Hawaii Fire Dept. Tests Novel Agent to Tackle Growing Lithium-Ion Battery Fire Threat

NEW YORK, NY – November 20, 2025

The Rising Threat of Lithium-Ion Battery Fires

The proliferation of electric vehicles (EVs), energy storage systems (ESS), and portable electronic devices has ushered in a new era of convenience and sustainability, but also a growing safety concern: lithium-ion battery fires. These fires, unlike those involving traditional fuels, are notoriously difficult to extinguish, can reignite hours after suppression, and release hazardous fumes. As incidents continue to rise across the country, fire departments are scrambling to adapt and find effective solutions. A key challenge is the thermal runaway phenomenon, where an internal short causes a battery to overheat and ignite, often resulting in a cascading failure that is exceptionally hard to control.

“The speed at which these fires escalate is unlike anything we’ve seen before,” said a senior fire official in Honolulu, speaking on background. “Traditional methods simply aren't designed to handle the intense heat and the potential for re-ignition.”

Full Circle Lithium’s Technology Under Scrutiny in Honolulu

On November 22nd, the Honolulu Fire Department (HFD) will conduct a live demonstration of Full Circle Lithium Corp.’s (TSXV: FCLI, OTCQB: FCLIF, FSE: K0Q) FCL-X™ lithium-ion battery fire extinguishing technology. This follows an initial demonstration at the FDIC International Conference earlier this year and a formal request from HFD to evaluate its effectiveness in a real-world scenario. FCL-X™ is a water-based, non-hazardous agent designed to rapidly cool batteries and prevent thermal runaway. The demonstration will include both classroom sessions and live fire suppression exercises, providing HFD personnel with hands-on experience with the technology.

The choice of Honolulu as a testing ground is strategic. Hawaii’s isolated location and high adoption rate of renewable energy sources, including ESS, make it particularly vulnerable to the risks associated with lithium-ion battery fires. The HFD has proactively sought out innovative solutions to address these emerging threats, establishing itself as a leader in fire safety preparedness.

“We’re constantly evaluating new technologies and methods to enhance our ability to respond to all types of emergencies,” stated a HFD spokesperson. “This demonstration is an important step in determining whether FCL-X™ can effectively suppress lithium-ion battery fires and protect our community.”

Assessing the Financial Landscape and Competitive Dynamics

Full Circle Lithium, currently trading at CAD 0.10 on the TSX Venture Exchange, remains a development-stage company, reporting ongoing losses as of its latest financial statements. While the company has secured stock options for key personnel, its financial stability hinges on successful product adoption and revenue generation. The company’s focus on FCL-X™ is a calculated risk in a rapidly expanding market, projected to reach over USD 800 million by 2032.

The competitive landscape is diverse, with established fire safety giants like Johnson Controls and Siemens adapting existing technologies for lithium-ion battery applications. However, several specialized startups, including those offering aerosol-based systems and encapsulating agents, are also vying for market share. Full Circle Lithium differentiates itself with its water-based, non-hazardous approach, aiming for a safer and more environmentally friendly solution.

“There’s a real opportunity for companies that can develop effective and sustainable fire suppression technologies for lithium-ion batteries,” said an industry analyst who requested anonymity. “The key will be demonstrating consistent performance and securing crucial certifications from organizations like UL and FM Global.”

Currently, FCL-X™ has undergone internal testing and demonstrations, but lacks formal third-party certification. While the company highlights successful demonstration results, achieving certifications from recognized bodies is vital for widespread adoption and insurance purposes. A lack of such certifications is not necessarily a sign of ineffectiveness, but does indicate the product is still in the process of meeting rigorous industry standards.

The upcoming demonstration in Honolulu, alongside a planned demonstration in Houston, TX, on December 16th, will be crucial for gathering real-world data and building credibility. The results of these evaluations will likely influence the HFD’s decision on whether to adopt FCL-X™ and could significantly impact Full Circle Lithium’s future prospects.