Diagnosis and Management of Thermal Runaway Factors in Commercial LiFePO4 LIBs

It is of paramount importance to gain a comprehensive understanding of the internal and external factors contributing to thermal runaway in commercial LiFePO 4 lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) in order to ensure the safe operation of the battery and to control any potential risks. In this work, we investigate the progression of internal temperature and cycle performance of commercial LiFePO 4 LIBs when they are subjected to a range of extreme operational conditions, including short circuits, overcharging, punctures, and external pressure. A simulation has been employed to elucidate the mechanism of thermal runaway induced by continuous high temperatures. The findings indicate that, while harsh operating environments can elevate internal battery temperatures and reduce performance, they are not the fundamental cause of thermal runaway. Instead, it is the continuous exposure to high temperatures above a critical threshold that serve as the primary trigger. Therefore, the most effective method of preventing heat-related loss of control in batteries is to control the ambient temperature and avoid prolonged exposure to high temperature. Furthermore, it is imperative to implement comprehensive emergency protocols for high-temperature scenarios and to take proactive measures in extreme environments to prevent safety incidents resulting from battery thermal runaway. This study offers insights into exploring the root causes of thermal runaway, investigating both internal and external factors with the aim of enhancing safe and stable operation within large-scale LiFePO 4 LIBs energy storage systems. It contributes towards revealing the complex multi-dimensional evolution mechanism and coupling effects within LiFePO 4 -based LIBs energy storage systems throughout their lifecycle.