Furthermore, the NFPA reports that (based on limited information) flooded lead-acid batteries are less prone to thermal runaways than valve-regulated lead-acid batteries (VRLA). That’s because the liquid solution in flooded batteries can inhibit fire better than the materials inside VRLA batteries can. What Causes a Lead-Acid Battery to Explode?
Overall, the National Fire Protection Association says that lead-acid batteries present a low fire hazard. Furthermore, the NFPA reports that (based on limited information) flooded lead-acid batteries are less prone to thermal runaways than valve-regulated lead-acid batteries (VRLA).
Vented lead acid: This group of batteries is “open” and allows gas to escape without any positive pressure building up in the cells. This type can be topped up, thus they present tolerance to high temperatures and over-charging. The free electrolyte is also responsible for the facilitation of the battery’s cooling.
Battery acid itself is not flammable. But the hydrogen gases that it emits during charging are flammable and highly explosive at high concentrations. Can Battery Acid Start a Fire? Yes, lead-acid battery fires are possible – though not because of the battery acid itself.
Should these recommendations be adopted by EU Member States, the industry could face a timeline of approximately 45 months to phase out lead-acid batteries, including an 18-month sunset period following a formal 27-month compliance window. Future Outlook and Potential Exemptions The outlook for lead-acid batteries remains nuanced.
However, the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) has recommended further scrutiny of substances used in lead-acid batteries. While lead is currently exempt from REACH restrictions, these recommendations indicate potential future bans on certain chemicals integral to lead-acid battery production.