Just as lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries are a very common power supply in consumer items, they are also an essential part of the power systems used across NASA. Agency applications range from launch systems, payloads and unmanned aerial systems to non-flight technical equipment like test sets, laptop computers and cell phones. Their high energy density, small charging memory effect and slow loss of charge while not in use make Li-ion batteries useful in most modern day technologies.

However, they contain chemicals that when allowed to react directly, can explode or start fires that current fire-extinguishing agents are unable to extinguish. In the last 10 years, NASA centers have experienced at least four Li-ion battery failures and multiple close calls. The batteries pose different usage, storage, charging and handling risks depending upon size and energy density. Manufacturer specifications may be incomplete or inaccurate, and some safety regulations struggle to keep pace with battery innovations. One recent event that was affected by these challenges was the June 14, 2016 Li-ion battery fire at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory. The battery underwent thermal runaway which resulted in the destruction of the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency RoboSimian robot.

http://sma.nasa.gov/news/safety-messages/safety-message-item/robosimian-lithium-ion-battery-fire