The safety of lithium ion batteries is becoming more important as their use spreads initially from consumer applications to electric and hybrid vehicles, stationary uses, portable electronics, aircraft, and toys. The hazards can be dangerous to people and property and range from simple venting of hot corrosive gases to explosions. Thankfully there are modern tools and disciplines available that support the development of robust designs with few unexpected incidents. Despite the sensitivity of the technology to overcharge and high temperature, lithium ion batteries can be managed with sophisticated electronic management systems capable of monitoring behavior rapidly and with high precision and accuracy. While development time frames require timescales measured in years, the evolution of safety standards to ensure safe products is of the same magnitude.
