What occurs if there is damage to lithium batteries before flying an sUAS?

When lithium batteries sustain damage, they can pose a significant safety risk, notably the potential to self-ignite. This occurs because damaged batteries may experience a short circuit, leading to internal temperature increases. If the heat generated surpasses the thermal limits of the battery's components, it can result in thermal runaway, which causes the battery to release flammable gases and potentially catch fire. This risk is particularly heightened with lithium batteries due to their chemical properties.

While there may be instances where a damaged battery could still function at reduced capacity or require recharging, these situations do not encapsulate the severe safety implications that come with battery damage. Reusing a damaged battery without proper inspection and testing can lead to catastrophic failures, including self-ignition. Therefore, understanding this risk is crucial for ensuring safety when operating sUAS.