Pouch Cell Fire-Extinguishing Case for Thermal Runaway Suppression
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional fire extinguishing devices in secondary batteries are inefficient in terms of space and energy density, as they require additional space and reduce the energy storage capacity due to their design, and they are difficult to control thermal runaway effectively.
Innovation Solution
A pouch-type secondary battery with a fire extinguishing device integrated into the external surface of the pouch case, using a core-shell particle or sealed envelope-type film that sprays a fire extinguishing agent when the temperature exceeds a reference point, thereby extinguishing flames without requiring additional space or reducing energy density.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional fire extinguishing equipment is installed in the secondary battery, then fire safety is improved, but space efficiency and energy density are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The fire extinguishing device is merged with the pouch case structure itself. The pouch case includes a fire extinguishing chamber formed by internal partitions, and the fire extinguishing agent is stored within this integrated structure rather than as a separate component. This merging allows the fire safety function to be achieved without adding external equipment that would reduce space efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The fire extinguishing chamber and agent storage are nested within the existing pouch case structure. The partition walls create internal chambers that are nested within the overall battery envelope, utilizing otherwise wasted space. This nesting approach allows the fire suppression system to be contained within the existing footprint without requiring additional external space.
2Reliability
If conventional fire extinguishing equipment is installed in the secondary battery, then fire safety is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The pouch case serves multiple functions: it contains the electrode assembly, provides structural support, and simultaneously houses the fire extinguishing chamber and agent storage. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate fire suppression equipment, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining fire safety capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The fire extinguishing system operates automatically through temperature-responsive seals that open when thermal runaway occurs, allowing the system to self-activate without external control circuits or complex monitoring systems. The pouch case structure itself provides the activation mechanism through thermal expansion and seal failure at predetermined temperatures.
3Reliability
If current is cut off to prevent thermal runaway, then fire safety is improved, but thermal runaway control becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces electrical control mechanisms with a mechanical/thermal response system. Temperature-responsive seals physically open at predetermined temperatures to release the fire extinguishing agent, eliminating the need for electrical circuits, sensors, or control systems that would be required to detect and respond to thermal runaway electrically.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The fire extinguishing device effectively suppresses flames at an early stage of ignition, enhancing battery safety, maximizing space efficiency, and maintaining high energy density by automatically spraying the extinguishing agent without needing an additional circuit.
Implementation Method 1
The shell may melt and may spray the fire extinguishing agent at the temperature greater than or equal to the reference point temperature
Implementation Method 2
The fire extinguishing device may spray a fire extinguishing agent at a temperature greater than or equal to a reference point temperature
Data Source
AI summary
A pouch-type secondary battery comprises an electrode assembly, and a pouch case surrounding the electrode assembly. At least three surfaces, among four surfaces of a side surface in a thickness direction of the electrode assembly, include a sealed portion. An electrode lead is drawn out from a sealed portion of at least one of the three sealed portions. The pouch-type secondary battery includes a fire extinguishing device on an external surface of the pouch case.