A review of power battery cooling technologies

Abstract

Lithium-ion batteries are a promising solution for achieving carbon neutrality in transportation due to their high energy density and low self-discharge rates. However, an effective and efficient thermal management system is essential to address the temperature sensitivity of their performance, lifetime, and safety. As energy density and charge/discharge power increase, conventional cooling technologies face unprecedented challenges. Therefore, this paper aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the technical features and potential avenues for existing technologies. Three heat production models are introduced, and the adverse temperature effects are discussed. Theoretical methods for enhancing the cooling effect are analyzed based on governing equations. The main cooling technologies are reviewed, including air cooling, liquid cooling, phase change material-based cooling, heat pipe-based cooling, and hybrid cooling. The features and potential scenarios for different technologies are presented. The importance of multi-objective optimization, which aims to balance cooling performance, system weight, power consumption, environmental impact, and equipment cost, is highlighted during the design phase. Research on the prediction of battery state and thermal events using machine learning is also discussed. Moreover, the urgency of thermal management control strategies at the whole vehicle level is noted. This state-of-the-art review is expected to serve as a reference for future research on battery cooling technologies.