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Why can high temperatures cause batteries to fail early?

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Cross-section diagram of an alkaline-manganese dioxide battery showing labeled internal components, including the steel-plated covers, cathode, anode gel, current collector, separator, steel can, and brass rivet. — battery Cutaway view of an alkaline–manganese dioxide power cell.

High temperatures can cause batteries to fail early because they accelerate the degradation of internal components. When a battery is exposed to excessive heat, its internal chemicals may evaporate or react spontaneously with one another, leading to premature failure.1

In the specific case of lithium batteries, high temperatures are particularly hazardous. The heat generated during discharge or recharge can cause the cell temperature to rise to a critical point where the battery's ingredients combine spontaneously. This can result in a dangerous phenomenon known as "thermal runaway," which may cause the cell to smoke or catch fire.2

While raising the temperature of a battery can technically allow for a faster discharge rate, it is generally not advisable due to these risks of chemical instability and permanent damage.1