Lithium-Ion battery fires

Why Do Lithium-Ion Batteries Catch Fire and How Can We Prevent It?

Lithium-ion batteries power most of our modern gadgets and tech, from phones and laptops to electric vehicles (EVs) and large energy storage systems. While fires caused by these batteries are still relatively rare, they pose serious risks due to the intense flames and toxic gases they can release in a failure event. Understanding how they work and why they catch fire is key to safe use.

How Lithium-Ion Batteries Work and What Causes Fires

Inside each battery cell, lithium ions move between an anode and a cathode through an electrolyte solution, generating the energy that powers devices. This energy-dense, flammable setup can malfunction if exposed to high temperatures, physical damage, or overcharging. When a battery cell overheats and cannot dissipate the heat, it can enter thermal runaway, a chain reaction that releases more heat, igniting flammable gases and sometimes causing explosions.

Triggers for thermal runaway include manufacturing defects, mechanical damage (like piercing or crushing), overheating, and overcharging.

Once ignited, lithium-ion battery fires are self-sustaining due to the oxygen generated, making them difficult to control without the right equipment and extremely dangerous.

Tips for Minimizing Risk

To reduce the risk of lithium-ion battery fires:

– Use Reputable Brands: Always purchase batteries and devices from trustworthy manufacturers and investigate the battery chemistry.

– Handle with Care: Protect batteries from physical damage; dispose of any that show signs of swelling, leaking, or overheating.

– Charge Safely: Use original chargers, avoid overcharging, and disconnect batteries once fully charged.

– Avoid Heat Exposure: Keep devices and batteries out of direct sunlight, hot vehicles, and extreme temperatures.

– Store Properly: Store batteries in a cool, dry place away from flammable materials, and avoid clustering multiple batteries together.

The FISACON RAMBSS systems can simplify these guidelines and maximise your safety by storing and charging your lithium batteries in the only certified storage solution on the market today.  The constant monitoring and automated protection ensure that both you and your lithium batteries are always as safe as possible.