Summary
- LG Chem has developed a temperature-sensitive safety layer in EV batteries to suppress thermal runaway
- Electric vehicles are less likely than gas-powered cars to catch fire
- EV fires can occur due to cell damage, short circuits, and crashes
- LG Chem’s safety layer can prevent EV batteries from catching fire
- If commercially available, LG Chem’s safety layer could improve public sentiments about EV battery safety
Article
Title: LG Chem Develops Breakthrough Safety Layer to Prevent EV Fires
LG Chem has recently announced a breakthrough in EV battery technology with the development of a temperature-sensitive safety layer to suppress thermal runaway. This innovation comes at a critical time as fears over EV battery fires have been growing nationwide in South Korea. The safety layer acts as a ‘fuse’ to block the flow of electricity in the early stages of overheating, preventing catastrophic fires from occurring.
EVs are statistically less likely to catch fire compared to gas-powered vehicles, but when they do, the results can be frightening and pose serious safety risks. LG Chem’s new safety layer aims to address these concerns and provide a solution to prevent thermal runaway, which can lead to batteries burning uncontrollably. The development involved collaboration with the Pohang University of Battery Technology in South Korea, showcasing the commitment of LG Chem to advancing EV safety.
Recent incidents such as a Mercedes EQE catching fire in an underground garage in Incheon have caused widespread panic and skepticism regarding EV safety in South Korea. The introduction of LG Chem’s safety layer offers a promising solution to combat these fears and improve public confidence in EV technology. The one-micrometer thin layer has been tested on NCM and LCO batteries, with promising results showing a significant reduction in the occurrence of fires.
The flexibility of the safety layer allows it to adjust suppression levels based on temperature changes, ensuring optimal protection against thermal runaway. LG Chem plans to conduct further safety testing on large-capacity EV batteries and aims to implement this technology in mass production by 2025. The potential commercial availability of this safety layer could have a substantial impact on public perceptions of EV battery safety, not only in South Korea but globally.
The development of the temperature-responsive safety layer by LG Chem represents a significant step forward in improving EV safety standards. The collaboration between LG Chem and the Pohang University of Battery Technology highlights the importance of innovation and research in addressing the challenges of EV battery fires. With further testing and implementation planned in the coming years, LG Chem’s breakthrough solution has the potential to make a lasting impact on the EV industry.
LG Chem’s commitment to enhancing safety in EV batteries through technological advancements is commendable. By addressing key concerns related to thermal runaway and battery fires, LG Chem is paving the way for a safer and more secure EV ecosystem. As the EV market continues to grow, advancements in battery technology such as the temperature-sensitive safety layer developed by LG Chem will play a crucial role in ensuring the long-term sustainability and safety of electric vehicles.
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