Spills

The RX450h contains the same common automotive fluids used in other Lexus vehicles, with the exception of NiMH electrolyte used in the HV battery pack. The NiMH battery electrolyte is a caustic alkaline (pH 13.5) that is damaging to human tissues. The electrolyte, however, is absorbed in the cell plates and will not normally spill or leak out even if a battery module is cracked. A catastrophic crash that would breach both the metal battery pack case and the metal battery module would be a rare occurrence.

Similar to using baking soda to neutralize a lead-acid battery electrolyte spill, a dilute boric acid solution or vinegar is used to neutralize a NiMH battery electrolyte spill.

NOTE:
Electrolyte leakage from the HV battery pack is unlikely due to its construction and the amount of available electrolyte contained within the NiMH modules. Any spillage would not warrant a declaration as a hazardous material incident. Responders should follow the recommendations as outlined.

In an emergency, Lexus Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) are available by contacting:
United States: CHEMTREC at (800) 424- 9300
Canada: CANUTEC at *666 or (613) 996- 6666 (collect)

- Handle NiMH Electrolyte Spills Using The Following Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
Splash shield or safety goggles. Fold down helmet shields are not acceptable for acid or electrolyte spills.
Rubber, latex or Nitrile gloves.
Apron suitable for alkaline. Rubber boots.

- Neutralize NiMH Electrolyte
Use a boric acid solution or vinegar.
Boric acid solution - 800 grams boric acid to 20 liters water or 5.5 ounces boric acid to 1 gallon of water.