Lithium fire extinguishers
Lithium fire extinguishers are designed for fires involving lithium ion batteries and accumulators. These fires require a different approach than traditional fire scenarios. Due to the growth of e mobility and energy storage, the risk of battery fires is increasing. Professional environments therefore look for a reliable fire extinguisher for lithium battery applications.
What is a lithium fire extinguisher?
A lithium fire extinguisher is a fire extinguisher for lithium batteries that is developed to bring battery fires under control in a controlled manner. The key difference compared to standard fire extinguishers lies in the management of heat and re ignition. Lithium ion batteries can develop an internal chain reaction that sustains itself. This reaction is known as thermal runaway.
A lithium battery fire extinguisher therefore focuses on stabilising the battery, not only on extinguishing visible flames. Hydrogel, for example, works by providing rapid cooling, isolating oxygen, and preventing re ignition.
Why standard fire extinguishers do not work for lithium batteries
Many traditional fire extinguishers are not suitable for use as a lithium fire extinguisher. Water, foam, and CO₂ often provide insufficient cooling or only work temporarily. As a result, the internal reaction remains active. The battery can reignite, sometimes after several minutes.
Hydrogel, on the other hand, provides long lasting cooling, significantly reducing the risk of re ignition.
The risk of thermal runaway in lithium ion batteries
Thermal runaway can occur due to overcharging, physical damage, or internal short circuits. Temperatures rise rapidly and flammable gases are released. Without targeted cooling, this process continues.
Hydrogel, thanks to its thermoresponsive properties, quickly dissipates heat and prevents the battery from reigniting.
How does a lithium fire extinguisher work?
A lithium fire extinguisher operates based on two core principles. These principles are technically validated and tested.
The operation consists of:
- Cooling the fire source with water
- Isolating oxygen by creating a barrier
- Adhesion to surfaces through thixotropic properties
This combination stops the chain reaction and limits re ignition. This principle is applied in solutions such as the hydrogel based extinguishing agents from Anogas. Hydrogel not only provides cooling, but also ensures long term stabilisation of the fire source, something traditional extinguishing agents cannot achieve.
Types of lithium fire extinguishers and extinguishing techniques
Water based lithium fire extinguishers
Water cools effectively but quickly flows away from the fire source. This increases the risk of re ignition. These extinguishers also cause significant water damage, because large volumes of water are required for prolonged cooling. In addition, sufficient water is not always available to effectively control the fire.
Gel and hydrogel based lithium battery fire extinguishers
Hydrogel combines water and clay, allowing the extinguishing agent to remain on the battery. This supports cooling and creates a stable oxygen barrier, minimising the risk of re ignition. Hydrogel prevents the battery from reigniting, even after extended periods.
Powder and alternative systems
Powder causes collateral damage and offers limited cooling, making battery fires more difficult to control. Powder can cause corrosion, damaging equipment and resulting in longer recovery times.
Where are lithium fire extinguishers used?
Industry, logistics, and technical environments
Such as production facilities, warehouses, and technical installations with batteries.
E mobility, storage, and charging environments
E bikes, electric tools, and battery storage systems require a suitable fire extinguisher for lithium batteries.
Utilities, government, and emergency services
Schools, healthcare facilities, and public buildings are also increasingly dealing with lithium batteries.
Safety, regulations, and testing of lithium fire extinguishers
Test standards for lithium battery fire extinguishers
Lithium fire extinguishers are tested according to the NTA 8133 guideline. This standard evaluates the suppression of thermal runaway in batteries up to 600 Wh. The extinguishing agent must effectively stop the chain reaction and bring the fire source safely under control. Hydrogel meets these requirements and is a safe choice for battery fires.
Health and environment: PFAS free and non toxic
Hydrogel is completely PFAS free. Intertek analyses show less than 1 microgram per kilogram. OECD 201 and 202 tests demonstrate EC50 values above 100 milligrams per litre, meaning Hydrogel does not produce harmful decomposition products and is safe for both people and the environment.
Use on electrical installations and equipment
Hydrogel is safe to use on electrical equipment up to 1000 volts.
What should you consider when choosing a fire extinguisher for lithium batteries?
Battery type and energy density
The capacity and construction of the battery determine the required extinguishing capacity.
Environment and application risk
Indoor spaces and charging areas have different requirements than outdoor locations.
Maintenance, service life, and environmental impact
Consider service life, recyclability, and suitability for fire classes such as fire class A, fire class B, and fire class F. Hydrogel is ideal for long term safety and environmental compatibility.
Lithium fire extinguishers are an essential part of modern fire safety, especially in environments with lithium ion batteries. With technically substantiated solutions, you choose safety and control. Want to know which solution fits your situation? Contact us for an in depth advisory consultation.
Frequently asked questions about lithium fire extinguishers
What is the difference between a lithium fire extinguisher and a standard fire extinguisher?
A standard fire extinguisher is designed for solid materials, liquids, or fats, while a lithium fire extinguisher is specifically developed for fires involving lithium ion batteries. The difference lies in the management of heat and re ignition, as a lithium battery fire is caused by thermal runaway and does not stop after visible flames are extinguished.
Is a lithium battery fire extinguisher safe for people and the environment?
A lithium battery fire extinguisher is safe when the extinguishing agent has been tested according to recognised standards. Hydrogel is non toxic according to OECD 201 and 202, and Intertek analyses confirm that it is completely PFAS free. The safety data sheet shows that no harmful decomposition products are formed.
Can I use a lithium fire extinguisher on electrical installations?
A hydrogel based lithium fire extinguisher can be safely used on electrical installations up to 1000 volts. This allows application in environments with active equipment and live components.
Are lithium fire extinguishers mandatory by law?
There is currently no general legal obligation for lithium fire extinguishers. However, inspections and insurers increasingly expect organisations working with lithium ion batteries to take appropriate measures. The NTA 8133 guideline is increasingly used as a reference.
Which fire classes are covered by a fire extinguisher for lithium batteries?
A hydrogel based fire extinguisher for lithium batteries is suitable for lithium ion battery fires and for fire classes A, B, and F. This allows one extinguishing agent to be used across a wide range of professional applications.
