What are Lithium-ion batteries?
Lithium-ion batteries are a type of rechargeable battery that can be used to power a range of everyday devices that include laptops, phones and more recently e-bike/e-scooters, cars.
To create power the Lithium-ions move from the negative electrode through an electrolyte to the positive electrode. They are a very popular battery as they have several advantages that include longer battery-life, light in weight, and no memory effect. Although their obvious advantages they have a few disadvantages that include sensitivity to high temperatures, failure of a battery can result in fire, and of course possible malfunctioning.
Dangerous Lithium-ion batteries have been a growing concern in the fire safety industry due to their potential to overheat and ignite, particularly when used in e-bikes and e-scooters that are often charged for prolonged periods of time.
The British Safety Council shared that the number of fires linked to Lithium-ion batteries in the UK increased by 46% in 2023, compared to the previous year. Specifically the batteries that power electric modes of transport such as e-bikes, e-scooters and electric cars were responsible for almost three fires a day across the UK in 2023 alone.
It is highly urged that devices that contain Lithium-ion batteries should comply with UK safety standards and that you should be cautious of cheap or unbranded products sold online especially listings that don’t have reviews. The FIA has been raising awareness about the fire risks linked to Lithium-Ion batteries and encourages individuals to stay well informed about the fire safety regulations when it comes to rechargeable Lithium-ion batteries.
Understanding Lithium-ion Battery Fires
When Lithium-ion batteries fail or are exposed to harsh environments they can overheat and cause fires, these fires can be dangerous because they can burn intensely and can be challenging to extinguish. There are two types of battery fires, and these include small and large. Small battery fires are common in household devices such as phones and laptops and are less severe in comparison to Large battery fires that can be found in electric vehicles and are more hazardous and require more effort to put out.
Methods to effectively extinguish Lithium-ion Battery fires
The Fire Protection Association recommends that only trained personnel/emergency responders should attempt to extinguish Lithium-ion batteries at early stage when it is safe to do so. Lithium-ion battery fires create their own oxygen during thermal runaway – therefore are difficult for fire and rescue services to deal with.
For small lithium-ion battery fires, specialist fire extinguishers now exist, that can be directly sprayed on to the battery cells, to provide both cooling and oxygen depletion, with the aim to control fire and reduce temperature to below the level where there is sufficient heat to re-ignite the fire. Smothering systems such as constructed fire blankets and specially formulated fire suppression granules, are now available to help control lithium-ion battery fires.
In the case of fires involving large Lithium-ion batteries, Lithium-ion battery fires are normally only controlled and extinguished when the fire and rescue service deliver a large amount of water to the burning materials for a significant amount of time.
Preventative methods for Lithium-ion Batteries
There are several preventative measures for Lithium-ion batteries to prevent dangers these include:
- Buying from reputable manufacturers
- Ensure batteries are certified
- Avoid extreme temperatures
- Handle batteries with care to prevent physical damage
- Regularly check battery health
- Use correct chargers to charge the battery
- Do not store with flammable materials
- Charge in a safe area away from flammable materials and avoid charging overnight or when unattended
- Install Hispec Fire Detection for rapid alerts to any fire
By following the methods discussed above and implementing preventive measures, you can minimise the risks and handle fires safely.