Intuitive fred888: It is the Cobalt based Electric Batteries that are the most likely to combust

Friday, June 6, 2025

It is the Cobalt based Electric Batteries that are the most likely to combust

Though there are other types of Lithium types of batteries it is the Cobalt based Batteries that are the most likely to spontaneously combust. So, when you are buying batteries in any form try to avoid the Cobalt ones in order to avoid cars or other things catching fire like Cell phones and Cell phone Chargers and Laptop Computers and Ipads and other devices that need stronger batteries.

I asked Google AI the Following Question: "why are Cobalt Based Batteries catching fire? "

Cobalt-based lithium-ion batteries, particularly those using nickel-manganese-cobalt (NMC) cathodes, are prone to fires due to a phenomenon called "thermal runaway," according to the International Council on Clean Transportation. This occurs when a battery's internal components heat up uncontrollably, potentially leading to an explosion and fire. Overcharging, exposure to high temperatures, physical damage, and manufacturing defects can all contribute to thermal runaway.

Here's a more detailed explanation:

Thermal Runaway:
When a lithium-ion battery heats up, the chemical reactions within it can accelerate rapidly, generating more heat and causing a cascade effect. This can lead to a fire or explosion.

Factors Contributing to Thermal Runaway:

Overcharging: Charging a battery beyond its recommended voltage or for an extended period can cause overheating and potentially trigger thermal runaway.

Exposure to High Temperatures: Leaving batteries in direct sunlight or other hot environments can increase their internal temperature and increase the risk of thermal runaway.

Physical Damage: Puncturing, crushing, or otherwise damaging a battery can create short circuits, leading to overheating and thermal runaway.

Manufacturing Defects: Impurities in electrode materials or incorrect assembly can also contribute to the risk of thermal runaway.

NMC Batteries and Thermal Runaway:

While thermal runaway can occur in various battery chemistries, NMC batteries, commonly used in electric vehicles and other devices, have a relatively higher risk due to their chemical composition.

Shift towards Cobalt-Free Batteries:

The battery industry is increasingly shifting towards using cobalt-free lithium iron phosphate (LFP) cathodes, which are known for their higher thermal stability and lower fire risk.

Cobalt-free batteries could power cars of the future | MIT News
Jan 18, 2024 — Because of the many drawbacks to cobalt, a great deal of research has gone into trying to develop alternative battery ...
MIT News