Extinguishing lithium battery fires: safe and effective control of lithium-ion fires
What is a lithium battery fire and why does it require a different approach?
A lithium battery fire is caused by an internal reaction that generates extreme heat. This reaction is known as thermal runaway. The temperature rises rapidly and can spread to additional cells. This results in an intense battery fire that is difficult to stop.
A lithium battery fire behaves differently from fires in fire class A, B, or F. The energy is stored inside the battery cells and can be released again after initial suppression. This means you need a method that both reduces temperature and limits oxygen supply.
Typical characteristics of a lithium battery fire include:
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rapid temperature increase
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release of flammable gases
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risk of re-ignition
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limited effectiveness of traditional extinguishing agents
Extinguishing battery fires: what works and what does not in practice
Why water, powder, or foam often fails to stop a lithium-ion battery fire
Lithium battery fires have a very high energy density. Water can cool the surface but often does not reach the source of the reaction. Powder and foam usually fail to fully isolate the battery. As a result, internal reactions continue and the risk of a renewed lithium battery fire remains high.
Extinguishing battery fires with Hydrogel: cooling and oxygen isolation combined
Hydrogel combines cooling and isolation in a single solution. The gel consists of water and clay. The clay particles form a barrier that restricts oxygen. The high water content ensures rapid temperature reduction. Due to its thixotropic structure, the gel adheres to surfaces, including vertical ones. This significantly reduces the risk of re-ignition.
Advantages of Hydrogel for extinguishing battery fires:
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rapid cooling with more than 95 percent water
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oxygen-blocking barrier formed by clay particles
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adheres to vertical surfaces
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safe for use on electrical equipment up to 1000 volts
Tested according to NTA 8133: performance during thermal runaway
The effectiveness of Hydrogel in lithium-ion battery fires has been tested in accordance with the NTA 8133 guideline. More details are available on the page explaining the NTA 8133 test method for lithium batteries. The test demonstrates that Hydrogel can limit the thermal runaway process.
Safely extinguishing lithium battery fires with PFAS-free Hydrogel
Hydrogel is completely PFAS-free. This has been confirmed by an Intertek analysis showing less than 1 microgram per kilogram. According to OECD 201 and 202, the gel is not toxic to the environment. No harmful decomposition products or irritations are known.
Advantages of PFAS-free Hydrogel for lithium battery fire suppression:
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safe for people and the environment
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future-proof in light of upcoming PFAS restrictions
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no toxic residues or fumes
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easy disposal after use
More information about the composition and performance of Hydrogel can be found on the Hydrogel information page.
Applications: where lithium battery fire protection is most relevant
Industry, logistics, and mobility
Lithium-ion batteries are widely used in tools, vehicles, and mobile equipment. A lithium battery fire in these environments can have serious consequences.
Buildings, offices, and technical areas
Charging points and UPS installations pose additional risks. Targeted measures are required to limit lithium battery fire hazards.
Battery storage, e-bike environments, and charging rooms
Charging processes increase the risk of overheating. Effective extinguishing methods are essential in the event of a lithium-ion battery fire.
Preventing lithium battery fires: measures for companies and organizations
Preventing damage, overcharging, and overheating
Protect batteries against impact. Use charging equipment suitable for the specific battery type. Avoid prolonged charging without supervision.
Safe charging and storage of lithium-ion batteries
Use fire-resistant zones and separate storage areas. Keep batteries out of direct sunlight.
Guidelines for inspection, monitoring, and technical installation
Regular inspections help identify irregularities at an early stage. Monitoring supports safe and controlled operations.
How Anogas helps organizations safely extinguish lithium battery fires
Anogas supports organizations in safely controlling lithium-ion battery fires. You receive expert advice on application and risk management. The PFAS-free Hydrogel is suitable for handheld extinguishers and fixed systems. Anogas has more than twenty years of experience in material research and development.
Benefits of working with Anogas:
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support with integration into OEM systems
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PFAS-free solutions compatible with your installation
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technically substantiated documentation and test results
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stable supply and in-house production
Frequently asked questions about extinguishing lithium battery fires
Can you extinguish a lithium battery fire with water?
Water cools the surface but often does not stop a lithium battery fire. The internal reaction may continue.
How can you recognize an early-stage lithium battery fire?
Watch for heat, smoke, and unusual odors. Batteries may swell or emit hissing sounds.
What immediate steps should you take in a lithium battery fire?
Isolate the area, keep distance, and apply targeted suppression using an agent that cools and isolates.
Is a PFAS-free extinguishing agent effective for lithium-ion battery fires?
Yes. Hydrogel is PFAS-free and tested according to OECD guidelines and NTA 8133.
What is the difference between a lithium battery fire and a conventional fire?
A lithium battery fire continues to release internal energy and can re-ignite after initial suppression.
