In a significant advancement for battery technology, researchers have proposed a novel battery thermal management system (BTMS) that could reshape the safety and efficiency of lithium-ion batteries. This innovative system, which combines composite phase change materials (CPCM) with a variable wall liquid cooling plate (LCP), promises to mitigate the risk of thermal runaway—a critical concern in energy storage and electric vehicle applications.
Lead researcher Xiaoyong Gu from the Jiangsu Engineering Research Center of New Energy Vehicle Energy Saving and Battery Safety at the WUXI Institute of Technology, emphasizes the importance of effective thermal management in battery systems. “To ensure the safety and longevity of lithium-ion batteries, maintaining optimal temperature is crucial. Our research demonstrates that a well-optimized BTMS can significantly enhance thermal performance,” Gu stated.
The study, published in the *International Journal of Thermofluids*, outlines the development of a numerical model that was validated through experimental methods. It highlights how the design of the LCP affects battery temperature and introduces an efficiency index for phase change materials (EOP) to evaluate the performance of the CPCM. The results are promising: the implementation of the variable wall LCP resulted in a reduction of 1.81 °C in the maximum temperature of the battery pack.
Moreover, the research found that maintaining the battery temperature below 40 °C requires a water flow rate of just over 0.89 g/s. This finding is particularly relevant for commercial applications where efficiency and safety are paramount. “Our optimized structure not only improves thermal management but also contributes to the overall reliability of battery systems in electric vehicles,” Gu added.
As the electric vehicle market continues to expand, innovations like this BTMS could have far-reaching implications. By enhancing battery safety and performance, manufacturers may be able to increase consumer confidence and accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles. Furthermore, the insights gained from this study can inform future designs of thermal management systems, potentially leading to even more efficient and safer battery technologies.
The research conducted by Gu and his team serves as a valuable reference for industries focused on energy storage solutions, paving the way for advancements that could redefine the landscape of electric mobility and renewable energy integration. For more details, you can visit the Jiangsu Engineering Research Center of New Energy Vehicle Energy Saving and Battery Safety.