Lithium - Ion Battery

Lithium - ion batteries are becoming more common in diving equipment, especially in U/W lights.

They pack a large amount of energy in a small volume and consequently are potentially dangerous.

The following video will raise your respect for these batteries; particularly in a flooded situation!

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http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/nova/tech/super-battery.html

Any battery above a standard "household" size can be hazardous if damaged or used improperly - I think a lot of people need to take that kind of thing more seriously.

Thanks for sharing !

How are these delt with on air planes or in checked baggage?

You're usually not allowed to have Lithium Ion batteries inside of checked in luggage. You need to put them into the bring aboard luggage and they need to be packed in a way that they can not be short circuit. Which means they also usually need to be outside of the device they are used for (if possible) or the device needs to be protected from turning itself on by accident. Most airlines also limit the amount of extra batteries that you're allowed to bring aboard.

You're usually not allowed to have Lithium Ion batteries inside of checked in luggage. You need to put them into the bring aboard luggage and they need to be packed in a way that they can not be short circuit. Which means they also usually need to be outside of the device they are used for (if possible) or the device needs to be protected from turning itself on by accident. Most airlines also limit the amount of extra batteries that you're allowed to bring aboard.

The FAA/TSA rules for the US allow Li-Ion batteries that are installed in devices to be in checked luggage. It is loose batteries that must be hand-carried. See:https://www.faa.gov/about/office_org/headquarters_offices/ash/ash_programs/hazmat/passenger_info/media/Airline_passengers_and_batteries.pdf

Q2. What kinds of batteries does the FAA allow in checked baggage (including gate-checked bags)?

A2. Except for spare (uninstalled) lithium metal and lithium-ion batteries, all the batteries allowed in carry-on baggage are also allowed in checked baggage. The batteries must be protected from damage and short circuit or installed in a device. Battery-powered devices—particularly those with moving parts or those that could heat up—must be protected from accidental activation. Spare lithium metal and lithium ion/polymer batteries are prohibited in checked baggage—this includes external battery packs. Electronic cigarettes and vaporizers are also prohibited in checked baggage. “Checked baggage” includes bags checked at the gate or planeside.

Sobering, especially given implications to air safety. Thank you for sharing.