It will be based on Barnbrook and Flair’s E-bag system, which allows batteries or devices such as mobile phones, laptops and e-cigarettes, to be isolated and dealt with if overheating, smoking or on fire.
Nanotechnology has been used to create the E-bag’s temperature sensitive smart fabric which adapts to “completely smother” the battery or hardware once it has been placed inside – extinguishing flames or preventing ignition.
Now the E-bag – also fitted with Barnbrook’s BlueCube tracking and monitoring sensors – is being adapted for trials at TJ Waste and Recycling’s MRF in Tipner, Portsmouth.
It comes after a fire at the centre on 6 July, involving 117 tonnes of material, which was believed to have been sparked by a lithium-ion battery.
‘First trial of its kind’
According to the latest figures from the British Safety Council, 10 people have died and 190 people have been injured from fires linked to lithium-ion batteries since 2020.
Andrew Barnett, managing director of Barnbrook Systems, said: “We are looking forward to working with TJ Waste & Recycling in the UK’s first trial of its kind using our E-bag technology which has the potential to save lives and money while supporting business continuity and enhancing community confidence.”
John Gosling, managing director of the TJ Group, said: “There can be safety issues with lithium-ion batteries, caused when the battery’s temperature rises uncontrollably in a dangerous process known as thermal runaway, and any measures to remove risks from fires and explosions are very much welcomed.”
The idea is for operatives sifting materials at TJ Waste & Recycling to have purpose-made, portable bags in which they can place suspect or hazardous devices. Once the bag is zipped up, it can be safely taken outside for processing.
There will also be a large sack into which bigger batteries or devices can be placed before it is lifted by forklift and removed by a disposal company.
If you want to find out more about fire safety and prevention, make sure you attend the Fire Prevention and Control Conference 2024 in Birmingham on 13th November 2024. See the full agenda and book tickets here.
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