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VOC detection by Metis

05 June 2025

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are gases emitted from lithium-ion cells when they begin to malfunction and vent. 

Regardless of the cell chemistry—whether NMC (Nickel Manganese Cobalt Oxides), LFP (Lithium Iron Phosphate), or LMFP (Lithium Manganese Iron Phosphate)—Cell Guard is able to detect VOC emissions.

What are VOCs?

VOCs are organic chemical compounds with high vapor pressure at room temperature, making them volatile. They can be naturally occurring or synthetic and include substances such as benzene, acetone, and formaldehyde. These compounds are found in many everyday products and are released when lithium-ion battery cells malfunction or fail.

Why Detect VOCs?

Monitoring VOC levels inside a battery pack is the earliest indication of a failing cell. When a cell begins to vent, it marks the first stage of Thermal Runaway (TR)—a dangerous process that can lead to battery pack destruction and, in severe cases, total system loss in electric vehicles or energy storage systems.

How Are VOCs Detected?

Sensor-Based Methods

  • Photoionisation Detectors (PIDs): Ionise VOCs to measure concentration.

  • Electrochemical Sensors: Detect specific compounds through chemical reactions.

  • Metal-Oxide Sensors: Sense changes in resistance when gases are absorbed.

Spectroscopy Techniques

  • Infrared (IR) Spectroscopy: Measures absorption at specific wavelengths.

  • Mass Spectrometry (MS): Analyses mass-to-charge ratios to identify compounds.

Emerging Technologies

  • Nanotechnology: Enhances sensor sensitivity using advanced materials.

  • CAN-Based Sensors: Metis Engineering's units offer adjustable CAN protocols for seamless integration.

  • Wireless Networks & AI: Enable real-time monitoring and predictive analysis.

VOC Detection Beyond Batteries

VOC monitoring is not limited to battery safety. It plays a crucial role in:

  • Industrial environments (ensuring compliance and worker safety),

  • Residential settings (air quality),

  • Healthcare (exposure tracking and diagnostics).

Current Challenges and Future Innovations

While progress has been made, key challenges remain:

  • Insufficient sensitivity at low concentrations

  • High costs of advanced systems

  • Complexity in interpreting results

The future of VOC detection lies in:

  • Miniaturised, portable sensors

  • Integration with IoT platforms

  • Improved algorithms powered by AI

As these technologies evolve, VOC detection will become a cornerstone of safer, more efficient energy systems.

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