The Maus Fire Extinguisher can handle various situations, such as grease fires, engine fires, and lithium battery fires, utilizing chemical technology.
The Maus fire extinguisher emits potassium smoke to extinguish fires. (Image: Maus Safety).
Manufactured in Sweden, the Maus fire extinguisher is the size of a flashlight, measuring 24.5 cm in length and 5 cm in diameter. It can be placed anywhere for up to 5 years and requires no regular maintenance like traditional fire extinguishers, according to a report by New Atlas on June 18. When activated by pulling a cord and pressing a small button, it releases a non-toxic cold potassium smoke that travels nearly 3 meters in 9 seconds. The potassium ions in the smoke move forward and bond with oxygen, hydrogen, and hydroxide radicals in the air, disrupting the chemical reaction necessary for combustion, effectively extinguishing most fires in their early stages. Due to the extended smoke trail, the flames are unlikely to reignite.
After ensuring safety, users simply need to open a door to let the wind disperse the smoke. Unlike foam or powder extinguishers that can leave a mess and damage electronics, the smoke from the Maus dissipates without leaving a residue, causing no harm to engines or equipment, according to Nicholai Allen, special advisor to Maus. It is particularly effective against lithium battery fires in enclosed or semi-enclosed spaces.
The ability to handle battery fires is a significant advantage as lithium batteries become increasingly common in the shift towards electrification. When a battery fire ignites, many traditional firefighting devices become ineffective. “Batteries generate oxygen when they catch fire. So, if you pour powder to block the oxygen supply, the battery will produce even more oxygen. They can still burn underwater. But if you place it in a chamber with the Maus extinguisher, the fire will automatically go out. The lighter-than-air potassium particles will linger in that space, preventing the fire from reigniting,” Allen explained.
The smoke from the Maus fire extinguisher is non-toxic and safe to breathe. Unlike CO2-based extinguishers, it does not deplete oxygen molecules in the area, making it safe to use around people in enclosed spaces.
Users can opt for manual control, directing it like a traditional fire extinguisher, or they can throw the Maus extinguisher into a burning vehicle or small room to quickly fill the space with smoke and manage the fire. Additionally, Maus features an automatic “Stixx” function. Users can place the extinguisher in engine compartments, cabinets, charging stations, and many other enclosed areas. It will automatically activate if the temperature exceeds 180 degrees Celsius, releasing potassium smoke throughout the space to extinguish the flames.
Allen mentioned that he is in discussions with several automotive companies, primarily electric and off-road vehicle manufacturers, to integrate the Maus fire extinguisher as an option.
