Fire suppression composition formulated for lithium batteries

Abstract

The present invention relates to a fire suppression composition and system designed to extinguish challenging fires, such as Class B fires involving lithium batteries as well as Class A, B, and D fire scenarios. The composition includes a mineral component, a water-based liquid propellant, and a synergistic blend of additives. This innovative combination enables the composition to float on liquid surfaces and adhere to burning materials, effectively suppressing and extinguishing fires. The composition's ability to form a barrier on burning materials prevents fire spread and re-ignition, making it highly effective for both vehicle fires and industrial settings. This advancement offers a versatile and robust solution to modern fire hazards, suitable for use in various delivery systems.

Description

orney oc e : re .PCT / US24 / 44953 02 September 2024 (02.09.2024)FIRE SUPPRESSION COMPOSITION FORMULATED FOR LITHIUM BATTERIESBACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION1. Field of the Invention

[0001] The present invention relates in general to fire suppression formulations but more particularly to a fire suppression composition formulated for lithium batteries.2. Description of Related Art

[0002] Lithium-ion battery fires are becoming an increasing occurrence, due to the amount of consumer products containing one or more lithium-ion batteries. An existing approach to suppress lithium-ion battery fires is to use water to suppress the fire until the lithium-ion battery fire is completely out. This can take from one hour to half of a day, depending on the amount of cooling the thermal run-away needs. With lithium-ion batteries becoming more common in EV vehicles and electronic consumer products, the frequency and resulting harm caused by lithium-ion battery fires will increase. Consequently, the present invention provides a fire suppression composition formulated for lithium batteries.orney oc e : re .PCT / US24 / 44953 02 September 2024 (02 9.2024)BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0003] The following presents a simplified summary of some embodiments of the invention in order to provide a basic understanding of the invention. This summary is not an extensive overview of the invention. It is not intended to identify key / critical elements of the invention or to delineate the scope of the invention. Its sole purpose is to present some embodiments of the invention in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.

[0004] It is a particular object of the invention to provide a fire suppression composition configured specifically to fight lithium battery fires, and other liquid medium fires. The invention comprises a synergistic mix of material components including a mineral component of vermiculite and an insulator, such as perlite, a liquid propellant or solvent, such as water, and additives such as adhesives, stabilizers, rheology modifiers, neutralizers, and preservatives.

[0005] The composition uniquely leverages the synergistic effects of its components to achieve superior fire suppression capabilities. The mineral components contribute to the thermal stability and dispersion characteristics, while the additives enhance the viscosity and adhesion properties of the composition. This allows the fire suppression mixture to float on liquid surfaces, such as oil, and effectively smother fires by adhering to and encapsulating the burning materials.

[0006] It is yet another object of the invention to provide a composition versatile enough to be used in various delivery systems, from handheld fire extinguishers to integratedorney oc e : re .PCT / US24 / 44953 02 September 2024 (02 )9.2024) systems in vehicles or fixed installations.

[0007] In order to do so, a fire suppression composition is provided, comprising a mineral component comprising an insulator; a liquid solvent; and at least one additive selected from a group consisting of a rheology modifier, a thickening agent, and a neutralizer, wherein a synergistic effect between the mineral component and the at least one additive enables the composition to float on a liquid medium to prevent or suppress fires on the liquid medium.

[0008] In another aspect of the invention, a fire suppression composition is provided, comprising a mineral component comprising vermiculite and perlite; a liquid propellant; and at least one additive, wherein a synergistic effect between the mineral component and the at least one additive enables the fire suppression to float on a liquid medium to prevent or suppress fires on the liquid medium.

[0009] In one embodiment, the at least one additive includes at least one of: calcium bentonite clay, xanthan gum, potassium bicarbonate, carbomer, cellulose gum, sodium bicarbonate, and aluminum hydroxide. In another embodiment, the at least one additive is a plurality of additives, each selected from a group consisting of: calcium bentonite clay, xanthan gum, potassium bicarbonate, carbomer, cellulose gum, sodium bicarbonate, and aluminum hydroxide, where each contributes synergistically to enhance the floating and fire extinguishing properties of the composition. In one embodiment, the calcium bentonite clay and potassium bicarbonate provide the fire suppression composition with an adhesion property to surfaces. In one embodiment, the calcium bentonite clay and perlite enable fire suppression composition to float on the liquid medium. In anotherorney oc e : re .PCT / US24 / 44953 02 September 2024 (02 )9.2024) embodiment, the mineral component is present in a range from 10% to 20% by weight of the total composition; the liquid propellant is water and comprises 70% to 85% by weight of the total composition; and the plurality of additives are present in a range from 0.1% to 5% by weight of the total composition.

[0010] The foregoing has outlined rather broadly the more pertinent and important features of the present disclosure so that the detailed description of the invention that follows may be better understood and so that the present contribution to the art can be more fully appreciated. Additional features of the invention will be described hereinafter which form the subject of the claims of the invention. It should be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the conception and the disclosed specific methods and structures may be readily utilized as a basis for modifying or designing other structures for carrying out the same purposes of the present disclosure. It should be realized by those skilled in the art that such equivalent structures do not depart from the spirit and scope of the invention as set forth in the appended claims.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] Other features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent when the following detailed description is read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0012] FIG. 1 is a fire suppression composition within a fire extinguishing system according to an embodiment of the present invention;orney oc e : re .PCT / US24 / 44953 02 September 2024 (02 9.2024)

[0013] FIGS. 2A-C illustrates a method of encapsulation, thermal runaway prevention according to an embodiment of the present invention; and

[0014] FIG. 3 is a fire suppression composition according to an embodiment of the present invention.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

[0015] The following description is provided to enable any person skilled in the art to make and use the invention and sets forth the best modes contemplated by the inventor of carrying out his invention. Various modifications, however, will remain readily apparent to those skilled in the art, since the general principles of the present invention have been defined herein to specifically provide a fire suppression composition formulated for lithium batteries.

[0016] It is to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. The terms "a" or "an" are defined to mean "at least one." The term "plurality" is defined as two or more. The term "another," as used herein, is defined as at least a second or more. The terms "including" and / or "having," as used herein, are defined as comprising (i.e., open language). The term "providing" is defined herein in its broadest sense, e.g., bringing / coming into physical existence, making available, and / or supplying to someone or something, in whole or in multiple parts at once or over a period of time. These terms generally refer to a range of numbers that one of skill in the art would consider equivalent to the recited values (i.e., having the same function or result). In many instances theseorney oc e : re .PCT / US24 / 44953 02 September 2024 (02 9.2024) terms may include numbers that are rounded to the nearest significant figure.

[0017] FIG. 1 is a fire suppression composition formulated for lithium batteries within a fire extinguishing system 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention.Referring now to FIG. 1, the system includes a fire suppression tank 101 configured to hold a fire suppression composition 102. In one embodiment, the fire suppression tank 101 is a fire extinguisher tank as well known in the art. In alternative embodiments, the fire suppression tank may be within a vehicle, such as a firetruck, airplane, or similar. In embodiments wherein the system and tank is a fire extinguisher, a conduit or hose 103 is provided. The conduit or hose is configured to enable the fire suppression composition within the tank to dispense or release via a nozzle 104 positioned at the distal end of the hose. It should be understood that a similar configuration of components may also be provided if the fire suppression tank is within a vehicle, such as a firetruck, or the fire suppression composition may be dumped directly via a door-system as commonly used on fire suppression airplanes as well known the art. Further, the tank may be provided within a restaurant kitchen fire suppression system, or other commercial and residential applications. For simplicity, the disclosure illustrates the fire suppression system using a fire extinguisher, however should be construed as a non-limiting example. Depending on the tank, compressed air, such as CO2 or similar, may be used as a propellant of the fire suppression composition.

[0018] Still referring to FIG. 1, the fire suppression composition 102 comprises a mineral component, a liquid propellant, and a range of additives designed to enhance fire suppression capabilities. In one embodiment, the mineral component includes bothorney oc e : re .PCT / US24 / 44953 02 September 2024 (02 09.2024) vermiculite and perlite, known for contributing to the thermal stability and dispersion characteristics of the composition. Alternative embodiments may utilize expanded clay aggregate, mica, or diatomaceous earth as the mineral component, each offering unique properties that enhance the effectiveness of the composition in different fire suppression scenarios.

[0019] In one embodiment, the liquid propellant in this embodiment is water, which acts as the carrier for the other active ingredients, facilitating their distribution and application. In alternative embodiments, the liquid propellant may be glycerin, ethanol, or aqueous film forming foam (AFFF), each selected based on the desired properties such as viscosity, evaporation rate, and environmental impact.

[0020] The formulation is further enhanced by the addition of specific additives that increase its efficacy. These additives include a rheology modifier such as calcium bentonite clay, carbomer, cellulose gum, or pectin, each contributing to increased viscosity and the formation of a protective barrier over the fire. Additional thickening agents like xanthan gum or guar gum are incorporated to improve the suspension of solid particles within the mixture and enhance adhesion to burning materials. Furthermore, neutralizers such as potassium bicarbonate, aluminum hydroxide, or sodium bicarbonate are included; these act as fire extinguishing agents by releasing carbon dioxide upon heating, which helps to smother the fire effectively

[0021] It is an unexpected result that the combination or synergism of components leads to an improved and efficient adhesion to surfaces. For example, the addition of calcium bentonite clay and potassium bicarbonate enhances the composition's ability to adhere toorney oc e : re .PCT / US24 / 44953 02 September 2024 (02 9.2024) the surface of the object on fire, which is critical in lithium fires to prevent thermal runaway. Other effective combinations may include using carbomer or cellulose gum as rheology modifiers, or aluminum hydroxide and sodium bicarbonate as neutralizers, each adding their unique properties to enhance adhesion and effectiveness.

[0022] Further, in accordance with one aspect of the present invention, the fire suppression composition effectively addresses Class B fire scenarios, where oil floats atop water. This synergistic blend of components is uniquely formulated to maintain buoyancy when deployed, allowing it to float on the surface of the water. Alternative mineral components such as mica or diatomaceous earth, combined with perlite, have also shown potential in enabling the composition to float. This characteristic is crucial for effectively extinguishing fires involving lighter-than-water oils, which float on water surfaces. Traditional vermiculite formulations, in contrast, tend to sink beneath the oil layer, thereby allowing the oil to continue burning. The inclusion of other liquid propellants like glycerin or AFFF may further enhance the buoyancy and dispersion characteristics of this composition, ensuring that the fire suppression agents remain on the surface, directly targeting and extinguishing the fire by smothering the oil layer. This significant improvement over older versions underscores the innovative nature of this composition and its enhanced effectiveness in fire suppression scenarios.

[0023] In some embodiments, during use, the liquid propellant is configured to propel the other composition matter, for example the vermiculite and the additives a distance towards an object or substance on fire for extinguishing which will be discussed in further details below. Advantageously, the composition discussed herein is suitable andorney oc e : re .PCT / US24 / 44953 02 September 2024 (02 )9.2024) compatible with existing fire engine foam systems, fixed fire suppression systems, portable fire extinguishers (FIG. 1) making it a versatile option for various firefighting scenarios.

[0024] FIGS. 2A-C illustrates a method of encapsulation, thermal runaway prevention 200 using the fire suppression composition described herein according to an embodiment of the present invention. Referring now to FIGS. 2A-C, in an exemplary instance an object or substrate 201 is on fire 202. In the illustrated example the object is an electric vehicle containing at least one lithium ion battery on fire. The fire suppression composition described herein is especially suitable for battery fires, including lithium ion batteries, and other objects / materials subject to thermal runaway. More specifically, the fire suppression composition described herein is configured for extinguishing class A, B, and D fires. That said, the fire suppression composition may extinguish a fire on any object or substrate known in the art. For example, a variation of the fire suppression composition is configured for extinguishing class C fires.

[0025] FIG. 2A illustrates the initial release of the fire suppression composition 102 from within tank 101 towards the object 201 on fire 202. The nozzle and the liquid propellant aid in the vermiculite from reaching the fire at a distance 203. Advantageously, the nozzle is a smooth aerated nozzle or smooth jet nozzle configured to create a narrow stream allowing the user to extinguish from a safe distance. In one embodiment, the maximum distance is approximately 28-30 feet. It should be understood that the selected components of the fire suppression composition are adapted for use with the previously mentioned nozzle. A special nozzle is not required with the fire suppression composition described herein.orney oc e : re .PCT / US24 / 44953 02 September 2024 (02.( 9.2024)

[0026] In FIGS. 2B-C, the fire suppression composition, and particularly the vermiculite and additives binds 105 to the object and the vermiculite expands when subjected to the heat of the fire, which encapsulates 106 the object extinguishing the fire. In one embodiment, the encapsulation is via the vermiculite particles starting to bind and connect with adjacent vermiculite particles forming an expanding crust.

[0027] In one embodiment, the mixture and properties of the fire suppression composition is a foam, having a viscosity of approximately 2400 centipoise (CPS). This enables the foam to fill the cracks, crevices, etc. of the object ensuring thermal runaway is prevented and the fire is sufficiently extinguished. In some embodiments, the range of viscosity is between 800 - 2400 CPS. Upon contact with the fire, the liquid propellant or a portion of the liquid propellant evaporates leaving only the vermiculite and the additives.

[0028] In one embodiment, the vermiculite described herein is vermiculite ore wherein the vermiculite ore is Micaceous Hydrated Silicate Minerals or (Magnesium Aluminum Iron Silicate) with the empirical formula Mgl.8Fe2+0.9A14.3SiO10(OH)2»4(H2O). Vermiculite is an odorless, highly heat and flame resistant material and has no off-gassing or smoke, and is salt-free without corrosion concerns. The vermiculite may be thermally exfoliated, chemically exfoliated, or mechanically exfoliated.

[0029] Referring now to FIG. 3 a breakdown of the fire suppression composition 102 according to weight percentages is illustrated. In one embodiment, the fire suppression composition is mostly water, acting as a liquid propellant, as previously discussed. The remaining materials or the additive ingredients providing the synergistic effect, are the minority materials of the fire suppression composition.orney oc e : re .PCT / US24 / 44953 02 September 2024 (02. 9.2024)

[0030] While an embodiment of the fire suppression composition has demonstrated optimal synergistic effects with specific proportions, it is understood that the component ranges can be varied to suit different application needs or performance criteria. During testing, the most effective results were observed with a composition consisting of approximately 70% to 85% water as the liquid solvent, with mineral component percentages varying from 10% to 20% for vermiculite, and 2% to 6% for perlite. Alternative mineral components such as expanded clay aggregate, mica, or diatomaceous earth have also been tested, showing promising results in enhancing thermal stability and dispersion characteristics.

[0031] Additive proportions include calcium bentonite clay from 2% to 5%, xanthan gum from 0.1% to 0.3%, and potassium bicarbonate from 0.1% to 0.3%. Rheology modifiers such as carbomer or cellulose gum, and additional neutralizers like aluminum hydroxide or sodium bicarbonate, have been explored in ranges from 0.1% to 0.3%, providing variable viscosity and neutralizing effects that can be tailored to specific fire suppression needs. Other liquid propellants such as glycerin, ethanol, or aqueous film forming foam (AFFF) have been considered to adjust the evaporation rate and dispersion under different environmental conditions.

[0032] These variations are contemplated to accommodate different environmental conditions or specific fire suppression challenges, ensuring that the composition retains its efficacy across a range of scenarios while maintaining the crucial synergistic properties required for effective fire suppression

[0033] To reiterate the effectiveness of the present invention, the synergistic effectorney oc e : re .PCT / US24 / 44953 02 September 2024 (02.( 9.2024) between the mineral component and the at least one additive enhances the functional properties of the fire suppression composition by leveraging the unique characteristics of each component. This effect enables the composition to float on liquid mediums due to the combined buoyancy imparted by perlite and the stabilizing influence of calcium bentonite clay, which absorbs and retains water to increase viscosity without compromising the floating ability. Alternative minerals such as expanded clay aggregate, mica, or diatomaceous earth also contribute to buoyancy and thermal resistance, broadening the scope of applications.

[0034] Additionally, the presence of potassium bicarbonate enhances the fire suppression efficacy by reacting under heat to release carbon dioxide, which helps to smother fires more effectively. Alternatives like sodium bicarbonate or aluminum hydroxide can also be used to achieve similar fire-extinguishing effects through C02 release or endothermic reactions.

[0035] This synergistic combination, potentially enriched with other rheology modifiers such as carbomer or cellulose gum, results in a composition that not only floats on the surface of flammable liquids, thereby preventing the fire from spreading, but also adheres more effectively to surfaces. This provides a barrier that helps to suppress and extinguish fires rapidly and effectively, making it versatile enough for use in diverse environments and challenging fire scenarios

[0036] Although the invention has been described in considerable detail in language specific to structural features, it is to be understood that the invention defined in theorney oc e : re .PCT / US24 / 44953 02 September 2024 (02.( 9.2024) appended claims is not necessarily limited to the specific features described. Rather, the specific features are disclosed as exemplary preferred forms of implementing the claimed invention. Stated otherwise, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein, as well as the abstract, are for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. Therefore, while exemplary illustrative embodiments of the invention have been described, numerous variations and alternative embodiments will occur to those skilled in the art. Such variations and alternative embodiments are contemplated, and can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. For example, the fire suppression composition may be solidified into structure, mixed and bonded within a solid structure, injection-molded, etc. to create fire preventative properties for the solid structure. This includes hard materials as well as flexible materials, including but not limited to, building materials, such as wall, insulation, siding, roofing materials, pipes, and conduits, computer equipment, battery housing, smartphones, laptops, and their cases, as well as other consumer products, and other substances that have fire risks. Further, the fire suppression composition may be infused, mixed, or integrated into paints, resins, epoxies, coatings, sealants, and similar materials.

Claims

orney oc e : re .PCT / US24 / 44953 02 September 2024 (02. 9.2024)CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A fire suppression composition comprising: a mineral component comprising vermiculite and perlite; a liquid propellant; and at least one additive, wherein a synergistic effect between the mineral component and the at least one additive enables the fire suppression to float on a liquid medium to prevent or suppress fires on the liquid medium.

2. The fire suppression composition of claim 1, wherein the at least one additive includes at least one of: calcium bentonite clay, xanthan gum, potassium bicarbonate, carbomer, cellulose gum, sodium bicarbonate, and aluminum hydroxide.

3. The fire suppression composition of claim 2, wherein the at least one additive is a plurality of additives, each selected from a group consisting of: calcium bentonite clay, xanthan gum, potassium bicarbonate, carbomer, cellulose gum, sodium bicarbonate, and aluminum hydroxide, where each contributes synergistically to enhance the floating and fire extinguishing properties of the composition.

4. The fire suppression composition of claim 3, wherein the calcium bentonite clay and potassium bicarbonate provide the fire suppression composition with an adhesion propertyorney oc e : re .PCT / US24 / 44953 02 September 2024 (02.( 9.2024) to surfaces.

5. The fire suppression composition of claim 3, wherein the calcium bentonite clay and perlite enable fire suppression composition to float on the liquid medium.

6. The fire suppression composition of claim 3, wherein: the mineral component is present in a range from 10% to 20% by weight of the total composition; the liquid propellant is water and comprises 70% to 85% by weight of the total composition; and the plurality of additives are present in a range from 0.1% to 5% by weight of the total composition.

7. A fire suppression composition comprising: a mineral component comprising an insulator; a liquid solvent; and at least one additive selected from a group consisting of a rheology modifier, a thickening agent, and a neutralizer, wherein a synergistic effect between the mineral component and the at least one additive enables the composition to float on a liquid medium to prevent or suppress fires on the liquid medium.

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