WHAT IS A LITHIUM-ION BATTERY?
A Li-ion battery, or Li-ion accumulator, consists of two metal electrodes (cathode and anode) and a liquid electrolyte that ensures ion exchange in the system. During discharge (use) of the battery, ions flow from the anode to the cathode. During charging, the reverse occurs. These two electrodes are insulated by the separator, which prevents a short-circuit.
WHAT ARE THE DANGERS ASSOCIATED WITH THESE BATTERIES?
Of the 50 potential accident scenarios identified by INERIS (Institut National de l'Environnement Industriel et des Risques) during the various stages of the battery life cycle, 12 were considered critical. They concern in particular the storage, recharging and use stages. The most problematic result of these risks concerns battery fire. This is a major risk because the fire caused by lithium-ion batteries cannot be extinguished by conventional means, as the battery itself generates the oxygen molecules and heat needed for combustion. It can therefore only be extinguished with the help of special powders, all in a confined environment (at the risk of the powder losing its effectiveness).
HOW THESE BATTERY FIRES START
Feedback from experience and analyses by specialist bodies have identified three major risks associated with batteries: leakage of flammable electrolyte; escape of gas, smoke, sparks and flames; and explosions.These three major risks are exacerbated by various faults, mainly linked to incorrect use or a fault in the battery itself.
These three main causes underline the importance of proper handling and storage of batteries to prevent risks.

STANDARDISATION
There are as yet no specific standards relating to the storage of lithium batteries. However, TRIONYX wants to anticipate this standardisation and has designed fire-resistant cabinets that meet strict standards.

Fire-stop construction (from the inside out) certified EI 180 min type A1, in accordance with standard NF EN 13501-2.

Fire resistance (from outside to inside) approved for 90 min, in accordance with EN 14470-1 & EN 1363-1.
EN 14470-1: This standard, which came into force in October 2004 and was amended in 2023, concerns the storage of flammable products. It applies to cabinets with an internal volume of 2 m3 or less.
FM 6050 (FACTORY MUTUAL) : International insurance and accrediting body for fire resistant equipment (through UL) and advising companies. FM 6050 approval means 10 minutes fire resistance for safety cabinets according to the NFPA 251-1969 temperature curve.
NF EN 16121+A1: This standard specifies the requirements for determining the safety, strength, durability and stability of all types of storage furniture for collective use.
NF EN 13501-2: This standard classifies the fire resistance of construction elements (walls, floors, doors, etc.) according to their performance in fire tests. The classification uses letters (R for mechanical resistance, E for fire resistance, I for thermal insulation, etc.) followed by a duration in minutes (15 to 360).
NF C 15-100: This standard sets out the requirements for the design, construction and maintenance of low-voltage electrical installations in France (less than 1000 volts AC). The scope of NF C 15-100 covers new installations as well as those that have been completely renovated.