#USA #Detroit #fire safety #Lithium Battery #Packaging Tech

Addressing Lithium-Ion Battery Fire Hazards in the Industry

At the recent Battery Show held in Detroit from October 12-15, 2026, Packaging and Crating Technologies (PACT®) took center stage, showing attendees its advanced fire-suppression products designed to combat the increasing hazards posed by lithium-ion battery fires. With the growing use of electric vehicles (EVs) and devices like e-bikes and e-scooters, concerns regarding fire safety have escalated, making this event crucial for manufacturers and industry experts alike.

Over 16,000 participants from the automotive, medical, and aerospace sectors gathered to explore solutions that can mitigate the risk of thermal runaway, a phenomenon that leads to catastrophic battery failures and fires. PACT showcased its renowned PACT® Thermo Shield™ paper wrap and the innovative PACT Lion-X™ extinguisher, highlighting their effectiveness in controlling and extinguishing lithium battery fires.

Rodger Mort, Chief Operating Officer at PACT, expressed concern over the rising incidents of lithium-ion battery fires. These fires can be exceedingly challenging to extinguish, often lasting for extended periods while releasing toxic gases. He emphasized that PACT's innovations are essential for protecting first responders and the public from potentially devastating events.

Key Products Featured

PACT® Thermo Shield™

The Thermo Shield™ is a lightweight, paper-based material that prevents thermal runaway by wrapping individual lithium-ion battery cells in modules. It utilizes a unique four-layer ink structure that begins to react at temperatures exceeding 200°F, absorbing heat and releasing moisture in the process. This creates a moisture vapor cloud that suppresses combustion by limiting oxygen access, dramatically reducing the risk of explosive reactions.

Mort highlighted the ability of Thermo Shield™ to maintain internal battery temperatures below the critical threshold of 780°C, thereby minimizing the conditions under which dangerous reactions, such as chlorine acid formation, could occur. Validated by extensive testing from reputable institutions, Thermo Shield™ has proven to be an effective barrier against catastrophic battery failures.

TR Sleeve™

In response to the rapid proliferation of e-mobility devices, PACT also introduced the TR Sleeve™, a protective solution designed specifically for the battery packs used in e-bikes and other electric devices. The TR Sleeve™ incorporates the same fire-resistant paper technology as Thermo Shield™, ensuring that thermal runaway risks are contained across battery cells, even with temperatures soaring up to 1,382°F.

Notable features of the TR Sleeve™ include its slim design, adding only .009 inches to the battery cell diameter while ensuring maximum energy density. It eliminates the need for potting materials that complicate recycling, contributing to an eco-friendly and efficient design philosophy. Testing by independent laboratories confirmed that the TR Sleeve™ effectively prevents thermal runaway without damaging the outer container or releasing harmful gases.

The Bigger Picture

PACT's advancements are not just innovative; they represent a significant step towards enhanced public safety amid an increasing reliance on lithium-ion technology. They aim to address fire hazards that can arise from numerous devices, including electric scooters, bikes, and even electric cars, which have become commonplace items in urban settings.

Mort proudly stated, "We are committed to providing innovative safety solutions that protect both people and property. As the use of lithium batteries grows, our products will be vital in preventing serious incidents across the board."

To further investigate PACT's extensive product lineup and witness live demonstrations, interested parties are encouraged to visit PACT's official website. This innovative company continues to push the boundaries of safety and sustainability in packaging, potentially defining the future of fire safety in the lithium battery market.