Introducing LITH EX: Japan's First Lithium-Ion Battery Fire Suppression Device

Introduction of LITH EX

In an innovative move to address the rising incidents of lithium-ion battery (LiB) fires in Japan, Nichibou Co., based in Shinagawa, Tokyo, will launch LITH EX, the country's first specialized fire suppressor for such fires, starting June 2026. With an established track record internationally, Nichibou is the exclusive distributor of AVD products in Japan.

The Growing Concerns of Lithium-Ion Battery Fires

With the uptick in usage of smartphones, mobile batteries, vacuum cleaners, and electric bicycles, incidents of fires caused by LiB have surged alarmingly. According to the Fire and Disaster Management Agency, there were 1,297 reported incidents of LiB fires in just one year, highlighting an urgent need for specialized fire suppression technology. Unlike conventional fires, LiB fires tend to result in a phenomenon known as “thermal runaway,” where a battery overheats, leading to uncontrollable reactions, releasing toxic and flammable gases, and resulting in explosions.

Historically, standard fire extinguishers have struggled to effectively control LiB fires, increasing the demand for dedicated solutions to safely manage these hazardous situations.

Key Features of LITH EX

LITH EX utilizes an innovative fire extinguishing solution from the UK, specifically designed for high-intensity LiB fires. It combines three essential features that work synergistically, providing a formidable capability to suppress LiB fires effectively:

1. Rapid Cooling to Prevent Temperature Surge
The AVD extinguishing agent, released in a mist form, rapidly cools the burning material by utilizing the heat of vaporization as the moisture evaporates. This rapid cooling is crucial in preventing the temperature from rising to levels that could trigger thermal runaway.

2. Formation of a Non-Combustible Barrier
After the moisture evaporates, the AVD will create a ceramic-like, non-combustible barrier made from naturally occurring vermiculite crystals. This barrier effectively shields the burning material from heat and oxygen, significantly reducing the chances of rekindling and the emission of combustible gases.

3. Environmentally Friendly Components
The composition of the extinguishing agent is primarily made from natural minerals and water, leading to a low environmental impact. Importantly, LITH EX does not contain PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), ensuring a safer choice for both humans and the environment.

Ideal Applications for LITH EX

LITH EX is designed for various applications, making it suitable for a wide range of devices, such as:

- Smartphones
- Mobile batteries
- Laptops
- Cordless vacuum cleaners
- Power tools
- Electric bicycles
- Electric scooters
- Drones

Future Prospects

Nichibou is committed to contributing to a safer living environment. We aim to offer a diverse lineup of suppression devices that cater to various battery types and sizes. Additionally, combining LITH EX with AVD fire blankets will enhance fire suppression methods, providing consumers with a more reliable safety measure against LiB fires.

Company Overview: Nichibou Co.

Founded and run by Hiroyuki Sugiyama, Nichibou Co. specializes in the development, design, construction, and maintenance of disaster prevention equipment.

- Location: 1-9-5 Higashi Gotanda, Shinagawa, Tokyo
- Website: www.nitibou.co.jp
- Collaborators: Machikado Disaster Prevention Lab, led by Eiki Sato (mb-l.net)