Published: April 12, 2024

Presto paves the way for a new safety standard for lithium-ion battery fires with highly efficient LB9 fire extinguisher

LB9 fire extinguisher
Presto Group, Europe's leading supplier of fire safety, first aid, and safety training, announces successful test results for the LB9 fire extinguisher, marking a significant advancement in lithium-ion battery management. The number of fires involving lithium-ion batteries have increased by 42 percent over the past five years, solely in Sweden, making the successful NTA 8133 result crucial in addressing this growing safety concern.

Presto's team of fire safety experts has, through extensive research and rigorous investigations into battery chemistry and fire behavior, identified an effective way to extinguish these fires. The solution involves cooling the battery cells to prevent thermal runaway (overheating) while simultaneously protecting surrounding materials.

"We embarked on a journey to better understand the complexity and dynamics associated with lithium-ion batteries, as traditional methods were ineffective. Our innovation team has worked tirelessly to develop an effective solution that addresses the unique challenges posed by these fires, and we are very proud of the fantastic results," says Göran Hult, R&D Manager at Presto Group.

The LB9 fire extinguisher is equipped with a high-efficiency extinguishing agent with low surface tension, allowing it to penetrate materials more effectively. By focusing on cooling the battery cells and preventing spread between cells, LB9 ensures complete extinguishment of lithium-ion battery fires. Its extended discharge time and ability to extinguish surrounding materials make LB9 an effective firefighting solution for various areas. Additionally, it is PFAS-free, further strengthening Presto's sustainability ambition and commitment to delivering on the company's vision; to save lives together.

One of the key results in the project was the recently conducted test according to the NTA 8133 standard performed by KIWA, a leading third-party certification organisation in Europe. This thorough testing process evaluated LB9's capacity to handle lithium-ion battery fires up to 600Wh, typically found in devices such as smartphones, laptops, and electric bikes. LB9 achieved exceptional results.

"We are thrilled to have achieved such outstanding results in the NTA 8133 testing. The LB9 fire extinguisher represents the culmination of several years of immense dedication and high innovation, and we are confident it will set a new standard for lithium-ion battery safety," says Filip Bjurström, CEO of Presto Group.

The LB9 fire extinguisher is available in Sweden, Norway, and Finland, with third-party certification, increasing reliability for all types of businesses and consumers.

For further details about Presto Group and the LB9 fire extinguisher, visit Presto's website. For technical inquiries, contact:

Göran Hult, R&D Manager Presto Group, +46 (0)70-914 75 63

...Our innovation team has worked tirelessly to develop an effective solution that addresses the unique challenges posed by these fires, and we are very proud of the fantastic results

Göran Hult, R&D Manager at Presto Group