Underwriters Laboratories Introduces Safety Requirements for Battery Separators
Underwriters Laboratories (UL) announced the establishment of revised requirements addressing the safety of lithium batteries. The requirements, issued in December 2009 as UL Subject 2591, are designed specifically for separators, the porous film that keeps the anode and cathode components of batteries apart while still allowing ions to flow between them.
Evaluation to Subject 2591 will assist separator manufacturers, and manufacturers of lithium batteries who use separators, to control critical separator parameters in order to reduce the potential for product failure and enhance consumer confidence in their products.
"The importance of battery integrity and safety has grown as the capabilities and demands we place upon our portable electronic devices increase," said Carlos Correia, Vice President, UL High-Tech Division. "UL has worked closely with members of the battery and IT industry to introduce separator requirements focused on reliability and, first and foremost, safety."
UL now offers testing and certification services pursuant to the new requirements. UL also provides manufacturers with the technical information and guidance they need to maintain compliance with the requirements.
"UL is pleased to have played a pivotal role in establishing this important safety benchmark for lithium batteries," said Correia. "Our track record of expertise in electronics, and our global leadership in testing and certification services give manufacturers and their customers peace of mind that their products carrying the UL Mark meet established standards for safety and performance."
