Samsung’s massive global recall of its Galaxy Note 7 smartphone has once again focused attention on the hazards of lithium ion batteries—specifically, the hazards of lithium ion batteries exploding. Samsung first announced the recall on Sept. 2, and just a week later it took the extraordinary step of asking customers to immediately power down the phones and exchange them for replacements. The Federal Aviation Administration issued a strong advisory asking passengers not to use the Note 7 or even stow it in checked baggage. Airlines around the world hastened to ban in-flight use and charging of the device. Lithium rechargeable batteries are ubiquitous and, thankfully, the vast majority work...
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