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Writer's pictureBaba Mulani

Thermal Runaway Analysis on Lithium-ion Batteries



Reference example (video) courtesy : UCL (University College London)


Thermal runaway is a potentially hazardous situation in which an escalation in temperature can result in fires or explosions, especially in lithium-ion batteries. 

Laboratory simulations use advanced techniques, such as X-ray imaging and in-situ measurements, to study the intricate details of these phenomena.


Lab Simulations and analysis:


1. Controlled Environment:


An isolated chamber is used to control variables like temperature, pressure, and humidity during tests.


2. Inducing Conditions:


Methods employed can include external heating, overcharging, creating short circuits, or physically abusing the device.


3. X-ray Imaging:


 -Real-time Insight: Using X-rays during the simulation allows researchers to view internal structural changes in the battery or device without disrupting the experiment.


 -Electrode Behavior: X-rays can capture electrode deformations or fractures, which might lead to internal short circuits.


 -Gas Evolution: Bubbles and gas pockets formed during thermal runaway can be visualized, giving insights into the decomposition processes.


4. In-situ Measurements:


 -Continuous Monitoring: In-situ techniques may involve placing sensors directly inside the battery or device, providing continuous real-time data.


 -Internal Temperature Gradients: While external sensors measure overall temperature, in-situ sensors can detect temperature variations within the device.


 -Voltage and Current: Monitoring these parameters in real-time helps identify the onset and progression of thermal runaway.


 -Electrochemical Analysis: In-situ electrochemical cells can be used to study the changes in battery chemistry during the test.


5. Measurement Tools:


Apart from X-ray tools and in-situ sensors, labs may use thermal cameras, pressure sensors, and other diagnostic tools.


6. Outcome Analysis:


After the test, researchers analyze the samples using microscopic analysis, chemical assays, X-ray imaging, and data from in-situ measurements.


Benefits of Advanced Techniques:


1. Detailed Insights: X-rays and in-situ measurements offer a granular view of the internal happenings during thermal runaway, which can be crucial for understanding the root causes.


2. Better Predictions: With real-time data, researchers can model and predict potential failure scenarios more accurately.


3. Improved Safety: By gaining a deeper understanding of failure mechanisms, manufacturers can design safer batteries and electronic devices.


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