Battery safety – Thermal Runaway and thermal propagation in focus

Online seminar
VA-01009
Participation fee: 395 €

The seminar language is English. Thermal runaway, the thermal runaway of a cell, and thermal propagation, the spread of a thermal event from cell to cell in a battery, are among the greatest safety-related challenges in the operation of lithium-ion batteries, which are now being used more extensively in the growing electromobility sector. The seminar will discuss the fundamentals of thermal runaway and thermal propagation in lithium-ion batteries and present testing and simulation options. In addition, the standards and legal framework for thermal propagation will be examined, and aspects of functional safety in connection with thermal propagation will be addressed (hazard and risk analysis according to ISO 26262:2019). Information on detection options and the proper handling of lithium-ion batteries will round off the seminar.

Speakers:

Dr. Alexander Börger
Technische Universität Braunschweig

On the subject:

Thermal runaway describes an uncontrolled chain reaction within a lithium-ion cell. Triggers can include mechanical damage, overcharging, internal short circuits, or overheating. The temperature then rises so sharply that further exothermic reactions are triggered—a self-reinforcing process.

The highest safety standards must be met for vehicle occupants and vehicles with lithium-ion batteries. A thermal runaway can lead to life-threatening situations within seconds. Fires in electric cars receive a great deal of media attention. Even a few incidents can massively damage customer confidence. Standards (e.g. UN-ECE R100, UL 2580, IEC 62660) require proof that thermal runaway and thermal propagation are controlled or prevented. Manufacturers are obliged to present robust testing and protection concepts. Recalls of entire vehicle series due to battery risks are extremely expensive.

Agenda

Online seminar, 3.30 pm to 6.30 pm

Introduction to the topic, clarification of terms
Fundamentals of thermal runaway
Detection of thermal propagation
Countermeasures and mitigation
Testing of lithium-ion batteries
Simulation of thermal runaway
Legal situation
Standards and state of the artNormen und Stand der Technik

Objective

Participants will be given the current technical, legal, and normative state of development on the topic of “thermal runaway and thermal propagation in lithium-ion batteries.”

Circle of participants

Development engineers, especially from the automotive and battery industry; university staff from electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, chemistry, physics, and computer science as well as related fields; patent attorneys.