Standards and regulations for batteries and cells
Batteries and cells are subject to a range of technical standards and regulatory requirements. Depending on the technology – lithium-ion, lithium metal, sodium-ion, or other systems – different requirements apply to transport, product safety, and market access. The following overview categorizes the most relevant regulatory frameworks by their scope of application.
What standards and regulations cover
Standards and regulations define mandatory or recommended requirements for products, test procedures, and processes. In the field of batteries and cells, they determine which tests a product must pass, under which conditions it may be transported, and which prerequisites apply for market access.
Individual regulatory frameworks differ in their scope, legal binding force, and focus. Some apply worldwide, others regionally. Some are legally mandated, others recognized on an industry-specific basis. The scope also varies by battery technology – for example, recent regulatory frameworks such as ADR 2025 cover sodium-ion systems in addition to lithium-ion and lithium metal batteries.
Regulatory requirements for the shipment of batteries and cells
The transport of batteries and cells is regulated internationally. Prior to shipment – whether by air, sea, or road – they must be demonstrably safe. The requirements apply to lithium-ion, lithium metal, and, since ADR 2025, sodium-ion batteries. The following standards define the testing requirements and classification criteria.
Safety standards for batteries and cells at product level
Safety standards define test procedures at product and component level. They specify which mechanical, electrical, and thermal tests a battery or cell must pass before it may be placed on the market. Different standards apply depending on the target market and product category.
Regulatory requirements for the european market
In addition to technical testing standards, overarching regulatory frameworks apply to the placing of batteries on the market. These do not address individual test procedures but cover the entire product lifecycle – from manufacturing through labeling to disposal.
Performance criteria for batteries and cells
Performance and quality standards define test procedures for assessing the operating behaviour of batteries and cells — such as capacity, cycle life and internal resistance. Unlike safety standards, which evaluate behaviour under abusive conditions, they assess suitability for intended use and serve as a basis for comparison between manufacturers.
