Scavenging rechargeable lithium cells from the roadside

Big Clive demonstrates how to safely extract and reuse rechargeable lithium-ion batteries from discarded disposable vapes.

While I'm not a huge fan of using lithium cells a single time and then discarding them, I'm fine with a free source of rechargeable cells lying on the ground. These popular disposable inhaler devices are based around the same circuitry as the fully rechargeable ones, simply because it's the cheapest way to make them. I guess some people just want a quick easy fix and these Chinese made devices cater to that market. If you're willing to finger things that people have had in their mouth (Like coffee shop cups and pub glasses) then popping these devices open usually reveals a very useful rechargeable cell with a rating of between 250mAh to 600mAh. Perfect for replacing spent or faulty cells in many devices, noting that the salvaged cells don't have the usual protection PCB for overcharge, discharge and current protection. As long as the device they are used in has charge control on the PCB to limit the charge to 4.2V, then it should be fine. You could also stick a cell to one of the many TP4056 charge controller PCBs if you want the full works. All the cells I've tested have been fully rechargeable, but always proceed with caution when testing this, and never use damaged cells. Also make sure you wear disposable gloves if handling the fluid cartridges in these devices as they are aimed at hard-core smoke inhalers and have a high percentage of knicker-tin. While lithium cells are very common, you have to keep in mind that they are high energy storage devices. It is important to handle them carefully, avoiding short circuits or physical damage, as they can release a lot of energy very quickly. It's also very important not to charge standard lithium rechargeable cells above 4.2V, so always use suitable charging circuitry. If you want to go the full hog and reuse a complete device then the geek-bar one was the nicest and most reusable design for the technically inclined. If a cell has reached the end of its useful life and needs recycled, then discharging it fully will make it much safer to recycle. If you enjoy these videos you can help support the channel with a dollar for coffee, cookies and random gadgets for disassembly at:- bigclive.com/coffee.htm This also keeps the channel independent of YouTube's advertising algorithms allowing it to be a bit more dangerous and naughty. #ElectronicsCreators