Microporous Insulation Panels: Comprehensive Fire Protection for Battery Energy Storage Systems

With the rapid development of the new energy industry, battery energy storage systems (BESS) play an increasingly vital role in power peak shaving, renewable energy grid integration, and electric vehicles. However, as battery capacity grows and technology advances, safety concerns—particularly fire risks—have become a major focus. In this context, high-performance fireproof and thermal insulation materials are critical to ensure the safe operation of energy storage systems.

At each level—cell, pack, and container—energy storage systems face distinct thermal management and fire protection challenges. Microporous insulation panels, with their exceptional heat resistance and thermal insulation properties, are now widely used in these key areas, providing robust protection for battery energy storage systems.

Cell to Cell Level: Precision Protection to Mitigate Thermal Runaway

The battery cell is the core component of an energy storage system, and its performance and safety directly determine system stability. Inside a cell, rapid temperature and pressure increases from chemical reactions can trigger thermal runaway, leading to fires or explosions.

Microporous insulation panels excel in cell-level thermal runaway protection, outperforming aerogels and other traditional insulation materials due to their ultra-low thermal conductivity (<0.04 W/m·K at 800°C) and superior high-temperature resistance. They effectively block heat transfer between cells while maintaining excellent mechanical strength and dimensional stability. In case of fire, microporous insulation material releases no smoke, ensuring safe and eco-friendly protection. When installed between cells, these panels prevent heat propagation during a thermal runaway event, keeping adjacent cells within safe temperature limits and extending emergency response time.

Typical products for cell to cell protection: TT 1000 classic LB

Pack Level: Structural Optimization for Enhanced Safety

At the pack level, multiple cells are integrated into a complete energy storage module, making thermal management and fireproof design crucial. Challenges include not only heat conduction between cells but also external environmental impacts.

Microporous insulation panels serve as inter-module thermal barriers, reducing heat transfer efficiency and preventing chain reactions caused by localized overheating. Their customizable and easy-to-process nature allows seamless integration into complex pack designs, improving overall safety and lifespan. Additionally, fireproof barriers made of these insulation materials can confine fires to a limited area.

Modular designs incorporating these panels also simplify maintenance and replacement, enhancing system sustainability and cost-efficiency.

Container Level: The Last Line of Defense

Containerized energy storage systems face even greater risks, as thermal runaway in one unit can lead to catastrophic consequences. Fireproof insulation layers are essential to prevent fire spread between containers.

Microporous insulation panels provide:

• Thermal insulation: Reducing heat accumulation and lowering equipment surface temperatures.
• Fire containment: With a UL 94 V-0 flame-retardant rating, they act as fire barriers, buying critical time for emergency response.

Their lightweight properties also help reduce container weight, improving transportation and installation efficiency.

Typical product for BESS containers: TT 1000 fabric 

From cells to containers, microporous insulation panels deliver comprehensive fireproof and thermal insulation protection, significantly reducing fire risks and supporting the sustainable growth of the new energy industry.

As technology advances and strict regulations release, microporous insulation panels will find broader applications in energy storage, helping build safer, more efficient, and sustainable energy systems. Microporous insulation panels—the reliable guardian of energy storage safety!

For more information about our microporous insulation panels, please contact us at info@unicorn-insulations.com.