Lithium-ion batteries power everything from smartphones to electric vehicles, but what happens when the lithium-ion battery gets wet? Water exposure risks short circuits, chemical reactions, corrosion, and even fires. While lead-acid batteries fail rapidly when wet, modern lithium batteries offer superior safety—if engineered correctly. Tritek’s IP67-certified lithium-ion battery packs defy these threats, surviving submerged lithium battery scenarios where others fail. Discover why 92% of marine battery failures trace to poor sealing—and how IP67 changes everything.
Understanding Lithium-ion Batteries
Lithium-ion batteries consist of an anode, cathode, electrolyte, and separator within a sealed battery casing. The electrolyte is often a flammable, organic solvent. When this internal chemistry comes into contact with water, it can cause dangerous reactions, especially if the battery’s protective casing is compromised.
There are different types of lithium-ion batteries, including:
- Standard Lithium-ion: Common in consumer electronics, these are more prone to instability when exposed to water.
- Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4): Known for greater safety and stability, often used in applications requiring durability, such as marine or outdoor settings.
- Lithium Cobalt Oxide (LCO): Commonly used in portable electronics due to its high energy density but less stable and more vulnerable to damage when exposed to water.
Most lithium batteries are designed for dry environments, and many lithium batteries lack adequate sealing to handle wet or humid conditions. Batteries without proper protection are vulnerable, while those with high IP ratings, like Tritek’s IP67-certified models, are built to resist water ingress.
Risks of Water Exposure
Immediate Effects of Water Exposure
- Short Circuits: Water conducts electricity, and when it enters the battery, it can bridge terminals that shouldn’t connect—leading to internal short circuits.
- Heat and Fire: Short circuits generate heat. In some cases, this can lead to thermal runaway or even fire.
- Swelling or Leakage: Water can trigger internal chemical breakdown, causing the casing to swell or leak harmful electrolytes.
Long-Term Consequences
Even if the battery seems fine after drying, long-term damage may already be underway:
- Corrosion: Moisture can corrode battery’s terminals and internal components.
- Capacity Loss: The battery’s ability to hold charge diminishes.
- Safety Hazards: Weak internal barriers increase the chance of future shorts or fire.
Water Resistance Ratings: What Do They Mean?
Ingress Protection (IP) ratings indicate a device’s resistance to dust and water. The rating consists of two digits:
- The first digit (e.g., 6) represents dust protection (6 = dust-tight).
- The second digit (e.g., 5 or 7) indicates water resistance.
For example, lithium marine batteries often require at least an IP67 rating to ensure reliable operation in wet dock or onboard environments.
IP Rating | Dust Protection | Water Protection | Suitability |
|---|---|---|---|
IP65 | Dust-tight | Protected against low-pressure water jets | Suitable for outdoor use, but not submersion |
IP67 | Dust-tight | Protected against submersion up to 1 meter for 30 minutes | Ideal for marine or wet environments |
Tritek’s IP67-certified batteries are designed to withstand submersion, making them a reliable choice for applications where water exposure is a concern, such as boating, camping, or other application in humid climates.
Tritek’s Advantage: IP67-Certified Battery Packs
At Tritek, our lithium-ion battery packs are IP67-certified, meaning they are both dust-tight and waterproof for temporary immersion. This ensures our batteries remain safe and functional in harsh conditions—whether you’re powering an electric two-wheeler in a rainstorm, enabling autonomous robots to operate in wet industrial settings, or ensuring marine equipment functions reliably despite splashes and spray.
Additionally, Tritek’s battery packs are:
- Built with intelligent self-development BMS for safety monitoring and customized options
- Certified with UL2271, EN 50604, ECE R136, etc
- Support dual-battery or multi-battery parallel for range extension
What to Do If a Lithium Battery Gets Wet
If your lithium battery is exposed to water:
- Remove from Water
- Turn off and disconnect it immediately
- Do not charge the battery
- Dry it thoroughly, especially connectors
- Monitor for swelling or unusual heat
- Dispose properly if damage is suspected—do not reuse a battery inoperable or unsafe.
Preventing Water Damage
To protect lithium-ion batteries from water damage:
- Storage: Store batteries in a dry, cool place, ideally in waterproof battery cases or enclosures.
- Usage in Wet Environments: Choose batteries with high IP ratings, like Tritek’s IP67 models, for applications involving water exposure.
- Regular Inspections: Check battery enclosures for wear or damage to ensure water resistance.
- Waterproofing Measures: For non-IP-rated batteries, consider applying silicone or marine-grade sealants to terminals, but consult the manufacturer first.
Regular basic maintenance is essential to prevent water damage and ensure the safety and reliability of your battery.
What Not to Do
- Don’t leave lithium batteries in areas prone to flooding or condensation.
- Don’t try to recharge wet lithium batteries
- Don’t assume it’s safe after air drying
- Don’t puncture, cut, or tamper with a wet battery
- Don’t throw it in the trash—follow proper disposal
Common Myths
All Lithium-ion Batteries Are Waterproof
Only batteries with specific IP ratings, like Tritek’s IP67-certified models, are designed to resist water. Most standard lithium-ion batteries are vulnerable to water damage.
It’s Safe to Recharge a Wet Battery
Recharging a wet battery is dangerous and can cause short circuits or fires. Always ensure the battery is dry and undamaged before recharging.
FAQs
Can Lithium Batteries Be Stored Outside?
While some batteries, like Tritek’s IP67 models, can handle outdoor conditions, prolonged exposure to weather should be avoided. Store in dry, protected environments when possible.
Are All Lithium-ion Batteries the Same for Water Resistance?
No, water resistance depends on the battery’s design and IP rating. Tritek’s IP67-certified batteries offer superior protection compared to non-certified models.
How Salt Water Affects Lithium-Ion Batteries
- Higher conductivity increases short circuit likelihood.
- Salt accelerates corrosion inside the battery casing.
- Residual salt deposits may continue damaging the battery long after it dries.
Conclusion
Water and lithium-ion batteries don’t mix well—unless the battery is designed for it. From short circuits to long-term corrosion, the risks are real. But with IP67-certified solutions like those from Tritek, you can minimize risk and keep performance high.
Looking for waterproof, high-performance lithium battery packs? Don’t settle for ‘water-resistant’ claims. Demand IP67 proof. Tritek has you covered—safely, intelligently, and reliably.
