Spills

Spills
The GS450h contains the same common automotive fluids used in other non- hybrid 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 plastic battery module would be a rare occurrence.

Similar to the use of baking soda to neutralize a lead-acid battery electrolyte spill, a dilute boric acid solution or vinegar can be 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.