Battery Safety

Abstract

This chapter provides a basic knowledge of the different battery chemistries currently used in space applications and an understanding of the hazards and their controls one can encounter. Cells and batteries need to be designed for performance and safety from the initial phases of any hardware development requiring stand-alone power. Although millions of batteries are available in the commercial market, not all are safe for use in a crewed space vehicle or on orbit environment. Batteries are a source of voltage and current. If not handled carefully, they can be, at the very least, a source of electrical shock or, in many cases, cause burns to personnel and damage to equipment. Batteries are also a toxic hazard, with the toxicity level varying with the battery chemistry, which can range from a skin irritant to one of a lethal nature. It is very important to understand that, when designing a battery, several factors need to be considered, including such factors as mass, volume, voltage, power, gravimetric and volumetric energy density, pulse capability, and safety. In general, the choice of battery chemistry and the manufacturer can be a preference if there are no restrictions on mass and volume. However, in many cases, specific battery chemistry is likely to be required because of the power requirements. It is recommended that the hardware owner work with the relevant battery experts from the initial phase of a project to design for optimum performance and safety.