EV Lithium-Ion battery fires: Evolving challenges & mitigation Tools
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The fire service continues to grapple with the complexities of lithium-ion (li-ion) battery fires, especially as electric vehicles (EVs) become more widespread. These fires pose unique risks—thermal runaway, toxic gas release, battery ejection, and reignition—that make them difficult to manage with a one-size-fits-all solution.
Firehouse.com offers a comprehensive article discussing the latest developments.
Photo Credit: The Euro Rescue app provides instructions for mitigation and extrication on most vehicles of all propulsion types.
Several companies are developing specialized tools to help firefighters respond more effectively:
- Bridgehill: Offers fire blankets with enhanced coatings and design features for easier deployment.
- Turtle Fire Systems: Created dome-shaped under-vehicle nozzles for targeted water suppression; praised for durability and versatility.
- Ziamatic: Developed the Vehicle Cooling Unit (VCU), tested for its ability to reduce heat quickly during EV fires.
- Toxic Suppression: Introduced the Spartanburg-Pruitt Protocol, combining fire blankets and under-vehicle nozzles for structured response.
- EV Rescue App: Provides first responders with quick access to EV-specific emergency guides and battery locations, streamlining response times.
Ongoing Concerns
Despite these innovations, no universal solution exists. Fire departments face challenges in funding, training, and adapting tools to their unique needs. Even promising methods like fire blankets have limitations—experiments show they may not prevent thermal runaway and could pose explosion risks when oxygen is reintroduced.
Li-ion battery fire mitigation remains a dynamic and evolving field. As EV technology advances, so too must the tools, protocols, and knowledge used to protect responders and the public.