UL Solutions Introduces Battery Case Thermal Runaway Evaluation Solution

UL Solutions, an applied safety science company, announced the launch of the first material screening test method for evaluatingelectric vehicle(EV) battery enclosure materials: Battery Enclosure Thermal Runaway (BETR) evaluation.

Image source: UL Solutions

Battery performance continues to challenge EV efficiency, i.e. EVs have shorter range due to heavier battery systems and therefore require more frequent charging.However, the battery housing system plays a key role in mitigating the effects of thermal runaway, which is a significant contributor to the risks associated with Li-ion batteries.Thermal runaway occurs when a lithium-ion battery enters an uncontrollable self-heating state that causes fires, smoke and extremely high temperatures, while spewing harmful particles.

Eric Bulington, Director of Product Management, Engineering Materials at UL Solutions, said: "As mobility continues to move towardselectrification, thermal runaway has become a critical safety issue in the automotive industry and has created a heightened focus on how to use the best enclosure materials for thermal runaway protection. With our latest products, we will help automakers meet these challenges while meeting the market's need for innovative and trusted automotive products."

This UL Solutions test method evaluates material performance by simulating thermal runaway scenarios.Evaluation requires testing material boards and entire cell assemblies, reducing testing costs and development time for resin manufacturers and material suppliers.The evaluation also focused on screening multiple formulations during the R&D process, allowing material producers to provide original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) with solutions that meet their needs, taking into account the properties of various materials.

Bulington also said: "UL Solutions has been a leader in all types of batteries, and the launch of this program is a natural extension of our electric vehicle field. With this product, UL Solutions will provide automotive OEMs and suppliers, as well as automotive components and systems. Manufacturers provide testing and consulting solutions to meet multiple standards and regulations to solve industry problems."