Analysis of the Effects of Overcharging Lithium Ion Cells with Graphite Anode: Efficiency of Protection Devices Integrated Into the Cells

Lithium ion batteries are currently the main technology for storing energy in electric vehicles thanks to their high power density and energy density. Among the many challenges, safety related aspects must be faced. The thermal runaway caused by overcharge is one of the main weak points to be addressed to ensure a proper level of safety, necessary for the diffusion of this technology.Nowadays, many cells have integrated protection devices that reduce the risk of thermal runaway triggered by overcharging. In this study, the efficiency of devices used to prevent the thermal runaway, caused by overcharging cylindrical 18650 lithium-ion cells with graphite anode, is evaluated. Experimental tests were carried out at different ambient temperatures and overcharge currents.In all the cases the intervention of the Current Interrupt Device avoids the thermal runaway occurrence, preventing the intervention of the others protection devices such as the Positive Temperature Coefficient device and the safety vent.