How To Ensure Your CBD Vape Pen Is Safe

2019 was an annus horribilis for the vaping industry in general, and CBD vape pens were not spared. It was the year that the vaping epidemic began, and claimed the lives of at least 60 people. The sickness mainly impacted users of THC. It also seems as if a chemical called vitamin E acetate was one of the chief reasons for deaths and injuries, though this has not been confirmed.

It was also a year when we heard horrifying reports about exploding vape pens. One teenager experienced a shattered jaw when an e-cigarette exploded in his mouth. An exploding e-cigarette was blamed for the death of a man in Texas. One YouTube video shows a vape pen exploding in a man’s pants.

In reality, the number of incidents was minuscule relative to the number of devices on the market. Even so, the FDA saw fit to release a statement with the following recommendations to prevent explosions:

• Purchase vaporizers with safety features such as firing button locks and protection against overcharging.
• Keep loose batteries in a case to avoid contact with metal objects.
• Don’t charge your pen overnight.
• Never charge with a phone or tablet charger.
• Replace any batteries that get wet or damaged.

But My CBD Vape Pen Is Safe, Right?

There is an incredibly small chance that CBD vape pens you buy from reputable brands will explode or otherwise suffer dramatic damage. The FDA says that explosions occur when the lithium-ion battery inside a vape pen overheats. 

As reports of exploding batteries surfaced, a form of hysteria began. The suggestion was that lithium-ion batteries are unsafe for use in CBD vape pens. In reality, the odds of suffering this bizarre situation are extraordinarily high. 

Back in 2016, Professor K.M. Abraham of Northeastern University said that the chances of a lithium-ion battery failing were slightly below 1 in 1,000,000. In contrast, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration claims you have a 1 in 13,000 chance of being hit by lightning during your lifetime.

Why Do Li-Ion Batteries Fail?

Typically, an exploding lithium-ion battery is down to a manufacturing fault. This form of battery contains a significant amount of energy in a tiny package. Its energy density is 160-watt hours per kilogram (Wh/kg). This figure is double that of NiCad rechargeable batteries or fresh alkaline batteries.

Lithium-ion batteries use three components to produce its power:

• The positively charged cathode, made from metal oxide.
• The negatively charged anode, made from graphite.
• The liquid electrolyte. This is a solvent that contains lithium salts and helps the electric charge to flow between the two poles.

The anode and cathode must remain separated at all times. In lithium-ion batteries, this is achieved through the use of a porous polyethylene separator. It is extremely thin; some separators are just 10 microns thick. As batteries get stronger, the tiny piece of plastic is stretched to its maximum. 

A short circuit occurs when the separator is breached. It begins the ‘thermal runaway’ process, which causes the chemicals in the battery to heat up. Eventually, the battery can reach a temperature of 1,000 degrees Fahrenheit. If the electrolyte is exposed to oxygen in the air, it can ignite or explode.

How Can I Stop This from Happening to My CBD Vape Pen?

The most obvious answer is to choose a reputable CBD vape pen supplier. This ensures that you don’t have to worry about shoddy processes. The single biggest reason for exploding batteries is defective manufacturing. Before you begin vaping, check to see that your CBD vape pen’s battery is in good condition. If you know that it is peeling on the outside, replace the battery immediately. 

It is also important to check for dents or holes. Leaking batteries are exceedingly dangerous, and you should dispose of them immediately.

Make sure you store your CBD vape pen battery out of direct sunlight. Ideally, you will have a handy plastic case which you can use. It is also essential to remember that the batteries of CBD vape pens can experience issues if they come into contact with other metals.

Keep an eye on your vaporizer when it is charging. Too many people forget about their CBD vape pen and allow it to continue charging for hours after it is at 100%. A prime example is letting it charge overnight. Also, make sure you ONLY use a specific charger for your device. Don’t use your Smartphone or Tablet charger.

If you would rather avoid fiddling around with lithium-ion batteries, you can always choose disposable CBD vape pens. You will find high-quality devices at PureKana. There are four flavor options to choose from, and at least 200mg of CBD per unit.