Chapter 2. Important safety information
The Güralp Portable Power Module (PPM) contains lithium-ion (Li-ion) cells which have an extremely high energy-density. These cells contain a variety of hazardous chemicals. Improper handling and/or disposal can create significant risks, including fire, injury and death.
Studies have shown that physical damage (such as crushing, puncturing or bending), electrical abuse (such as short-circuiting or over-charging), and exposure to elevated temperature can cause a thermal runaway i.e. rapid self-heating from an exothermic chemical reaction. This can, in turn, cause thermal runaway in adjacent cells resulting in a significant risk of fire and release of extremely toxic fumes. This reaction is self-sustaining and does not require oxygen, so it is very difficult to extinguish.
The Güralp PPM contains protection circuitry to mitigate the risks of over-charging and short circuits. It is nevertheless essential that the following warnings are observed at all times.
Never puncture, crush or burn a PPM in any condition.
Do not discard or dispose of an intact or damaged PPM with regular waste. Consult local regulations for disposal procedures.
Never attempt to open a PPM. There are no user-serviceable parts inside.
A physically damaged or over-heated PPM presents a significant risk of fire and must be moved immediately to a safe outdoor location. Consult local regulations and/or authorities for further instructions.
Disconnect the PPM immediately and seek advice if, during operation or charging, it emits any unusual smell, becomes hot, changes shape/geometry or behaves abnormally.
Never expose the PPM to strong oxidisers, strong acids or conductive fluids, such as sea-water.
Store the PPM at a temperature between 5°C and 20°C (41°F and 68°F). Do not store next to flammable material.
If the PPM is to be stored for an extended period, charge it to 50% of its maximum capacity before storage and every six months thereafter.