A Review of Thermal Management and Heat Transfer of Lithium-Ion Batteries

Liang Xu, Shanyi Wang, Lei Xi (), Yunlong Li and Jianmin Gao
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Liang Xu: School of Mechanical Engineering, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710049, China
Shanyi Wang: School of Mechanical Engineering, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710049, China
Lei Xi: School of Mechanical Engineering, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710049, China
Yunlong Li: School of Mechanical Engineering, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710049, China
Jianmin Gao: School of Mechanical Engineering, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710049, China

Energies, 2024, vol. 17, issue 16, 1-36

Abstract: With the increasing demand for renewable energy worldwide, lithium-ion batteries are a major candidate for the energy shift due to their superior capabilities. However, the heat generated by these batteries during their operation can lead to serious safety issues and even fires and explosions if not managed effectively. Lithium-ion batteries also suffer from significant performance degradation at low temperatures, including reduced power output, a shorter cycle life, and reduced usable capacity. Deploying an effective battery thermal management system (BTMS) is crucial to address these obstacles and maintain stable battery operation within a safe temperature range. In this study, we review recent developments in the thermal management and heat transfer of Li-ion batteries to offer more effective, secure, and cost-effective solutions. We evaluate different technologies in BTMSs, such as air cooling, liquid cooling, phase change materials, heat pipes, external preheating, and internal preheating, discussing their advantages and disadvantages. Through comparative analyses of high-temperature cooling and low-temperature preheating, we highlight the research trends to inspire future researchers. According to the review of the literature, submerged liquid BTMS configurations show the greatest potential as a research focus to enhance thermal regulation in Li-ion batteries. In addition, there is considerable research potential in the innovation of air-based BTMSs, the optimization of liquid-based BTMSs, the coupling of heat pipes with PCMs, the integration of PCMs and liquid-cooled hybrid BTMSs, and the application of machine learning and topology optimization in BTMS design. The application of 3D printing in lithium-ion battery thermal management promises to enhance heat transfer efficiency and system adaptability through the design of innovative materials and structures, thereby improving the battery’s performance and safety.

Keywords: thermal management system; lithium-ion batteries; battery preheating; air cooling; liquid cooling; heat pipe; phase change materials (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Q Q0 Q4 Q40 Q41 Q42 Q43 Q47 Q48 Q49 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2024
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (1)

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