Evaluation and design of structures to contain lithium-ion battery hazards

This article is a continuation of BakerRisk's six-part series on Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) hazards. Thus far, the series has introduced failure types, failure frequencies, fire mitigation methods, and quantifying explosion and fire hazard consequences related to BESS hazards. Lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries have the potential for severe explosion and fire hazards due to the ability of Li-ion batteries to experience thermal runaway reactions that can continue without supplemental oxygen. These hazards can have serious consequences on human life, equipment, and building integrity. Li-ion batteries have many uses, from cell phones to electric vehicles, and are also located in various facilities such as BESS or battery test labs. This fifth article in the six-part series provides a review of available analytical approaches to evaluate existing structures and design new structures for protection from Li-ion battery hazards.