Comparative Overview of Methods for the Detection of Airborne Electrolyte Components Released from Lithium‐Ion Batteries

Abstract

Lithium‐ion battery leakage indicates battery malfunction. In an electric vehicle, the evolving vapors can pose a risk to the health of the passengers. Early detection of a leakage reduces this risk and can prevent further damage. In this review, gas detection techniques such as detector tubes, portable gas chromatography, infrared spectroscopy, gas sensors, and laser spectroscopy are discussed in relation to their capacity of detecting airborne compounds coming from the evaporation of a leaked battery electrolyte. Possible scenarios in which battery leakage can occur are introduced that are partially based on the Global Technical Regulation on Electric Vehicle Safety: parked, driving, charging, postcrash (accident), rescue, and stationary application. The applicability for a potential early warning system using the discussed gas detection techniques is assessed and because no off‐the‐shelf solution could be found overlaps of the capabilities of the techniques with the needs of each scenario are identified and opportunities for further development are pointed out.