NITIBO and Tokyo Fire Department Join Forces for Lithium-Ion Battery Fire Safety

NITIBO and Tokyo Fire Department Collaborate on Fire Safety

NITIBO Inc., based in Shinagawa, Tokyo, has secured a partnership with the Tokyo Fire Department to address an emerging crisis related to lithium-ion battery (LiB) fires. Chosen as part of the Tokyo Fire Department's INNOVATION PROJECT, this collaboration aims to enhance fire response strategies over a two-year research and development period.

Background of the Tokyo Fire Department INNOVATION PROJECT

The rapid adoption of lithium-ion batteries across various devices has led to an alarming increase in fire incidents attributed to this technology. Recognizing the urgency of addressing these fires, the Tokyo Fire Department believes that accumulating shared knowledge and conducting research with private enterprises is crucial for effective public communication and the deployment of advanced firefighting agents and equipment.

Overview of NITIBO's Research and Development Plans

Research Focus

NITIBO's initiative centers on the development of a unique firefighting agent known as AVD (Active Vapor Dispersion) to combat LiB fires. This agent is designed to address three critical aspects simultaneously: suppressing thermal runaway, preventing re-ignition, and containing the fire. Traditional firefighting systems often struggle under these circumstances, making this innovative approach essential.

AVD is a dispersal liquid made from vermiculite, a natural mineral. When applied, it closely adheres to the fire source, efficiently absorbing heat and cooling the area. Moreover, the fine particles of vermiculite cover the surface of combustible materials, forming a strong barrier that blocks oxygen, thus preventing re-ignition. This environmentally friendly solution has received numerous certifications internationally.

Development of New Firefighting Equipment

1. Public Transport and Facility Equipment: NITIBO plans to create firefighting tools tailored for public transport systems and businesses dealing with lithium-ion batteries. These devices will allow for the deployment of the AVD agent from a safe distance in case of fire incidents within large facilities.
2. Firefighter Equipment: Additionally, specialized equipment for firefighters is in the works to bolster their operational capabilities during lithium-ion battery emergencies.

The development phase will also explore the synergistic effects when combining AVD with fire blankets, aiming for improvements in the overall effectiveness of firefighting methodologies.

Collaboration with the Tokyo Fire Department

In collaboration with the Tokyo Fire Department, NITIBO will utilize their experimental facilities to conduct combustion tests based on the capacity of lithium-ion batteries. These tests will evaluate the effectiveness of the AVD agent and examine factors such as temperature dynamics and re-ignition prevention.

Firefighters' expert knowledge will guide NITIBO in prototype development and testing, allowing iterative improvements based on real-world conditions and feedback from fire response teams. This hands-on approach aims to refine firefighting equipment and strategize deployment models suitable for locations managing lithium-ion batteries.

NITIBO's Commitment

Through this comprehensive research and development initiative, NITIBO intends to share the data and insights gleaned from these efforts with the Tokyo Fire Department and fire agencies across Japan. The ultimate goal is to help implement effective fire safety solutions for public transport and institutions handling lithium-ion products, thereby mitigating the risks and damages associated with these fires.

NITIBO is dedicated to minimizing the risks of lithium-ion battery fires. Through innovation and collaboration, they aim to contribute significantly to public safety and community welfare.

Company Overview

- Company Name: NITIBO Inc.
- Location: 1-9-5 Higashi Gotanda, Shinagawa, Tokyo
- CEO: Hiroyuki Sugiyama
- Business Activity: Development, design, construction, and maintenance of disaster prevention equipment
- Website: NITIBO Official Site