Is it true that a vaper can explode?

If you’ve switched to electronic cigarettes, you’ve probably heard alarming news about the safety of these devices. Is it true that a vaper can explode, or is it just a myth? We’ll reveal everything below.

The truth about exploding vapes

Since the first vape models hit the market, the media and social networks have not missed the opportunity to report on accidents involving these devices. Online, you can find images and videos of electronic cigarettes exploding in the pocket of their owner’s pants or right in their face, causing serious burns.

The reality is that around one hundred batteries explode worldwide each year, and these are batteries from all types of devices: mobile phones, electric scooters, or any device powered by a lithium-ion battery. However, industries like the tobacco industry are interested in launching dramatic campaigns to discredit these devices, even though the issue is not exclusive to vapes.

It’s the battery that bursts

In reality, the cigarette itself doesn’t explode, nor is there an actual explosion. What happens is that the battery overheats and spontaneously discharges completely. This causes a thermal energy leak that heats up the entire mechanism until bubbles of oxygen, CO2, and other gases form, which can cause burns or trigger a fire.

These incidents can occur but are very rare because vape batteries (like those in other devices) must meet stringent safety standards. Nonetheless, while these cases are anecdotal, it’s useful to understand what conditions can trigger this reaction in a battery. This way, we can learn what to do (and what not to do) to use electronic devices more safely.

What is a lithium-ion battery?

First, it’s important to understand how lithium-ion batteries work. Like mobile phone batteries, they consist of several layers of materials capable of storing electricity. These layers are separated by insulating sheets that prevent the anode and cathode layers from coming into contact. The anodes and cathodes have opposite charges, and by being insulated, they create a potential difference that generates the required voltage.

This insulation between layers is crucial and is included in all global safety standards. If these layers were missing or damaged, the anodes and cathodes would touch, causing an instant discharge of electricity, which could result in an explosion similar to a firecracker. Therefore, batteries are designed with robust protection to prevent this from happening.

Reasons a vape could explode

So, what could cause a vape to explode? Here are four common reasons:

Manufacturing defect

This is rare, but the likelihood increases if you purchase devices without CE certification or counterfeit products.

Battery damage

A drop could cause the battery to shift, move, or break. If the material containing the cells is damaged, it could create a short circuit and lead to an explosion.

Improper battery use

This includes using a faulty charger or one that’s incompatible with the battery, such as a charger from another device.

Overheating

Like other electronic devices, vapes should not be exposed to direct sunlight and should be kept away from heat sources.

How to identify a defective battery

How can you tell if a vape battery is defective and might explode? In many cases, users don’t realize that a battery is damaged or fail to interpret the warning signs. Here are the symptoms to watch out for:

• The device turns on and off spontaneously.
• The battery charge lasts significantly less time than usual.
• The battery does not fully charge.
• The device frequently overheats.
• The battery casing is damaged or worn.
• The device appears swollen or deformed.

If you notice any of these issues, it’s best to have an expert inspect the battery. Some vapes allow the old battery to be replaced with a new one.

Tips for using batteries safely

To minimize risks, experts recommend following several safety tips applicable to any lithium-ion battery-powered device:

• Choose a quality vape with all necessary safety certifications.
• Always use certified chargers. It’s best to use the original charger that comes with the device, as it delivers the exact power needed for the battery.
• Do not use a battery that has been exposed to high temperatures, such as leaving the vape in a hot car all day.
• Avoid covering the device with objects while charging.
• Do not use batteries that have been inactive for a long time or show signs of damage or corrosion.
• Never use any type of battery in areas with a combustion risk, such as gas stations or places with flammable materials.

As you can see, while it’s a rare occurrence, a vape can indeed explode, especially if proper precautions aren’t taken. Battery manufacturers are already exploring solutions to this problem, such as solid-state batteries and sodium batteries. However, these technologies are not yet widely available, so we must continue to exercise caution in the meantime.