Battery Disposal
When a battery reaches the end of its life, responsible disposal will ensure reduced environmental impact and reduced risk to handlers. Lithium batteries that are being retired due to damage present a greater fire hazard. A battery can be considered hazardous due to physical damage or if the battery is functioning outside of safety parameters specified in Section, Battery Health.
STEP 1: Discharge the Battery
If the battery is not physically damaged and it is safe to do so, discharge the battery by connecting it to a device that draws power from it, such as the charger or a discharge device.
If the battery is punctured and not deemed safe to discharge with a device, completely engulf the LiPo battery with sand or a chemical extinguishing agent (such as dry ABC fire extinguisher power) and contact your local disposal center for disposal directions.
DO NOT use the aircraft for this purpose.
Safety Precautions: Handle the battery with extreme caution. Wear appropriate protective gear such as gloves and safety goggles to protect yourself from chemical exposure and potential fire hazards.
In case of ignition use a Class D fire extinguisher, DO NOT use water or a traditional fire extinguisher, as they can exacerbate the fire and cause the battery to rupture or release toxic gasses. If a Class D fire extinguisher is not available, cover the LiPo battery with sand, dry chemical extinguishing agent (such as dry ABC fire extinguisher powder), or a fire blanket to smother the flames and prevent oxygen from fueling the fire.
Isolation: Store discharged LiPo batteries in a cool, dry place away from flammable/combustible materials. Avoid storing them in direct sunlight or extreme temperatures.
Discharge:
If the battery is not physically damaged and it is safe to do so, discharge the battery by connecting it to a device that draws power from it, such as the charger or a discharge device, NOT the aircraft.
If the battery is punctured and not deemed safe to discharge with a device, completely engulf the LiPo battery with sand or a chemical extinguishing agent (such as dry ABC fire extinguisher power) and contact your local disposal center for disposal directions.
Prep and Disposal: Once the battery is discharged and secured it can be taken to a battery recycling facility. Contact your local battery recycle facility for Disposal prep instructions. You can use the Call2Recycle drop-off location website to locate a recycle facility near you.
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