Toppan develops fire prevention film for lithium-ion batteries

Tokyo-based Toppan Printing says it has developed a fire extinguishing film that responds to heat by emitting aerosol particles. The new film is available starting in February and is targeted toward manufacturers of batteries and electrical appliances.

Toppan says it has made the product in response to the increased risk of fire-related accidents, “not only during use but also after disposal.” The waste and recycling industry has identified lithium-ion batteries as the source of numerous fires at material recovery facilities (MRFs), auto shredder yards and other recycling and waste workplaces.

The Japanese company says it has combined its “advanced coating technologies and transparent vapor-deposited GL Barrier film with a highly effective fire extinguishing agent from Yamato Protec Corp. to produce an adhesive film with outstanding long-term durability and workability.

“This film enables greater fire safety without any negative impact on people or the environment,” says Yoshimitsu Anamizu, managing executive officer of Toppan’s Living & Industry Division. “We intend to develop more products based on this technology to contribute to accident and disaster prevention and a safer, more sustainable society for everyone.”

Toppan says its fire extinguishing film is highly effective in extinguishing fires at an early stage or preventing their spread in the event of equipment problems or short circuits. Potential applications include attachment to the inside of lithium-ion battery cases, switchboards and power distribution equipment, outlet covers or waste containers at public facilities. The film uses no substances that pose a risk to humans or the environment and produces no harmful gases when it is activated, according to Toppan.

The film works by filling an enclosed space with fire extinguishing aerosol particles in response to the heat generated by a fire. The aerosol particles extinguish the fire through negative catalysis. “This makes it an effective solution for putting out fires promptly and containing their spread to prevent further damage,” the firm states.