Transportation remains a major source of greenhouse emissions and thus a major contributor to climate change. Electric vehicles (EVs) are an alternative to current fossil-fuel based vehicles and their uptake is rapidly increasing. EVs utilise the latest energy storage technology of Lithium-Ion batteries (LIBs). LIBs are advantageous to other battery solution due to their high energy density and slow ageing compared to other battery solutions [1]. The ageing of LIBs depends on several factors such as charge-discharge rate, current, extreme temperatures. Temperature is the most influential factor as it can increase rapidly from hot-spots forming during charging-discharging and this non-uniform temperature distribution results in the ageing of LIBS [2]. Hence, LIBS should be kept within a temperature range of 25°C-35°C [2].
LIBs consist of several closely packed battery cells into a pack which is cooled by fin, air and liquid cooling that is either inefficient, bulky or consume part of the energy storage in the LIB and lowering the vehicle range [4]. Thermosyphon is a thermal management system (TES) that is passive, cost-effective, scalable, and able to continuously remove large amounts of heat based on two phase-flow of the refrigerant between the evaporator and the condenser [5].
This project will focus on developing novel, highly efficient TES based on thermosyphons for individual battery cells by exploring the following:
1. Thermosyphon geometry, wall patterning and infusing with lubricant
2. Assess the performance of incorporating heat sinks or loop design
3. Evaluate the effect of adding phase change materials (PCM) to enhance the overall performance
The successful candidate will design a number different TES and fabricate them in our state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities of Productivity East. They may collaborate with industrial partners who specialise in the manufacturing of EVs for global automotive, aerospace, marine, construction & bus markets.
