Long-term Battery Storage: Degradation, Leaks, and Best Practices

Battery Degradation During Prolonged Storage

Prolonged storage of batteries can lead to capacity and efficiency losses due to internal chemical degradation. The deterioration is influenced by factors such as temperature, state of charge, and humidity. High temperatures accelerate the internal chemical reaction, reducing the lifespan of the cells.

According to the IEC standard and technical documents from the NIST, ideal storage should be carried out in a cool and dry environment, preferably with temperatures between 15°C and 25°C.

Risks of Leaks and Environmental Damage

Over time, batteries may experience electrolyte leakage, substances that are corrosive and harmful to the environment. Leaks result from the deterioration of internal seals, a risk exacerbated by inappropriate storage conditions such as excessive heat or high humidity.

Leakage can cause soil and water contamination, as defined by current environmental legislation (Law No. 12.305/2010 - National Solid Waste Policy). Proper storage control prevents the generation of hazardous waste and minimizes environmental impacts, aligning with the National Solid Waste Plan and the guidelines of the CETESB.

Recommended Practices for Safe Battery Storage

• Keep batteries in a dry, ventilated place with controlled temperature, preferably between 15°C and 25°C.
• Store batteries partially charged (around 40% to 60% charge) to reduce degradation.
• Avoid contact of batteries with metallic materials that could cause short circuits.
• Periodically monitor the condition of the batteries, checking for signs of swelling, leakage, or corrosion.
• Strictly follow the time limits indicated by the manufacturer, performing stock rotation to avoid excessive storage.
• In case of damaged or expired batteries, send them for certified electronic waste collection according to environmental regulations.

Collection and Disposal According to Current Legislation

Improper disposal of batteries can cause significant impacts on public health and the environment. Proper handling must observe the provisions of the National Solid Waste Policy (Law No. 12.305/2010), which establishes shared responsibility for the product lifecycle.

For environmentally correct disposal, the use of specialized electronic waste collection services is recommended. To schedule collection, visit electronic waste collection. For safe disposal of media such as hard drives (HD), technical sanitization is essential, with scheduling available at HD sanitization.

Conclusion

Proper management of battery storage is crucial to avoid accelerated degradation and environmental risks. Implementing the recommended practices alongside compliance with current legislation contributes to operational safety and environmental protection.