To better understand why lithium-ion batteries can sometimes be hazardous, lets first refresh how they work.
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Which part of the battery is flammable?
The batteries flammability has to do with their liquid electrolytes.
Basically, molecules that involve a carbon atom attached to three oxygen atoms.
These liquids are typically flammable, and can be volatile and unstable when exposed to high temperatures.
Whats causing the fires?
Simply put, this short circuit causes excessive heat, which in turn causes a chemical reaction.
This process is called thermal runaway and can lead to a domino effect.
What can cause a thermal runaway?
Why do EV fires present a unique challenge?
For instance, you should avoid overcharging.
You should also regularlyget your vehicles batteries checked and repaired from the automakers authorized service centers.
HT Ion Energy,ThoughtCo,Stuff
Story byIoanna Lykiardopoulou
Ioanna is a writer at TNW.
With a background in the humanities, she has a soft spot for social impact-enabling technologies.
