Lithium storage

PGS 37-2 is the guideline for the storage of lithium-containing energy carriers. The guideline helps companies to manage the risks of lithium-ion batteries and accumulators. PGS 37-2 distinguishes between new, used, damaged, repaired, refurbished, packaged and unpackaged batteries, among other things.

PGS 37-1 is about energy storage systems, also known as ESSs. These are large battery systems that store electricity to be able to supply it back later. PGS 37-2 is about the storage of lithium-containing energy carriers themselves, such as loose accumulators, battery packs or batteries incorporated into products. For a storage container containing lithium-ion batteries, PGS 37-2 is relevant.

That depends on the type of lithium-containing energy carrier, the condition of the batteries and the storage facility. PGS 37-2 has lower limits that determine when the guideline applies. The correct storage must be assessed per situation. Ask KOK Milieuopslagsystemen for advice.

Store a lithium battery preferably cool, dry and protected against direct sunlight, heat, moisture, impact and shocks. Prevent batteries from becoming completely flat or remaining fully charged for long periods, unless the manufacturer advises otherwise. Regularly check batteries for damage, deformation, leakage, odour or heat generation. Damaged or suspect batteries should not be stored with ordinary batteries.

Lithium-ion batteries can become unstable due to damage, overcharging, deep discharge, extreme temperatures, or manufacturing defects. In the worst case, a thermal runaway can occur: a chain reaction in which large amounts of heat, smoke, and toxic gases are released. Proper lithium storage helps to mitigate these risks and detect incidents more quickly.

Thermal runaway is an uncontrolled reaction in a battery cell where the temperature rises rapidly. This can lead to smoke emission, fire, risk of explosion and the release of toxic substances. Because thermal runaway is difficult to stop, the emphasis in lithium storage is on prevention, detection, compartmentalisation and consequence management.

Not always. PGS 37-2 distinguishes between different types and statuses of batteries, such as new, used, refurbished, damaged, repaired, packaged and unpacked. Not all batteries may simply be stored together. Therefore, it must be determined in advance which batteries are present and which storage layout suits them.

Damaged or defective lithium batteries require extra caution. They carry a higher risk of short-circuiting, heat generation or thermal runaway. Therefore, store damaged batteries separately, in a controlled manner and in a suitable facility. Do not simply mix them with new or undamaged batteries.

A lithium cabinet is suitable for smaller quantities of batteries or accumulators and can only be placed indoors. A lithium container or fire compartment is intended for larger quantities or situations where more space, compartmentalisation and additional safety features are required. The choice depends on the quantity, the type of batteries and the risk profile.

That depends on the design of the storage facility. Some lithium cabinets or storage solutions are equipped with charging points, detection, ventilation and alarms. Charging brings additional risks, because overcharging or technical defects can cause an incident. Therefore, the storage facility must be suitable for both charging and storage.

Important facilities include fire-resistant compartmentalisation, smoke detection, temperature detection, gas detection, ventilation, alarms and an appropriate extinguishing or suppression system. Which facilities are required depends on the batteries, the quantity, the storage location and the risk assessment.

A fire compartment is a demarcated storage area that helps to limit the consequences of fire. In the case of lithium storage, a fire compartment can be used to store batteries in a controlled and segregated manner. KOK Milieuopslagsystemen builds fire compartments for lithium-containing energy carriers within the application of PGS 37-2.

Yes, lithium storage can be located indoors if the storage facility and location are suitable. In doing so, consideration must be given to fire safety, compartmentation, ventilation, accessibility, escape routes, detection and any distance requirements. The correct implementation depends on the batteries and the on-site situation.

Yes, lithium storage can also be placed outdoors. Outdoor placement can be practical due to accessibility, distance from buildings and risk management. However, the storage facility must be suitable for weather conditions, foundations, security, ventilation and the requirements that apply to the stored batteries.

Yes, KOK Milieuopslagsystemen collaborates on the safe storage of lithium-based energy carriers in accordance with PGS 37-2. This involves looking at the batteries, quantities, location, compartmentalisation and required safety features, resulting in a storage solution tailored to the risks in your situation.