Summary
- 24M developed the Impervio separator to prevent dendrite formation in overcharged batteries
- Overcharging a battery can lead to fires or explosions due to internal short circuits
- Impervio separator significantly improved safety by preventing overcharged battery cells from catching fire
- Impervio separator resulted in one cell remaining stable while the other burst into flames during testing
- Other companies, like LG Chem, are also working on solutions to prevent battery fires but are still a few years away from becoming standard in electric vehicles.
Article
The Importance of Preventing Battery Fires
Battery fires in electric vehicles are a serious concern due to the potential for long-lasting fires that can pose significant danger. While these incidents are statistically less likely than fires in combustion-powered vehicles, the consequences can be severe. With innovation constantly driving progress in the battery industry, U.S.-based startup 24M has developed a game-changing solution known as the Impervio battery separator. This technology aims to prevent overcharged battery cells from igniting, ultimately improving safety in electric vehicles. The Impervio separator works by obstructing dendrite formation and controlling the cell at an individual electrode level, offering an extra layer of security and the potential to prevent thermal runaway.
The Impervio Separator in Action
A recent demonstration by 24M showcased the effectiveness of the Impervio separator in preventing battery fires. Two lithium nickel manganese cobalt graphite cells were fully charged and then brought to 100% overcapacity, a situation that can lead to dendrite formation and internal short circuits. The cell using 24M’s Impervio separator remained stable throughout the testing, with temperatures never exceeding 86 degrees Fahrenheit. In contrast, the off-the-shelf battery cell burst into flames after just 38 minutes, reaching a scorching 293 degrees. This striking difference highlights the potential of the Impervio separator to revolutionize battery safety in electric vehicles.
Moving Towards a Sustainable Energy Future
24M’s President and CEO, Naoki Ota, emphasized the importance of battery safety in enabling the widespread adoption of electric vehicles, particularly in light of recent incidents of EV fires worldwide. Innovative solutions like the Impervio separator are essential for creating a sustainable energy future and driving advancements in battery technology. By preventing battery fires and introducing new opportunities for innovation, technologies like the Impervio separator play a crucial role in shaping the future of electric vehicles.
24M vs. LG Chem: Innovations in Battery Safety
While 24M’s Impervio separator is not the only solution in development to address battery fire risks, it stands out for its ability to control dendrite propagation at the individual electrode level. In comparison, LG Chem has developed a temperature-responsive “safety reinforced layer” that acts as a fuse to block the flow of electricity in the early stages of overheating. Both 24M and LG Chem are at the forefront of advancements in battery safety, though it may still be a few years before their technologies become standard features in electric vehicles. Despite this timeline, these innovations hold significant promise for enhancing the safety and reliability of EV batteries.
Challenges and Opportunities in Battery Safety
The challenges associated with preventing battery fires in electric vehicles are complex, requiring innovative solutions that address the root causes of incidents such as dendrite formation and internal short circuits. Companies like 24M and LG Chem are paving the way for advancements in battery safety, offering hope for a future where EVs can be operated with greater confidence and peace of mind. As these technologies continue to evolve and gain traction within the industry, the potential for safer and more reliable electric vehicles becomes increasingly achievable. By prioritizing battery safety and investing in cutting-edge solutions like the Impervio separator, the automotive industry can work towards a future where EVs are not only sustainable but also inherently safe and dependable.
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