SMOLDERING THREAT: ARE LITHIUM-ION BATTERIES A REAL DANGER TO PEOPLE AND PROPERTY?

IN THE ERA OF DIGITAL INNOVATION AND MOBILITY, LITHIUM-ION BATTERIES ARE THE BEATING HEART OF THE INDUSTRY AND EVERYDAY DEVICES SUCH AS PHONES, LAPTOPS, ELECTRIC BICYCLES, AND SCOOTERS. HOWEVER, DOES THIS HEART PUMP EXCESSIVELY “HOT” BLOOD AT A TIME WHEN FIRES ASSOCIATED WITH THESE DEVICES ARE BECOMING MORE COMMON, AND WHAT IS THE INDUSTRY’S RESPONSE TO THE NEED FOR GETTING THE BEST OF BOTH WORLDS IN TERMS OF ENERGY AND SAFETY?

n By: Mirza Bahić editorial@asmideast.com

Lithium-ion batteries are often revered today as the “engines of the 21st century.” As an important energy storage solution for portable electronic devices and electric vehicles, these devices are a “Promethean” fire for a world that constantly seeks increased mobility, digitalization, connectivity, and sustainability in one package. However, with the widespread use of these devices, there has also come an increased and statistically well-supported danger of fires breaking out in situations that are still unfamiliar to many.

Is the “Flaw” Inherent in the Battery Design Itself?

At its core, lithium-ion batteries consist of multiple smaller cells, each containing two electrodes separated by a separator. These cells facilitate the movement of charged particles, known as lithium ions (hence the name), through a conductive solution between the electrodes. This process involves charging and discharging, allowing the battery to store and release energy, powering a wide range of mobile devices from laptops to electric vehicles. When a lithium-ion battery is being charged, lithium ions migrate from the positive electrode (cathode) through the conductive electrolyte and move toward the negative electrode (anode), where they are stored. During discharge, the process is reversed, with lithium ions returning to the positive electrode, creating an electric current that powers the device.

The choice of lithium as the primary element in batteries is due to its lightweight nature and high energy density associated with it. Compared to traditional batteries like nickel-cadmium or lead-acid, lithium-ion batteries offer significantly greater energy storage capacity, making them ideal for portable devices requiring long-lasting power.

So, the answer to the question in the title is straightforward: lithium-ion batteries are not inherently unsafe by design. If they are manufactured and used according to industry standards, they are generally considered safe devices. However, it’s important to note that there are inherent risks associated with the operation of lithium-ion batteries, which can be attributed to various factors such as

Lithium-ion batteries are not inherently unsafe by design

Unquenchable Thirst and Prolonged Interventions

Another important issue related to extinguishing fires on vehicles with lithium-ion batteries involves the availability of abnormally large amounts of water and the length of interventions that “trap” personnel in the field longer than usual. Experts point out that in some cases, extinguishing a fire on an electric vehicle may require as much as 110,000 liters of water. This amount may vary, but many fire departments are already unable to rely on using the same amount of water for interventions on electric vehicles as they would for typical building fires.

temperature changes, physical damage, overcharging, manufacturing defects, or improper use.

Why Do Lithium-Ion Batteries Pose a Security Risk?

Lithium-ion batteries have quenched the world’s perpetual thirst for portable energy, allowing us to stay connected across the clock, work efficiently, and push new boundaries in transportation. However, along with all the undeniable advantages, these devices also carry concrete safety risks, primarily related to fire outbreaks in fully unexpected situations.

But if we have established that these devices are not inherently unsafe, why are reports of fatal fires and significant material damage spreading through the media like wildfire today? The reason is simple and relates to the law of large numbersthese devices are more popular than ever today, and their rapid adoption has not been accompanied by an equally diligent campaign to raise awareness about their proper handling and incident management.

First and foremost, when lithium-ion batteries become defective or sustain damage, they can pose a significantly greater danger of fire and explosions. Several factors can contribute to battery failure, including improper use and storage or incorrect charging techniques. Physical impacts such as dropping, crushing, or puncturing the battery can