Battery Abuse Test Experimental Validation

Advanced battery safety is of concern for the successful commercialization of these technologies. The USABC (United States Advanced Battery Consortium) and PNGV (Partnership for a New Generation of Vehicles) are developing high power battery systems for use in electric and hybrid/electric vehicle applications. Part of the objectives of these programs is to establish and verify testing procedures regarding the safety and abuse resistance of particular batteries or battery technologies. This paper will discuss the status of abuse testing procedures that have been developed for battery systems. The goal of these tests is to determine the extent to which defined abuse conditions contribute to venting, rupture, release of hazardous substances, fire, smoke or uncontrolled energy releases. Areas of abuse testing that have been identified are (1) mechanical, (2) electrical, and (3) thermal.

This paper will present a general discussion of the test methodology, and the nature of the gaseous and particulate emissions resulting from the thermal abuse of Li-ion batteries. Methods and techniques used to analyze these emissions will be described. Issues concerning the potential environmental and safety implications resulting from this information will be addressed.