New research calls for multi-pronged approach to lithium-ion battery safety

If has partnered with Research Institutes of Sweden (RISE) on "COMBAT: Compartment Explosions Induced by Batteries", a project focusing on the risks and means to prevent explosions caused by lithium-ion batteries. The project aims to understand and reduce the dangers associated with these batteries, particularly in enclosed spaces such as ships, where flammable gases can build up.

electric cars shipped

At If, we aim to support our clients in the shift towards low-emission technologies. By supporting various research projects, we deepen our understanding of new technologies. This approach also enables us to ensure that while technological solutions advance rapidly, we stay abreast of evolving risks, which can often progress faster than historical data and legislation.

Since 2020, the number of lithium-ion battery fires in Denmark has nearly tripled, according to new data from Danske Beredskaber and Beredskabsstyrelsen. Last year alone, 143 fires were linked to batteries in mobile devices, e-bikes, scooters, and gardening tools.  

According to Andreas Kräling, Head of Property Risk Management, Sweden, “Batteries come in many formats, sizes and chemistry and not all are the same - but many adds risks and can cause fast-developing fires. And smaller is not necessarily better from a risk standpoint as the small ones often lack a Battery Management System.” 

Harnessing renewable energy with BESS

BESS is increasingly being utilised to store energy generated from renewable sources like solar and wind. This technology allows for the efficient management of energy supply and demand, ensuring that excess energy produced during peak times can be stored and used when production is low. BESS also provides stability to the electrical grid by balancing fluctuations and preventing outages.

Contributing to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, BESS boosts the usability and enables the further growth in installation of clean energy. Its integration into various sectors —including residential, commercial, and industrial applications — is paving the way towards a more sustainable and resilient energy future.

What is a lithium-ion battery?

Lithium-ion batteries are used widely in devices and machinery, powering the ways we live, work, and connect. Because they can be found everywhere, irrespective of industry, the number of lithium-ion battery-operated devices in households and businesses worldwide is countless.

Lithium-ion batteries power laptops, mobile phones, backup power systems, electric bikes, and scooters. On a larger scale, electric cars, forklift trucks, and Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) also rely on lithium-ion technology, and demand for these solutions is projected to increase seven-fold between the years 2022–2030.

Transporting lithium-ion batteries on ships poses risks

Mike Barry, Risk Specialist, If
Mike Barry, Risk Specialist, If

Lithium-ion batteries are integral to a wide range of devices and machines across industries, resulting in a significant volume of shipments. However, transporting lithium-ion batteries on ships poses significant risks, including fire and explosion hazards.

“Thermal runaway, where one failing cell can cause adjacent cells to fail, can lead to intense fires. Improper handling and packaging can compound these risks, and the limited firefighting resources on ships make controlling such fires challenging,” explains Mike Barry, Risk Specialist at If.

 “Additionally, fires involving lithium-ion batteries can release toxic gases, increasing risks to the crew and posing environmental hazards. Lately, we have seen a higher number of fires onboard ships due to improperly declared containers as well as EV automobiles on Roll-on/Roll Off (RoRo) vessels. It is of utmost importance that shippers know what they are transporting and that they advise shipping companies accordingly. Even limited quantities of lithium-ion batteries can pose risks if not correctly reported,” says Barry.  

Lithium-ion battery fire incident at Zeebrugge Port

According to World Cargo News, a lithium-ion battery fire took place on the April 16, 2025, when a blaze broke out on the RoRo ship MV Delphine, while it was berthed at logistics solutions provider CLdN’s terminal in Zeebrugge, Belgium. The incident, which started on a cargo deck carrying approximately 60 electric vehicles (EV) and 40 conventional cars, caused significant damage.  

Recent reports state that the fire did not originate in an EV, however, electric vehicles were involved as it progressed. The fire triggered the vessel’s CO2 fire suppression system, and local firefighters quickly evacuated the crew. Four tugboats equipped with water cannons were deployed to cool the ship's hull. Despite the intense heat and challenges brought by burning lithium-ion batteries, the fire was extinguished using a combination of CO2, nitrogen, and external cooling. 

Barry notes, "The latest industry guidelines, from Vehicle Carrier Safety Forum, recommend operators respond by promptly evacuating, shutting down ventilation, and starting CO2 flooding very early in the firefighting process. Putting out fire using CO2, nitrogen, and external cooling is effective in this scenario because CO2 and nitrogen displace the oxygen that is essential for combustion. External cooling helps reduce the temperature of the burning material, preventing re-ignition.”  

Safety considerations

The use of lithium-ion batteries presents unique risks due to several factors, including the following (1): 

  • Thermal runaway is a self-sustaining, uncontrolled increase in temperature within a battery cell, leading to fire or explosion. A battery cell that is damaged or exposed to intense heat can trigger thermal runaway.   
  • Confined spaces and enclosed compartments where flammable gases can accumulate from the batteries, and the gas buildup can lead to explosions if ignited.  
  • Fire suppression challenges arise when putting out BESS fires, as the unique nature of lithium-ion batteries can present significant difficulties. Traditional firefighting methods may not work, and specialised solutions such as water-based or gaseous suppression systems are needed to manage the fire and reduce explosion risks. These complexities make fire suppression a demanding task that requires careful planning and advanced technology. 

COMBAT research findings

The COMBAT study highlights the importance of using multiple strategies to effectively manage the risks of BESS explosions. Below are some mitigation strategies that were presented in the study:  

  • Ventilation: Helps reduce gas concentration but does not eliminate explosion risks. Different levels of ventilation – basic, preventive, casualty – are recommended. 

  • Deflagration panels: These are designed to lessen the impact of explosions, with effectiveness dependent on covering sufficient surface area. 

  • Fire suppression systems: Water-based systems provide long-term cooling and can reduce explosion pressure. Gaseous systems can help if gas concentration is maintained at a sufficiently high level. 

References
  • Statista, 2023. Lithium-ion batteries – statistics & facts: Statista.com
  • COMBAT study
  • WorldCargoNews.com
  • Source: Vehicle Carrier Safety Forum – High Level Guidelines, January 2025 
  • Source: COMBAT report at www.ri.se