Finnish recycling group Kuusakoski and the gas analytics technology company Olfactomics are introducing a sensor system designed to alert facility operators to early indicators of battery ignition risk, giving them time to protect their property and personnel. Their "Smart Battery Sensor" is intended to identify gases released by damaged lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) well before heat or smoke become detectable. According to the companies, the system can identify potential failure events up to 90 minutes before ignition.
Gas detection rather than heat
"The composition of released gases varies depending on the battery chemistry, but our algorithm identifies critical failure before significant heat, smoke or fire," Antti Roine, chief executive of Olfactomics, explained. "Until now, detection has largely relied on recognising heat or smoke, which leaves far less time to react," he said.
The sensor system has been designed to recognise chemical patterns associated with battery failure before temperatures rise significantly. A patent-pending sensor and chemical analysis algorithm analyses airborne gaseous compounds. The system is sensitive to a broad range of eluents and oxidative compounds, but relies primarily on the detection of the electrolyte components ethylene carbonate (EC) and dimethyl carbonate (DMC), Kuusakoski said.
Similar in size to conventional smoke detectors, the units are connected to a cloud-based monitoring platform that provides real-time data and alarm notifications. When the system is triggered, alerts can be sent through business messaging systems such as Microsoft Teams or Slack, as well as via SMS or voice call.
Potential applications across several sectors
In addition to their use in the recycling industry, Kuusakoski is exploring other possible applications and has received enquiries about potential uses in shipping containers or in car park monitoring, according to Tapio Kuusakoski, business director, WEEE at Kuusakoski Oy. However, while the sensor can operate in mobile containers, the company currently does not recommend use in cross-border operations due to potential problems with network transitions.
The Smart Battery Sensor systems are being offered through a service model that includes the device, installation and access to the monitoring platform, with prices starting at €88 per month.
