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Environmental Health and Safety

Batteries (Including Lithium-Ion)

Federal definition: A “battery” is a device consisting of one or more electrically connected electrochemical cells which is designed to receive, store, and deliver electric energy. An electrochemical cell is a system consisting of an anode, cathode, and an electrolyte, plus such connections (electrical and mechanical) as may be needed to allow the cell to deliver or receive electrical energy. The term battery also includes an intact, unbroken battery from which the electrolyte has been removed. EPA website.
 
Common regulated types of batteries include Lithium-ion, nickel-cadmium (Ni-Cd), small, sealed lead-acid, mercury-oxide, and silver-oxide. Alkaline batteries (AAA, AA, C, D, 9V, etc.) are not hazardous and do not qualify as universal waste. However, although there is no EPA requirement to recycle alkaline batteries, the University has chosen to adopt a recycling program to keep these batteries out of the landfill. Battery collection containers are located throughout ISU facilities. Please see the Campus Green Map for battery collection areas. Once containers begin to fill, Recycling personnel collect and transport them to the designated Universal Waste Storage Area. 

Hazards of batteries include risk of fire, explosion, or release of toxic heavy metals—especially with damaged batteries. 

Labels: Universal waste battery labels must include the following: 

  • “Universal Waste – Batteries”
  • The date of the first battery added to the container 

Storage:   

  • Store in closed containers that prevent breakage (e.g., fiberboard boxes, plastic drums).
  • Containers must be labeled and kept upright.
  • Must be clearly dated when the first battery is added.
  • Waste batteries cannot be accumulated for more than one year.  

Tape terminal coverage: All batteries should have both anode and cathode terminals covered with clear tape to prevent short-circuiting and fires.

Handling damaged units: Treat bulging or damaged lithium-ion batteries with special caution; place in vermiculite or use fire-safe containers. Consult with EHS or Recycling Services. 
 
What NOT to do:

Do not toss batteries in the trash or recycling bin. 

  • Many batteries contain heavy metals or flammable components that pose environmental and fire hazards.

Do not leave battery terminals exposed.

  • Always tape both ends with clear tape (anode and cathode) to prevent short circuits, sparks, or fires.

Do not store damaged or swollen batteries with regular batteries. 

  • Damaged batteries should be isolated and placed in a fireproof or sand-filled container. 

Do not store batteries in metal containers. 

  • Metal containers can cause short circuits if batteries shift or touch. 

Do not store near heat sources or in direct sunlight. 

  • This increases the risk of thermal runaway or fire. 

Spill Response: 

  • Wear PPE: chemical-resistant gloves and goggles.
  • Add clear tape to anode and cathode if possible.
  • Neutralize leaks: For alkaline battery leaks (white crusty residue), neutralize with vinegar or lemon juice. For acidic battery leaks (e.g., lead-acid), neutralize with baking soda and water.
  • Absorb and contain liquids using absorbent pads or materials.
  • Place battery and cleanup materials in a sealable, labeled container. 

Damaged Defective or Recalled (DDR) Batteries 

  • Include alkaline, nicad and others 

Lithium ion and lithium metal batteries  

  • Do not touch if it’s smoking, bulging, or hot.
  • Call Environmental Health & Safety (EHS)  
  • If safe to handle: Place battery in non-flammable material (e.g., sand or vermiculite) inside a metal or plastic container.
  • Keep away from flammable items.
  • For DDR lithium battery disposal, contact Environmental Health and Safety or recycling to request a pickup. DDR batteries can also be dropped off at Tech-zone in the Bone Student Center or administration building 1 during normal business hours. 

Storage & Labeling Requirements (EPA): 

  • Batteries must be clearly labeled as "Universal Waste Batteries" with the accumulation start date.
  • We are allowed to store batteries for up to one year from the accumulation start date before shipment is required.
  • If storage exceeds one year, we must prove the extension is necessary to facilitate proper recycling or disposal.