- A deep-sea vessel’s equipment, powered by Li-ion batteries, experienced an explosion due to seawater leakage.
- The explosion occurred seven hours after a potential leak was detected but not immediately addressed.
- The incident led to the removal of remaining batteries for safety checks.
A specialist deep-sea vessel conducting deepwater experiments used equipment powered by lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries. These batteries were housed in several metal tubes attached to the vessel’s framework, reports MAIB Safety Digest.
Potential Leak Discovered
After a successful deployment, an inspection revealed a potential leak from one of the battery tubes. However, due to other work priorities, the technician delayed further examination and removal of the battery, leaving it in the storage area.
Seven hours later, a loud bang was heard by the vessel’s bridge team, followed by a fire detection system warning for the equipment storage area. Crew members found a scorched and damaged battery tube lying on the deck.
Cause of Explosion
An examination revealed that seawater had leaked into the battery compartment, contaminating the Li-ion battery. This led to the build-up of pressurized gases, causing the battery to self-combust and resulting in a brief explosion.
Following the incident, the remaining battery tubes were removed to a secure storage area for further inspection and safety checks.
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Source: MAIB Safety Digest
