Lithium batteries' explosion risk higher than thought

[WASHINGTON] New research shows that lithium batteries can explode and burn even more violently than previously thought, raising questions about their use and shipment on passenger airplanes.

Because many airlines are replacing paper charts with laptops and tablet computers, the Federal Aviation Administration conducted tests on what would happen if one of their rechargeable lithium-ion battery cells ignited. In one test, the cockpit filled with smoke thick enough to obscure instruments and vision out the window for about five minutes.

The FAA's findings, posted on the agency's website, raise an even bigger issue beyond laptops as makers of the battery cells commonly ship the products in bulk in the cargo areas of passenger airplanes. One test found the batteries may blow up, which may render airplane fire-suppression systems ineffective.