Battery Phone Cases Sold on Amazon Recalled for Risk of Burn Injuries
Battery Phone Cases Sold on Amazon Recalled for Risk of Burn Injuries
Thousands of Trianium battery phone cases sold on Amazon were recalled after 10 people reported that they suffered burn injuries when the battery in the case overheated. According to an alert posted on the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission’s (CPSC) website, Endliss Technology Inc. has recalled about 367,000 battery phone cases because the lithium-ion batteries in the cases can overheat.
Details of the Recall
Endliss said it has received 96 reports of the batteries overheating because of the thermal runway, including 10 people who suffered burns because of these products. The recalled phone cases, which were made in China, contain a lithium-ion battery that is advertised to extend the battery life of the phone inside the case. The recall involves Endliss Technology Trianium battery phone cases for all types of cell phones. The word “Trianium” is printed on the back of the case.
The cases were sold in white, black, pink and gray colors. The phone cases were sold exclusively online at Amazon.com between September 2014 and July 2020 for between $30 and $100. CPSC is urging consumers to stop using the recalled phone cases immediately, dispose of them in accordance with local laws on battery disposal, and contact Endliss for a free replacement power pack.
Why Lithium Ion Batteries are Dangerous
A majority of the devices we use contain lithium-ion batteries, which can be particularly dangerous when they contain manufacturing defects or are made with cheap or substandard parts. In the case of these phone cases, what occurred appears to be a process known as “thermal runaway,” where an unstoppable chain reaction occurs increasing the temperature within milliseconds.
The energy stored in the battery is suddenly released creating temperatures of around 750 degrees Fahrenheit. The battery becomes gaseous and a fire erupts. A thermal runaway of a lithium-ion battery could occur because of an internal or external short circuit, overcharging the battery or excessive currents when charging or discharging the battery.
Product Liability Issues
If you or a loved one has been injured as a result of these or other products, you may be able to seek compensation for the damages including medical expenses, lost income, hospitalization, cost of surgeries, rehabilitation, pain and suffering and emotional distress. An experienced product defect lawyer will be able to advise you regarding your legal rights and options.
