A research team led by Professor Ting Si at University of Science and Technology of China (USTC) has pioneered thermally responsive fire-extinguishing microcapsules using droplet-based microfluidic technology with high productivity. These intelligent microcapsules (20–1000 μm in diameter) combine sensing and actuating functions. Their polymer shell encapsulates eco-friendly suppressants, rupturing precisely at critical temperatures to combat solid, liquid, and electrical fires. This innovation tackles the urgent need for timely intervention during early fire ignition.

Key Innovations and Advantages

✔ Precision Firefighting – The microcapsules activate exclusively at the fire source, ensuring efficient suppressant deployment while minimizing waste.

✔ Exceptional Stability – Laboratory tests confirm >2 years of functional integrity under normal storage conditions, making them suitable for long-term integration into safety systems.

✔ Sustainable Design – The halogen-free, low-carbon suppressant formula eliminates toxic byproducts and secondary pollution, aligning with global environmental regulations.

Initial validation in lithium-ion battery modules demonstrates strong potential for electric vehicle (EV) and energy storage safety, where overheating poses significant risks. The team has successfully simulated thermal runaway scenarios, with microcapsules effectively suppressing fires before catastrophic propagation. Next-phase research focuses on industrial collaboration to test performance in real-world settings, particularly under high-current charging/discharging cycles. Further optimization will enhance reliability in extreme operational environments, paving the way for scalable manufacturing and commercial adoption. This technology represents a paradigm shift in fire safety, offering a smart, sustainable, and proactive solution to mitigate fire risks in critical infrastructure.

small fire-extinguishing microcapsules, smart fire suppression