illustration d'un emballement thermique dans une batterie lithium-ion
Lithium-ion battery fires: understanding and managing thermal runaway
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Lithium-ion battery fires: understanding the thermal runaway phenomenon

Lithium-ion batteries power our smartphones, electric vehicles, and industrial systems. But they pose a major risk: thermal runaway. When it occurs, a simple malfunction can cause a lithium battery fire that’s extremely difficult to control.

In this article, we explain the phenomenon, its causes, and the solutions to better contain a lithium battery fire and limit the damage.

What is thermal runaway?

Thermal runaway is a chain reaction caused by internal overheating of the battery.

  • La température grimpe rapidement jusqu’à 400°C en quelques secondes
  • Les électrolytes inflammables s’enflamment, alimentant le feu
  • La réaction devient incontrôlable, rendant l’incendie particulièrement complexe à éteindre

This phenomenon is the main cause of lithium-ion battery fires in electric vehicles, industrial storage and electronic devices.

The main causes of a lithium battery fire

Electrical overloads : Too fast or excessive charging generates metal deposits (dendrites) which cause internal short circuits.

Mechanical damage : shocks, perforations or crushing weaken the internal separator.

Mechanical damage : Heat accelerates chemical reactions and the degradation of components.

Design defects or aging : worn or poorly manufactured cells are more vulnerable.

Why is it so difficult to extinguish a lithium battery fire?

Fires caused by thermal runaway do not behave like conventional fires:

  • They are self-sustaining as long as the battery contains energy
  • The fire can rekindle even after extinguishing
  • The fumes released contain toxic and corrosive gases

In practice, it often takes several thousand liters of water to completely cool a burning battery.

couverture anti-feu vlitex en action par les pompiers

How to contain a lithium-ion battery fire?

To effectively manage a lithium battery fire, several measures are essential :

  • Isolate the vehicle or equipment in a secure area
  • Use a certified lithium-ion battery fire blanket
  • Cool intensively with water, not traditional foams
  • Equipping industrial sites with fireproof containers for storage and transport

💡 At VLICOVER, we offer specialized solutions to contain lithium battery fires, limit damage and protect responders.

Prevention: reducing the risk of thermal runaway

Ces bonnes pratiques diminuent fortement les risques et facilitent la gestion d’un incendie si celui-ci survient.

Conclusion: Act quickly to limit the damage

Thermal runaway turns a lithium-ion battery into a real fire hazard. Understanding its causes and having appropriate solutions, such as those offered by VLICOVER, is key to protecting people, infrastructure, and the environment.