Figure 4: Risks and potential dangers of high
voltage systems [3]
Out of the point of view of the high voltage battery potential defects can be caused out of internal and external short cuts, cell aging processes, overcharging and over-discharging, external high temperature or crash events as well. All of it can cause reactions inside of the battery which can lead to overheating and fire, to the destruction of the separator or to a thermal runaway.
In addition deflagration and explosion are possible, if there is a local gas concentration and an ignition by spark will take place. Dangerous chemical substances can escape from the component housing as well.