SECTION 5. FIRE-FIGHTING MEASURES
5.1 Extinguishing media
Extinguisher | Recommended in: | Effectiveness |
Standard extinguisher according to the source of fire | Presence of external fire surrounding the battery | Undetermined |
Fire extinguisher class D, CO2, Halogenated Hydrocarbons, Water in large amount | Emission of smoke and small flames from the battery | Medium, extinguish the fire and reduce time to reach inert state of the battery |
Fire extinguisher class D, CO2, Dry powder, sodium carbonate | Very unlikely event of leakage of metallic sodium outside the battery** | High, neutralization |
5.2 Special hazards arising from the substance or mixture
Hazard: When a severe occurrence take place, for instance an internal short circuit of the battery, the solid ceramic electrolyte fails and the metallic sodium inside the cells reacts internally with the cathode material, with heat development and no fire and or explosion
Only a disrupting mechanical damage with generation of a large breach in the outer steel container and simultaneously rupture of some cell cases can provide chances for a leak of a small amount of metallic sodium, directly exposed to the environment, and even the development of some flames, but no risk of explosion.
Such mechanical damages can be excluded during normal use.
5.3. Advice for firefighters
Use suitable Personal Protective Equipment (breathing apparatus, safety hat, safety spectacles, fireproof suit, gloves and boots).
Additional prescription
Operate in accordance with the Internal Emergency Plan. Remove all ignition sources.