In the realm of energy storage, ensuring the safety and efficiency of lithium-ion batteries is paramount. A team of researchers from the University of Cincinnati, led by Dr. Xuguang Zhang and Dr. Yi Zheng, has developed an innovative thermal management system for lithium-ion pouch cells (LIPCs) that could significantly enhance battery performance and longevity.
The researchers have introduced a lightweight hybrid battery thermal management system (BTMS) that combines active liquid cooling with composite phase change material (CPCM) based thermal buffering. This system is fabricated using a 3D printing process that creates a hexagonal architecture, allowing for sealed CPCM encapsulation and isolated liquid cooling pathways within a single carbon fiber reinforced nylon module. This design effectively eliminates leakage risks while enabling precise geometric control.
The hexagonal design of the CPCM cavities maximizes the interfacial area and shortens internal conduction paths, accelerating latent heat absorption. Meanwhile, embedded serpentine liquid channels provide continuous convective heat removal and prevent CPCM saturation. To overcome the low thermal conductivity of conventional paraffin-based materials, the researchers employed a nanocarbon-enhanced CPCM.
This advanced BTMS is particularly beneficial for high-power operating conditions where conventional systems struggle to balance cooling effectiveness, structural simplicity, and weight. The practical applications for the energy sector are significant, as improved thermal management can lead to enhanced battery performance, increased durability, and improved safety.
The research was published in the journal Applied Thermal Engineering, providing a promising avenue for advancing thermal management technologies in the energy industry.
This article is based on research available at arXiv.