When it comes to mobility, the future is electric, and that means a lot of batteries.
Unfortunately, batteries can potentially catch fire or explode, causing fast, ferocious fires.
But we might have a solution or several solutions.
Today Im focusing on prevention.
TheThermarestordevice offers preventative maintenance.
The equipment monitors detection points and detects heat.
It’s free, every week, in your inbox.
If it detects abnormal heat (exceeding 80C), it isolates the power and removes the ignition source.
It can be fitted into new and existing consumer electronics and is easy to install.
Verdict:Could a product like a Thermarestor be available for retrofit?
I can see it resonating, especially with ebike owners that already hack their ebikes.
Connecting observability to an app would also be helpful.
Meetthe e-bulb, marketed as the worlds smallest fire extinguisher.
Specifically, the e-bulb is a thermally activated glass bulb that contains a circuit interrupter.
The bulb has a non-toxic, non-conductive extinguishing liquid.
The thermal bulb bursts upon reaching a hazardous temperature, and the liquid converts into gas.
This means that the electrical fire cannot be reignited.
The company is currently in discussion with car manufacturers to apply their solution to batteries.
Verdict:Whats not to like about a product that extinguishes tiny fires at the source?
However, unlike the Thermarestor, the e-bulb is responsive rather than preventative.
Safer batteries
Battery startupZapBattconsiders the safe batteries of the future those made from lithium titanate.
Ive seen the cell tortured, and Ive never seen a single fire on them.
Historically lithium titanate has not received as much attention as lithium-ion because of its lower energy density.
The downside is that lithium-titanate batteries cost twice as much as lithium-ionbatteries.
But one company is selling and renting ebikes specifically for delivery ridersZoomo.
I spoke to Joey Skavroneck, the companys US Director.
All riders get access to Zoomos comprehensive service and maintenance plans.
Verdict: Bikes designed with delivery riders in mind seem an obvious win.
In an ideal world, delivery companies would also provide appropriate storage and changing facilities also.
You cant combat a problem unless you truly understand it.
One priority is cell traceability.
However, for weight, design, and cost considerations, this is not always practical.
Verdict:Its positive that Bo is thinking critically about battery safety.
Id love to see a partnership with some of the preventative tech like Thermarestor.
Story byCate Lawrence
Cate Lawrence is an Australian tech journo living in Berlin.
