Oct 27 2016: Samsung Isn't the Only One with Lithium Ion Battery Problems. Just Ask NASA

Back in Oct 27 2016: Samsung Isn't the Only One with Lithium Ion Battery Problems. Just Ask NASA

A lithium-ion battery failure caused a NASA robot to explode during testing. The battery was damaged, leading to overcharging of individual cells and resulting in the explosion. While lithium-ion batteries are commonly used in space applications, NASA’s flight projects undergo extensive testing and oversight to prevent such failures.

However, for non-flight projects like the exploded robot, the testing protocols are less rigorous. This incident highlights the need for NASA to improve and update its protocols to ensure the safety of ground-based projects.

Fast forward to Jul 26 2023: Batteries in E-Bikes and Other Devices Are Sparking Fires in San Francisco

Two people jumped out of a San Francisco apartment window to escape a fire caused by an overheated e-scooter battery. This was the 24th fire in the city this year linked to rechargeable batteries. Battery-related fires have been increasing in San Francisco due to the proliferation of e-bikes and e-scooters, with 202 battery fires reported since 2017.

While most have occurred at homeless encampments, the fires have also damaged buildings. New York City has also experienced fires caused by rechargeable batteries, leading them to ban the sale of e-bikes and similar devices that do not meet safety standards.

How can cities effectively address the increasing number of battery-related fires caused by e-bikes and e-scooters?