Users of lithium-ion batteries need to be aware of both. A punctured lithium-ion battery can lead to a serious fire in some cases. Potent electrolytes can leak through the hole, often creating chemical reactions that release heat. This heat can then damage other battery cells, creating a chain reaction of damage.
The proper course of action following a lithium-ion battery puncture will depend on which type of battery you have. If you puncture a pouch or prismatic lithium-ion battery, act fast. You must get away immediately, as these types are liable to catch fire quickly. Alert the fire department if possible.
Pouch cells are the most prone to puncture. In these batteries, the anodes, cathodes, and other battery components rest in a flexible foil pouch. Naturally, this provides them relatively little protection against puncture. Prismatic lithium-ion cells offer an additional layer of protection.
One type of lithium-ion battery that has gained popularity in recent years is the lithium iron phosphate battery (LiFePO4 battery), also known as the LFP battery. This type of battery uses lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) as the cathode material and a graphitic carbon electrode with a metallic backing as the anode.
There are three primary types of LiFePO4 lithium-ion battery construction: cylindrical, prismatic, and pouch cells. Pouch cells are the most prone to puncture. In these batteries, the anodes, cathodes, and other battery components rest in a flexible foil pouch. Naturally, this provides them relatively little protection against puncture.
The lithium chemistry used and their construction determines puncture resistance. There are 6 main types of lithium-ion batteries, of which lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) is considered one of the safest. This is due to its low resistance and high thermal runaway threshold, it is inherently safe and highly stable.