Transport and storage of lithium batteries

The very high reaetivity of lithium, partieularly with humidity from the air and with water, means eaution must be exereised when transporting it. 

42 As is the case, for instance, in cobalt C-LiCo02 elements, an excessive discharge leads to the oversaturation of the LCO, which decomposes to produce hthium oxide Li20 and cobalt oxide CoO. 

There are very strict international regulations surrounding land, air or maritime transport of lithium-ion secondary batteries but also metal-lithium secondary batteries or even lithium primary batteries (which contain metal lithium). 

In the same vein, the storage of lithium-based primary and secondary cells with a view to recycling must be done so that there is absolutely no danger of contact between the terminals of the elements, which could cause intense currents and, consequently, an increase in temperature with the risk of fire and/or explosion. 

43 These regulations continue to evolve over time. It is helpful to refer to whatever regulation is in force at the time of transport. The latest update came into force on 1 January 2013. The apphcable conditions are displayed, among other places, at the premises of transport contractors (TNT , UPS , Chronopost , etc.) or of battery manufacturers. 

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