If I recall correctly, Apple had the same problem a couple years ago
with Sony batteries, though I believe that Apple's issue was identified
and corrected quickly. I don't know what the specific defect was with
the batteries that caused them to "explode," but this story is only
significant because of the magnitude of the problem.
Apple has a current recall on iBook batteries. It has been effect for
most of this year. Check out their website.
www.apple.com