Local heat distributions in Li-ion batteries characterized precisely with new method

Researchers from the University of Caen Normandy in France used greenTEG’s heat flux sensor to investigate local heat distribution in prismatic Lithium-ion batteries at various charge/discharge rates.

Li-ion batteries are widely used as rechargeable energy storage systems for electric vehicles and hybrid electric vehicles, which play an important role in the current energy transition. Temperature generation affects the performance and lifetime of a battery and can even entail a serious safety risk. The thermal characterization of Lithium-ion batteries is therefore needed to develop an effective thermal management system for their optimal and safe use.

To do so, the researchers developed a new method. They did not rely on surface temperature measurements and modelling of heat transfer, but used heat flux sensors, temperature sensors and infrared imaging to investigate reversible and irreversible local heat fluxes generated by the battery precisely. They observed that the temperature is higher at the beginning of the charge cycle and that increasing the charge/discharge current rate increases the battery temperature, the heat flux, and the part of the irreversible heat compared to the reversible heat.