Spills

The LS600h L 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.