Thermal and combustion characteristics of vent gases from lithium-ion battery thermal runaway: a comprehensive review
Mostafa M. E. H. Ali, Maryam Ghodrat
Abstract
Abstract Thermal runaway (TR) in lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) poses a major safety threat, primarily due to the release of flammable vent gases capable of ignition or explosion. While previous research has extensively reviewed TR mechanisms and general battery failure modes, the combustion behavior of these vented gases remains underexplored. This review addresses this critical gap by analyzing how selected factors—such as battery capacity, state of charge, battery chemistry, cell arrangement, safety vent design, and environmental conditions—influence various aspects of LIB vent gas behavior, including combustion stages, combustion metrics (e.g., heat release, temperature profiles, ignition delay, and laminar burning velocity), flammability, and explosion risks. Each parameter is discussed in the context of its reported effects, based on the depth and availability of existing literature. We also assess the accuracy and applicability of existing reaction kinetics models used to simulate vent gas combustion. Our findings reveal the highly parameter-sensitive nature of LIB fire behavior and provide actionable insights to improve fire prevention strategies, support safety regulations, and inform the development of safer battery technologies.