A Review on Composite Phase Change Materials and Fins-Based Li-Ion Battery Thermal Management Systems with Design Perspectives and Future Outlooks

Abstract

Electric vehicles (EVs) are frequently powered by Li-ion batteries (LIBs) due to their substantial capacity of energy; nevertheless, thermal runaways (TRs) can cause performance issues and safety dangers. Battery thermal management systems (BTMs) are essential for mitigating the difficulties by lowering the extreme temperature of the battery and the differential temperature. Among the several BTMS technologies, phase change material (PCM) embedded systems have received a lot of interest, because of their simplicity, low cost, and elevated latent and sensible heat. The current study analyzes the passive BTMS (mostly on PCM and fin-based) for cylindrical LIB, looking at the impact of temperature on the battery performance. The invesigation has focused on the performance of battery cooling, in conjunction with PCM, and the enhancement of thermal conductivity through the use of metal foams, nanometal oxides, and carbon particles. A systematic review focusing on innovative fin configurations is also presented to evaluate the effects of different fin characteristics on the efficacy of BTMS. Moreover, to make the studies more practical in application, lightweight PCM-BTMS, structural stability, space availability, and innovative fin shapes, such as spiral fins, with optimal placement concepts are discussed. The constraints of batteries, PCMS, and thermoelectric coolers are investigated further in order to foster viable solutions for BTMS for EV applications. The goal of this assessment is to provide guidance for the development of practical BTMS that meet power, volume, and weight requirements.