LG's Revolutionary Safety Layer Slashes EV Battery Fire Risk
Seoul, Saturday, 5 October 2024.
LG Chem introduces Safety Reinforced Layer (SRL), a groundbreaking 1-micrometer-thick material that prevents thermal runaway in lithium-ion batteries. In tests, SRL-equipped batteries showed no fires during nail penetration, compared to 84% ignition in standard batteries, potentially revolutionizing EV safety.
Enhancing Battery Safety with SRL
The Safety Reinforced Layer (SRL) developed by LG Chem represents a significant advancement in battery safety technology. Designed to address the issue of thermal runaway, a condition where battery temperatures can escalate to dangerous levels, SRL is a mere 1 micrometer thick, making it approximately 100 times thinner than a human hair. This thin barrier is strategically placed between the cathode and current collector within lithium-ion batteries, serving as a safeguard against high-temperature-induced short circuits that can lead to fires[1].
Mechanism of Action
SRL’s effectiveness lies in its ability to alter its molecular structure when exposed to temperatures exceeding 90°C to 130°C. This change significantly increases the material’s electrical resistance by 5,000 ohms for every 1°C rise in temperature, thereby reducing the flow of current and curbing the potential for thermal runaway. Impressively, the resistance can become over 1,000 times higher than at normal temperatures, and this change is reversible, allowing the battery to return to normal function once cooled[1].
Implications for Electric Vehicle Safety
The introduction of SRL could mark a turning point for the safety of electric vehicles (EVs). During rigorous testing, SRL-equipped batteries demonstrated remarkable resilience. In nail penetration tests, none of the batteries with SRL caught fire, whereas 84% of standard batteries ignited. Similarly, in impact tests, standard batteries failed completely, while those with SRL did not ignite, highlighting the potential of SRL to drastically reduce battery-related fire incidents in EVs[1].
Future Prospects and Industry Impact
LG Chem, based in Seoul, South Korea, is at the forefront of this innovation. The company’s efforts in developing SRL demonstrate a commitment to enhancing the safety and reliability of EV batteries. This breakthrough could not only improve consumer confidence in electric vehicles but also provide LG Chem with a competitive edge in the rapidly evolving battery market. The company’s collaboration with research teams and its focus on scaling up SRL integration into mass production processes further underscore the transformative potential of this technology[1].