Lithium-ion batteries continue to transform consumer
electronics,
mobility, and energy storage sectors, and the applications and demands
for batteries keep growing. Supply limitations and costs may lead
to counterfeit cells in the supply chain that could affect quality,
safety, and reliability of batteries. Our research included studies
of counterfeit and low-quality lithium-ion cells, and our observations
on the differences between these and original ones, as well as the
significant safety implications, are discussed. The counterfeit cells
did not include internal protective devices such as the positive temperature
coefficient or current interrupt devices that typically offer protection
against external short circuits and overcharge conditions, respectively,
in cells from original manufacturers. Poor-quality materials and lack
of engineering knowledge were also evident on analyses of the electrodes
and separators from low-quality manufacturers. When the low-quality
cells were subjected to off-nominal conditions, they experienced high
temperature, electrolyte leakage, thermal runaway, and fire. In contrast,
the authentic lithium-ion cells performed as expected. Recommendations
are provided to identify and avoid counterfeit and low-quality lithium-ion
cells and batteries.