Preventing Lithium Ion Battery Fires
School Name
Center For Advanced Technical Studies
Grade Level
11th Grade
Presentation Topic
Physics
Presentation Type
Non-Mentored
Abstract
There are over one million electric vehicles on the roads in the US. The batteries used can be a major fire hazard. Electric vehicle fires can exceed 5,000 F, and applying water or foam may cause a violent flare-up as the water molecules separate into explosive hydrogen and oxygen gases. First responders face dangers such as electrical shock (up to 400 volts), extremely high temperatures, Toxic fumes, Lithium burns (respiratory and skin reactions), Toxic runoff, and reignition up to 24 hours after initial extinguishment. The purpose of our project is to prevent Lithium Ion battery fires. In order to do this, our goal is to develop a protectant to isolate individual battery cells to prevent excess heat from spreading. To test this, we will puncture batteries in a controlled situation. In order to test, we will create a custom puncturing device that will be triggered remotely. The battery cells will be placed in a metal container, and then coated in a fire retardant material. Safety will be our priority. We will have a fire extinguisher at hand, and film the testing from afar as well.
Recommended Citation
Timmons, Zachary; Vreyens, Stephen; and Parker, Hayden, "Preventing Lithium Ion Battery Fires" (2020). South Carolina Junior Academy of Science. 257.
https://scholarexchange.furman.edu/scjas/2020/all/257
Location
Furman Hall 127
Start Date
3-28-2020 11:15 AM
Presentation Format
Oral Only
Group Project
Yes
Preventing Lithium Ion Battery Fires
Furman Hall 127
There are over one million electric vehicles on the roads in the US. The batteries used can be a major fire hazard. Electric vehicle fires can exceed 5,000 F, and applying water or foam may cause a violent flare-up as the water molecules separate into explosive hydrogen and oxygen gases. First responders face dangers such as electrical shock (up to 400 volts), extremely high temperatures, Toxic fumes, Lithium burns (respiratory and skin reactions), Toxic runoff, and reignition up to 24 hours after initial extinguishment. The purpose of our project is to prevent Lithium Ion battery fires. In order to do this, our goal is to develop a protectant to isolate individual battery cells to prevent excess heat from spreading. To test this, we will puncture batteries in a controlled situation. In order to test, we will create a custom puncturing device that will be triggered remotely. The battery cells will be placed in a metal container, and then coated in a fire retardant material. Safety will be our priority. We will have a fire extinguisher at hand, and film the testing from afar as well.
