What is the primary cause of lithium-ion battery fires?

The primary cause of lithium-ion battery fires is battery overheating due to malfunction. When a battery overheats, it can lead to thermal runaway, a chain reaction that causes the battery to reach very high temperatures. This overheating can occur due to various factors, including internal short circuits, manufacturing defects, or poor battery management systems.

As the temperature rises, the chemical components within the battery can become unstable, resulting in combustion or even explosive reactions. It's crucial to recognize that while other factors such as incorrect usage of power outlets or physical damage to the battery can contribute to safety risks, overheating due to internal malfunctions is the most direct and critical cause of lithium-ion battery fires. Managing proper charging practices and ensuring that the batteries are in good condition are essential to prevent such incidents.