher in lithium-ion battery safety, explains that these batteries consist of an anode, cathode, separator, and electrolyte—all vulnerable if misused or poorly manufactured.

When a short circuit or overcharge causes the internal temperature of the battery to exceed about 80°C, the electrolyte begins to decompose rapidly. This leads to a vicious cycle where heat accelerates further decomposition, causing the battery to swell, rupture, and sometimes burst into flames. The internal reaction becomes self-sustaining, and uncontrolled fires are very difficult to extinguish.