Fraunhofer Institute for High-Speed Dynamics, Ernst-Mach-Institut, EMIProblems with lithium-ion batteries in airplanes are relatively rare. But when they do occur, they can have serious consequences – including fire or explosions.
As part of the “LOKI-PED” project (Lithium batteries in pOrtable electronic devices – risK of fIre and smoke), Fraunhofer EMI and Fraunhofer IBP are working together with Airbus.
The smoke and fire risks associated with lithium batteries in portable electronic devices (PEDs) in cabins and cockpits are being investigated and evaluated. The project is supported by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). It is funded by the European Union’s Horizon Europe research framework program.
Last year, the hazards posed by PEDs during thermal runaway were characterized. To this end, various PEDs such as laptops, tablets, smartphones and power tool batteries were tested and safely heated at the TEVLIB battery test center at Fraunhofer EMI in Efringen-Kirchen. Optical and thermal cameras as well as pressure, temperature and flow sensors were used to ensure maximum information and high-quality test results. This data is used to derive artificial smoke sources for our colleagues at Fraunhofer IBP. They carry out the experimental studies on smoke propagation in a realistically ventilated A321 cabin in the flight laboratory in Holzkirchen.
Simulation and real fire tests
Based on these validation tests, the Fraunhofer IBP zone model can be used to carry out numerical simulations of any aircraft cabin as well as parameter studies. This allows to estimate the effects of smoke propagation on individual passengers and the safe operation of the flight. In addition, fire tests are carried out with real PEDs during thermal runaway in a realistic cabin environment. Fraunhofer IBP and EMI are combining their expertise in the areas of cabin ventilation and battery fire for this purpose.
Final risk assessment
All results are incorporated into the subsequent risk assessment, which is carried out by the Hazard and Risk Analysis Group at Fraunhofer EMI. Experts from Airbus support all aspects of the project with their expertise in the areas of regulations, aircraft ventilation, battery fire and fire safety.
The project team is in close contact with members of the aviation industry. An exchange on the topic of thermal runaway of batteries in the cabin and cockpit took place as part of a panel discussion at the IATA World Safety & Operations Conference 2023.
