IMDG Code 39-18 published in 2018 may be used partly or wholly during 2019 and will become mandatory from 1st January 2020

Amendments for carriage of Hybrid Lithium Batteries

New subparagraphs 6 & 7 added to section 2.9.4 for hybrid Lithium batteries containing both Lithium-metal and Lithium-ion cells

Lithium ion cells can only be charged from the primary lithium metal cells;

Design must preclude overcharging of the rechargeable lithium ion cells;

Battery must be tested as a lithium primary battery;

Component cells of the battery must be of a type proved to meet the respective testing requirements of the Manual of Tests and Criteria, part III, subsection 38.3

Test report according to the Manual of Tests and Criteria, Part III, subsection 38.3, paragraph 38.3.5. must be made available by manufacturers and subsequent distributors of cells or batteries.

New special provision 387 is assigned to existing entries UN 3090,
UN 3091, UN 3480 & UN 3481

Lithium batteries in conformity with 2.9.4.6 containing both primary lithium metal cells and rechargeable lithium ion cells shall be assigned to UN 3090 or 3091 as appropriate. When such batteries are transported in accordance with special provision 188, the total lithium content of all lithium metal cells contained in the battery shall not exceed 1.5 g and the total capacity of all lithium ion cells contained in the battery shall not exceed 10 Wh

SP 387, IMDG Code 2018 Edition

Transporting under Class 9

Hybrid Lithium batteries containing both Lithium-metal and Lithium-ion cells must be assigned to UN 3090 or 3091 as appropriate.

Transporting under Special Provision 188

For transporting under special provision 188 the total lithium content of all lithium metal cells combined in the battery must not exceed 1.5g and total capacity of all lithium ion cells contained in the battery must not exceed 10Wh.