Questex’s Sensors Converge and Fierce Electronics announced Honeywell as the winner of the 2025 Best of Sensors Awards in the Power & Sustainability Solution category for its Battery Safety Electrolyte Detector (BES LITE). The awards were presented during a ceremony at the 40th annual Sensors Converge event in Santa Clara, California. The Best of Sensors Awards recognize the most cutting-edge technologies, pioneering leaders, and innovative companies across the sensors, electronics, and embedded systems landscape. A panel of industry judges evaluated entries based on innovation, market value, and their ability to address critical challenges in the industry.
The BES LITE represents a significant advancement in lithium-ion battery safety monitoring by detecting electrolyte vapor released during the initial phases of thermal runaway events. Unlike traditional battery monitoring systems that rely on temperature, voltage, and current measurements, the BES LITE provides early-warning capabilities by detecting gases that are typically released before catastrophic battery failure occurs.
The sensor employs Honeywell’s proprietary gas-sensing technology to selectively respond to battery electrolyte vapor, which serves as a reliable indicator of thermal events in lithium-ion batteries. This selective detection capability significantly reduces the risk of false alarms, making it particularly valuable in environments where other interfering gases may be present. The technology is designed to work with all lithium-ion battery chemistries and cell types, including prismatic, pouch, and cylindrical configurations, as well as different chemistries such as NMC, LFP, and LTO.
One of the key innovations of the BES LITE is its intrinsically safe design that operates without an internal heating element. This approach not only minimizes power consumption but also makes the sensor ideal for use in explosion-proof environments and applications requiring extended battery life. The sensor features a low-profile, compact design that enables installation even in tight spaces within battery packs or enclosures.
The BES LITE provides a three-state analog output and includes built-in diagnostics functionality for reliable operation. The sensor is engineered to resist common contaminants and is highly resistant to siloxane poisoning, ensuring consistent performance in demanding industrial environments. With a 10-year sensor life, the device offers long-term reliability for critical safety applications.
When presenting the award, judges commented on the solution’s cost-effectiveness and outsized return on investment in safety, asset protection, and regulatory compliance, particularly for original equipment manufacturers. They noted the sensor’s “strong effectiveness by clear real-world validation” and praised its “highly innovative blend of material science and MEMS packaging, unlocking a new class of battery integrated safety monitoring.”
The BES LITE addresses growing safety concerns in applications involving sealed and portable lithium-ion battery modules, including Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS), urban air mobility vehicles, micro-mobility devices, medical equipment, and light industrial goods. Early detection capabilities enable prompt implementation of safety mitigation actions, allowing operators to address potential hazards before they escalate into more serious thermal runaway events.
The sensor’s ability to detect initial venting events before full thermal runaway occurs provides enhanced asset protection and helps ensure compliance with international regulations and guidance for battery safety monitoring. This proactive approach to thermal event detection represents a shift from reactive monitoring to preventive safety measures in lithium-ion battery applications.
Honeywell, a Fortune 100 technology company headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina, delivers industry-specific solutions that include aerospace products and services, control technologies for buildings and industry, and performance materials globally. The company has been at the forefront of developing advanced sensing technologies for critical safety applications across multiple industries.
To discover other companies providing innovative sensors and the complete list of 2025 winners, visit the Best of Sensors Awards announcement.