This paper conducts an experimental study to develop a response strategy for lithium-ion battery fires. Guided by the principle of “first control, then extinguish”, the strategy integrates a lithium-ion battery-specific fire-controlling blanket with castable fire-extinguishing agents. Both fire tests of e-bikes and lithium-ion batteries are conducted. From e-bike fire tests, the feasibility of rescuers conducting close-range disposal of LIB (lithium-ion battery) fires is analyzed from three perspectives, i.e., fire evolution stage, battery splashing and high temperature. The results indicate a high risk of fire spread, as well as a strong likelihood of human injury caused by flying LIB debris and extremely hot gases. Subsequently, the fire-controlling capability of the fire blanket is validated. It not only blocks splashing batteries and jet flames, reducing combustion intensity, but also offers a safe way for personnel to operate the portable fire extinguishers. Through two castable extinguishing agents tested, the perfluorohexanone-based agent outperforms the water-based alternative. The reasons are as follows. First, perfluorohexanone evaporates easily in the low-temperature, confined environment created by the fire blanket. Second, it possesses both physical and chemical fire-extinguishing capabilities, ultimately delivering a more potent combustion suppression effect.
Liu et al. (Thu,) studied this question.