Battery fires in electric vehicles are a serious concern that the industry has been working hard to address. One U.S.-based startup, 24M, has developed a groundbreaking solution to prevent battery fires with its Impervio separator. This innovative technology prevents dendrite formation in battery cells when they are overcharged, ultimately enhancing safety and reducing the risk of fires.
The Impervio separator has been shown to significantly improve safety by preventing overcharged battery cells from catching fire. In a recent demonstration, 24M compared two lithium nickel manganese cobalt graphite cells – one with the Impervio separator and one without. The results were clear: the cell with the Impervio separator remained stable and did not exceed 86 degrees Fahrenheit, while the standard cell burst into flames after just 38 minutes of testing.
Naoki Ota, President and CEO of 24M, emphasized the importance of battery safety in the widespread adoption of electric vehicles. He highlighted the recent EV fires around the world as a driving force behind the need for new safety innovations. The Impervio separator offers a layer of security by monitoring the cell at the individual electrode level and enabling failsafe mechanisms in the event of a potential short circuit.
24M’s separator works by obstructing dendrite propagation and controlling the cell’s electrochemistry to prevent thermal runaway. This added layer of security is crucial in preventing battery fires and creating new opportunities for battery innovation. The Cambridge-based startup is at the forefront of battery safety research, alongside other companies like LG Chem, who have developed temperature-responsive safety layers to prevent overheating.
The race to enhance battery safety in electric vehicles is ongoing, with companies like 24M and LG Chem leading the way with innovative solutions. As the demand for electric vehicles continues to rise, these advancements in battery technology will be crucial in ensuring the safety and reliability of EVs. With technologies like the Impervio separator and temperature-responsive safety layers, the industry is taking proactive steps to minimize the risk of battery fires and pave the way for a sustainable energy future.