Introduction

With the widespread use of lithium batteries in electronics, electric vehicles, and energy storage systems, proper storage has become a critical concern. Incorrect storage conditions can lead to performance degradation, reduced lifespan, and even fire hazards. This guide outlines the optimal storage conditions, government regulations, and warehouse management recommendations to ensure safe lithium battery storage.

Lithium Battery Storage Requirements

1. Short-Term Storage Conditions

• Temperature: -20°C to +40°C

• Humidity: Below 85%

• Other Requirements: No corrosive gases

2. Long-Term Storage / Optimal Conditions

• Temperature: -20°C to +25°C (lower temperatures slow self-discharge)

• Humidity: Below 75%

• Other Requirements: No corrosive gases

 
3. Power status: SOC before storage

• Recommended SOC level: Charge the battery to 40%-60% before storage

• Risks of full charge: Long-term storage at full charge will accelerate capacity decrease

• Dangers of full discharge: Deep discharge may cause the battery capacity to be unable to recover

 
Note: For long-term storage, a lower temperature range (e.g., 0°C to 25°C) is recommended to minimize aging.

Effects of Improper Storage

1. Short-Term, Minor Exceedance of Limits

• Increased self-discharge

• Voltage drops

• Higher internal resistance

2. Long-Term, Severe Exceedance of Limits

• Irreversible capacity loss

• Reduced cycle life

• Safety risks (leakage, swelling, or fire)

Government Regulations on Lithium Battery Storage

Due to frequent fire incidents involving lithium batteries, safety and fire departments have tightened regulations, including:

• Separate Storage: Lithium batteries must be stored separately from other materials.

• Safety Measures: Warehouses must have fire prevention equipment (e.g., extinguishers, smoke detectors) and emergency exits.

• Environmental Monitoring: Temperature and humidity must be recorded to ensure compliance.

Warehouse Management Recommendations

1. Environmental Control

• Follow electronic component warehouse standards.

• Keep doors and windows closed to prevent moisture.

• Temperature & Humidity Control:

• Activate dehumidifiers when humidity ≥70%, keeping it below 75%.

• Turn on air conditioning when temperature ≥28°C, maintaining ≤33°C.

• Ideally, run AC and dehumidifiers 24/7 (if feasible).

• No Heat-Producing Devices: Avoid storing equipment that generates heat.

2. Battery Placement

• Store by category and model to prevent mixing.

• Follow the "light on top, heavy at bottom" rule; stacking height ≤1.5m or 8 cartons.

• Use "First-In-First-Out" (FIFO) to prevent prolonged storage.

3. Safety Precautions

• Fire Prevention: No open flames; provide fire extinguishers (e.g., dry powder type).

• Moisture & Sun Protection: Keep the warehouse dry, ventilated, and shielded from sunlight/rain.

• Handling Guidelines: Use proper tools to avoid drops, impacts, or compression.

• Packaging Protection: Unused batteries should remain sealed in original packaging.

Post-Storage Testing Requirements

After storage exceeding 6 months, batteries must be tested before use, including:

• Capacity Test (ensure no significant capacity loss)

• Voltage & Internal Resistance Check (assess battery health)

• Visual Inspection (check cylindrical cells for leakage, pouch cells for swelling)

Handling of Defective Batteries:

• Minor issues: Sort out and use after full inspection.

• Major issues: Contact the supplier for resolution.

Summary
Safe lithium battery storage is crucial for performance, longevity, and user safety. Companies and individuals must comply with government regulations, optimize warehouse conditions, and conduct regular inspections. Proper storage is necessary to minimize risks and extends battery life.

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