Honeywell’s Battery Safety Electrolyte Detector (BES LITE) sensor has won a “Best of Sensors” award from Questex’s Sensors Converge and Fierce Electronics. These awards recognize cutting-edge technologies, pioneering industry leaders, and innovative companies in the sensing and electronics space.
BES LITE was recognized in the Best Power & Sustainability Solution category. The sensor is an innovative safety solution that is becoming increasingly important as use of lithium-ion batteries grows around the world.
Today, lithium-ion batteries are in everything from electric cars and trucks to battery energy storage systems, industrial equipment, two-wheel and three-wheel scooters and electric lawnmowers. As electrification demand increases, there is increased risk of the phenomenon “thermal runaway,” where a defective battery cell can gradually break down, resulting in temperature increase, pressure build up within the cell, release of toxic gases and, potentially, a battery fire.
The BES LITE sensor is designed to selectively detect battery electrolyte vapor that is typically released in the early phase of thermal runaway, alerting the Battery Management System about imminent danger. By identifying potential issues early, users can respond promptly to hazards, improving safety and reducing the risk of significant incidents like a fire or explosion.
BES LITE, using patented polymer sensing material, is an industry-first electrochemical sensor. It can operate with very low power requirements, enabling extended battery operation. It also requires no oxygen to operate, extending its application into previously unavailable areas. BES LITE is unique in that it does not respond to any gases other than battery electrolyte vapors, reducing the risk of false alarms.
The sensor’s small footprint enables installation in tight spaces like portable battery modules. Its small size and light weight also mean it can be used in urban air mobility (electric taxis), unmanned aerial vehicles like drones, as well as in medical equipment, two- and three-wheel electric scooters or bikes and light battery-operated industrial machinery.
“This award serves as a testament to the brilliant and dedicated minds behind the development and commercialization of the BES LITE sensing solution,” said Ajibola Fowowe, Director of Honeywell Sensing Solutions’ electrification vertical. “At Honeywell, we are dedicated to advancing global electrification and enabling the safe, reliable and scalable use of lithium-ion batteries across industries.”
BES LITE is part of Honeywell’s broader portfolio of battery safety solutions for thermal runaway detection, which includes sensors for larger electric vehicles (EVs) and sensors detecting particulate matter in battery packs.
