Airy Material Prevents EV Fire Spread
Aspen Aerogels is developing a highly effective thermal insulation material, aerogel, to prevent the spread of fires in electric vehicles (EVs) caused by lithium-ion battery thermal runaway. The U.S. Department of Energy has provided a $670.6 million loan to Aspen Aerogels to build a new factory in Georgia, aiming to enhance EV safety. Aerogel, which is 99% air, acts as a firewall by slowing down heat transfer, thus containing fires without preventing them. This technology is also applicable in other industries, including natural gas transport and space exploration.