Passive battery thermal management of lithium ion battery using nano-enhanced phase change material: an experimental study

Abstract This study examines the efficacy of phase change material (PCM) and nano-enhanced phase change material (NePCM) in regulating the thermal dynamics of lithium-ion batteries (LiBs) during rapid discharges. Lithium-ion batteries produce significant heat at high discharge rates, potentially resulting in performance decline and safety hazards, such as thermal runaway. To resolve this issue, layers of PCM (RT44HC) and NePCM were implemented around the battery cell, and their thermal performance was assessed at discharge rates of 1C, 2C, and 3C. Temperature profiles were examined under three conditions: bare cell (lacking thermal management), PCM, and NePCM. The findings indicate that both PCM and NePCM effectively mitigate temperature increases, with NePCM consistently exhibiting enhanced performance. At 1 °C, NePCM diminished the temperature increase by 33.3%, whereas at 3 °C, it attained a 21.3% reduction relative to the uncoated cell. The improved performance is due to the augmented thermal conductivity offered by nanoparticles in NePCM, enabling expedited and more uniform heat dissipation. NePCM demonstrated significant advantages at elevated discharge rates, where thermal management requirements are paramount. NePCM presents a viable solution for enhancing battery safety and operational stability, rendering it appropriate for use in electric vehicles and high-energy storage systems.