The rising energy density and widespread use of lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) pose a growing safety challenge, marked by the potential for fires and explosions. Given the unique combustion characteristics of LIBs, the need for efficient and prompt fire suppression is paramount. Here we explore the mechanisms and characteristics of LIBs fires, emphasizing the critical design principles for effective fire-extinguishing agents and evaluating various agents, including gaseous, dry powders, water-based, aerosol-based, and composite-based fire-extinguishing agents, elucidating their mechanisms and effectiveness in suppressing LIBs fires. Noteworthy agents such as C6F12O and water-based solutions are highlighted for their superior extinguishing and cooling capabilities. Water-based fire-extinguishing agents show promise, exhibiting superior cooling capacity and anti-flash properties. Despite certain limitations, the review underscores the necessity of identifying an ideal fire-extinguishing agent that is thermally conductive, electrically insulating, cost-effective, non-toxic, residue-free, and capable of absorbing toxic gases. We conclude by discussing perspectives and outlooks, emphasizing the synergy between the ideal agent and innovative extinguishing strategies to ensure the high safety standards of current and future LIB-based technologies.

The vulnerability of LIBs to fire and explosion in harsh environments presents a significant obstacle to their widespread use. LIB fires are challenging to put out because of their combustion properties, which include high temperature increasing rates, jet flames, TR propagation, and the creation of poisonous and explosive gasses. Numerous fire-extinguishing chemicals have been investigated; each has its own set of restrictions. These include gaseous, dry powders, aerosols, and water-based agents. A comprehensive comparison of various fire-extinguishing agents highlights their distinct characteristics and effectiveness in addressing LIB fires. This study emphasizes the critical factors of insulation, toxicity, fire suppression speed, reactivity with fire sources, degradation capacity, and corrosion in selecting appropriate extinguishing agents. While offering certain advantages, current fire-extinguishing agents exhibit significant drawbacks such as poor cooling effects, electrical conductivity, toxicity, and the potential for re-ignition. Composite-based fire suppressants are a better option for mitigating LIB fires as they present benefits such as environmental friendliness, high heat dissipation rate, electric insulation, and prevention from re-ignition. Present and future research should be based on the design of highly efficient composite-based fire extinguishers that are cost-effective and practical for use in the real world. Alongside this, scientists should also work on the case and removal of the factors which result in fire generation. Moreover, developing a proper sensing system for LIB fires should be designed to take timely preventive measurements.