Paul Christensen
Expert in Lithium-Ion Battery Safety
In a world powered by lithium-ion batteries, safety isn’t just a priority – it’s a necessity. Professor Paul Christensen, a globally recognised leader in lithium-ion battery safety, is dedicated to advancing research and practical solutions for the safe integration of this transformative technology.
As Professor Emeritus of Electrochemistry at Newcastle University, Paul brings over 39 years of academic expertise to the forefront of battery safety. His groundbreaking research has revolutionised our understanding of hazards like thermal runaway, vapour cloud explosions, and fire suppression in large-scale lithium-ion systems. Trusted by government agencies, fire safety organisations, and industries worldwide, Paul’s work has saved lives and informed critical safety standards across the globe.
Electrical Safety Innovation Award 2024
Why Paul Christensen’s Work Matters
- Groundbreaking Discoveries:Â First to highlight the risk of vapour cloud explosions from battery failures.
- Practical Impact:Â Advisory roles with the UK National Fire Chiefs Council, Dstl, and the Faraday Battery Challenge.
- Global Influence:Â His research underpins international safety protocols, protecting lives and infrastructure.
Information video on LiB fires and explosions, funded by Transport for London, the Metropolitan Police and the London Fire Brigade.Â
services
Advice and guidance on
All Aspects of Lithium-Ion Battery Safety
Including codes, regulations and standards.
Practical Aspects of Lithium-Ion Battery Fire and Explosion Testing
Up to and including electric vehicles and Battery Energy Storage Systems.
Test Facilities for Larger Lithium-Ion Battery Fires and Explosions
EV Infrastructure in Airports, Hospitals, eBus Depots, Underground Parking, Tunnels and Mines
Outline and Final Battery Safety Management Plans & Emergency Response Plans for BESS Planning Applications
Featured Projects
My Experience
As a trusted advisor and scientist, I’m proud to have received recognition for my contributions to battery safety
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Testimonials
Edinburgh University Formula Student are aiming to be the first UK team to compete with their own design of ADS-DV car and high power battery management and safety has been a key challenge in achieving this. Paul delivered a session and led discussions on safe battery handling and management which was hugely insightful and interactive allowing the team to appreciate the safe handling of battery packs. The sessions and discussions were informed by Paul’s rich experience and knowledge in the area of battery safety and has been instrumental  in informing teams safe battery operations and has provided direction and confidence for the team.
Dr. Paul Christensen’s risk assessment of the Apollo Fire Test Facility was nothing short of exceptional. His deep knowledge and expertise in fire risks associated with lithium-ion battery test fires were evident throughout the process.
His recommendations were thorough, practical, and tailored to our unique needs, providing us with the confidence to operate safely and efficiently.
Fire safety associated with Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) is paramount to Elements Green, and the renewable industry as a whole. Paul’s wealth of knowledge and experience was paramount to the recent planning success of our Staythorpe BESS scheme. This is a complex matter, and Paul was able to ensure our designs and Outline Fire Safety Management Plan (oFSMP) were industry leading. This enabled Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service to agree to our oFSMP.
PFPNet contracted Lithiumionsafety Ltd to provide a an overview and insight into the potential fire events from thermal runaway of a lithium ion battery and in particular the impact on infrastructure items. The work provided great insight into the different types of battery, the failure modes, the hazards from thermal runaway events including the potential for escalation, and mitigation means.
Dr Paul Christensen’s deep technical expertise in lithium-ion battery safety has been invaluable to supporting TRL deliver a groundbreaking project for to support TfL’s bus decarbonisation strategy. His in-depth knowledge of lithium-ion battery hazards and practical guidance have significantly enhanced our understanding of how these critical safety risks can be managed for electric buses. Dr Christensen’s contributions have been instrumental in ensuring our project’s success and advancing the safety of the future of sustainable urban transport.
As a residential apartment block located above a car park for 150 vehicles, it is essential that we understand the consequences of car owners switching to EVs. Prof Christensen’s advice has opened our eyes to vital risk management issues that we hadn’t previously been aware of and are now embracing.
Paul has provided advice for a number of our UK BESS projects – he offers excellent comprehensive concise advice; customer focused with timely delivery.
Professor Paul Christensen has acted as a consultant to Burgoynes in the field of lithium-ion batteries. His responsiveness and expertise in this field are most valued in supporting related live incident response and investigations.
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Join me in championing lithium-ion safety. Whether you’re an industry leader, policymaker, or first responder, I’m here to collaborate, advise, and innovate. Explore my research, connect on LinkedIn, or reach out directly to discover how we can build a safer future together.
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