Gas emissions from Lithium-ion battery cells undergoing abuse from external fire

Heat release rate, total heat released and toxic gas emissions were measured during exposure of commercial lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery cells to an external propane burner fire. Hydrogen fluoride (HF) was found in all tests and the released HF emissions measured via online FTIR range between 12-81 mg/Wh. Gas-washing bottles were used as a secondary measurement technique in one of the tests. The gas washing bottle and the FTIR measurements were in the same order of magnitude proving the usefulness of the FTIR technique even if there is an accumulation of HF in the filters used in the beginning of the test. The HF release for a large battery pack exposed to fire could thus in a worst case scenario result in a very large volume of toxic gases