Key concepts in lithium-ion battery principles

Lithium-ion battery

A lithium-ion battery is a rechargeable battery known for its high energy density, making it lightweight and capable of storing a substantial amount of energy. It features the following few key parts:

Cathode: This is the positive electrode. It’s made of special materials that store lithium-ions.

Anode: This is the negative electrode and is usually made of a carbon-based substance, like graphite.

Electrolyte: This is best described as the battery’s bloodstream. It’s a liquid or gel that assists lithium-ions to move between the cathode and anode. It’s important to note that this liquid or gel is flammable.

Separator: Think of this as the battery’s security guard. It keeps the cathode and anode apart to prevent short circuits. It also allows the movement of ions, which generates the electrical potential but blocks the electrons.

Current collectors: These are like the wires in the battery, helping the electricity flow in and out.

State of charge: This indicates the percentage at which the battery is charged. The higher the charge, the bigger the potential for fire risk.

Battery management system (BMS)

A BMS is an electronic system that monitors and manages various aspects of a lithium-ion battery’s performance and safety. It is crucial in protecting batteries from over-charging, over-discharging and other potentially harmful conditions. BMS is commonly used in electric vehicles and renewable energy storage systems.

Cycle life

Cycle life refers to the number of charge and discharge cycles a lithiumion battery can undergo before its capacity and performance start to degrade significantly. It is essential to consider cycle life when evaluating a battery’s long-term durability and costeffectiveness, particularly in applications with frequent charging and discharging.

Thermal runaway

One of the most significant concerns associated with lithium-ion batteries is a phenomenon known as thermal runaway. Thermal runaway occurs when a lithium-ion cell enters a state of uncontrollable self-heating. This situation can lead to exceptionally high temperatures, the forceful release of gases from the cell and the potential for smoke and fire to erupt. If a cell goes into a thermal runaway, it runs the risk of setting the other cells into a thermal runaway.

Aqueous vermiculite dispersion (AVD)

AVD is a fire-suppression technology used in lithium-ion battery fire extinguishers. It consists of a waterbased solution containing vermiculite, a naturally occurring mineral. AVD is designed to rapidly cool and suppress lithium-ion battery fires, making it an effective tool for mitigating fire hazards associated with batteries.

Fire suppression

Fire suppression refers to the techniques and technologies used to control and extinguish fires. In the context of lithium-ion batteries, Lith-Ex Fire Extinguishers are designed to provide peace of mind. Compact and powerful, Lith-Ex Fire Extinguishers are a must-have for every space. With this state-of-the-art technology, you can be confident that you’re prepared for any lithium-ion battery fire emergency.

SafeQuip remains dedicated to elevating fire safety standards in South Africa and worldwide, ensuring the effective mitigation of lithium-ion battery fire risks. For more information about the company and its products, visit: www.safequip.co.za