Lithium-ion Batteries

The use of lithium-ion batteries in the maritime sector is increasing. Many see battery energy storage as the most suitable decarbonisation solution for the small craft, and pleasure sector – the road to trouble is paved with many good intentions. This is debatable, however, with the supply of sustainable fuels such as HVO that can be used in diesel engines without  any  conversion  of  the engine; but battery technologies will certainly have a role to play in a low emission future.

In this race to lower emissions, the safety challenges of lithium-ion batteries are poorly understood,  or even completely ignored. Leading edge safety research and testing of lithium-ion batteries and emerging battery chemistries are revealing a huge amount of new detail about the complexity of battery failure, and about the nature of the hazards that will create new risks from marine application of these high energy batteries. Continue reading “The road to trouble is paved with many good intentions”

INTRODUCTION

Lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries are an everyday essential item embedded in everyday life, found throughout the world and in almost every household or workplace in one form or another. We can find them in portable devices such as mobile phones, laptops, tablets, power banks and cordless vacuums, all the way through to electric vehicles (EVs) – scooters, buses, cars and bikes. However, their widespread use has led to a surge in fire incidents, particularly involving EVs. Recent media reports and insurance data highlight a 17% increase in Li-ion battery-related fires in New Zealand alone1. As the maritime industry embraces the global shift toward electrification, the integration of Li-ion batteries and EVs onboard vessels presents both opportunities and significant fire safety challenges. This article explores the science behind Li-ion batteries, the risks they pose, and the implications for maritime operations, drawing on recent incidents and emerging mitigation strategies. Continue reading “Navigating the Risks: Lithium-Ion Batteries, Electric Vehicles, and Fire Safety in the Maritime Industry”