National Fireproofing Explains Extinguishing Lithium Battery Fires

Gain an understanding of the potential dangers associated with lithium battery fires, safeguards for avoiding a fire, and strategies for extinguishing lithium battery fires.

Given the ubiquity of lithium-ion batteries in many modern electronics, knowledge of the proper steps to take in the event of a fire is essential.

Lithium Batteries ignition cause

Thermal instability known as thermal runaway can occur if a lithium battery overheats. This occurs when gaseous material is released from the lithium-ion cells.

A single cell’s failure can set off a chain reaction among the other cells, which may take place in a matter of milliseconds to hours. In addition, the heat generated by the reaction may be enough to ignite a fire. 

Fires of lithium batteries can be caused by the following:

• Shorting out: Improper storage, harm, and metal residue from the production process can lead to short circuits and combustion.
• Extreme temperatures: Heat on loading docks, cargo holds, and tarmacs can cause overheating or fire.
• Rough treatment: Dropping a battery or shaking it excessively while transporting or using it can initiate thermal runaway.
• Physical harm: Explosions may occur due to shredding or disassembling a battery during recycling operations.
• Wet/humid environment: Even without prior damage to the battery, rainwater, salty air, and humidity might bring about short circuits and activate thermal runaway.

EV fires and lithium-ion batteries

When it comes to firefighting, incidents involving EV fires and lithium-ion batteries present unique challenges

According to predictions from the NFPA, the United States is expected to see a significant increase in the number of electric vehicles (EVs) over the next decade.

It is estimated that there will be more than 25 million EVs on the road, which is over eight times the current amount. Currently, a large portion of EVs are powered by lithium-ion batteries.

When it comes to firefighting, incidents involving EV fires and lithium-ion batteries present unique challenges for responders. To help individuals adapt to an environment with an increasing number of alternative fuel vehicles, NFPA provides online training courses for first responders, charging station installers, and members of the public.

Strategies To Extinguish a Lithium Battery Fire

Depending on the size and type of lithium battery, there are multiple strategies for putting out a fire caused by one. Lithium-metal battery fires can be extinguished via Class D fire extinguishers.

On the other hand, Class B fires, in which flammable liquids are present, can be handled by standard dry chemicals or ABC extinguishers. To counter the liquid electrolytes in the batteries that create conductive pathways, lithium battery fire extinguishers can be employed.

Foam extinguisher

If the fire cannot be put out, allow it to burn itself out in a managed fashion

For small lithium batteries, a bit of water will suffice; however, larger lithium-ion battery fires require a foam extinguisher with substances such as CO2, powder graphite, ABC dry chemical, or sodium carbonate.

When battery packs are aflame, the cells may not all burn at the same rate. To ensure it is completely extinguished, it is best to put it in an area that is sheltered from the elements. If the fire cannot be put out, allow it to burn itself out in a managed fashion. To contain the fire, douse the area around it with water.

Strategies to Avert a Lithium Battery Blaze

It is essential to be aware of the warning signals of a lithium battery that is not working correctly to stop a fire from happening. Any abnormal heating, sound, smoke, smell, or expansion are all indications that the battery is malfunctioning.

To prevent lithium battery fires, here are some tips to keep in mind:

• It’s important to get batteries from reliable sources.
• Never try to recharge batteries that aren’t designed for recharging.
• After the charging process has finished, it is vital to disconnect the battery from the charger.
• Use the charger that came with the battery, or one that is approved by the manufacturer.
• Keep the batteries away from temperatures that are too hot or cold.
• If a user can, charge the batteries in a fire-safe bag.
• Inspect the batteries after a user first puts them in and after they recharge them. If they look damaged, don’t try to recharge them.
• Before placing items in storage, remove any lithium-ion batteries.

In the case that a charging device gets too hot, it is imperative to disconnect it from the power source and store it separately from any materials that may catch fire until its temperature decreases. If needed, the battery should be changed and the fire department should be contacted.