Multi-scale-multi-domain simulation of novel microchannel-integrated cylindrical Li-ion battery thermal management: Nanoparticle shape effect

Abstract

For cylindrical 26650-type lithium-ion batteries, a novel battery thermal management system employing nanofluid-cooled serpentine microchannels is designed and investigated using a Multi-Scale Multi-Domain framework. Water-based various shaped nanoparticles-dispersed nanofluids [NF1 (1 % spherical-shaped Al2O3), NF2 (1 % brick-shaped Al2O3), NF3 (1 % cylindrical-shaped Al2O3), NF4 (1 % blade-shaped Al2O3) and HNF (0.25 % spherical/0.25 % brick/0.25 % cylindrical/0.25 % blade-shaped Al2O3)] are used to study the effect of nanoparticle shape on the battery thermal management system (BTMS). The battery pack's maximum temperature, temperature uniformity, pumping power, heat transfer coefficient to pressure drop ratio, and entropy generation are assessed. NF3 shows the lowest maximum temperature of 305.0 K, and NF1 shows the highest maximum temperature of 306.1 K for the battery thermal management system. NF1 presents the lowest entropy generation rate of 4.241 W/K and the highest heat transfer coefficient to pressure drop ratio of 0.449 m/sK among the mentioned nanofluids. The application of nanofluid in BTMS makes the temperature distribution more evenly over the battery surface and enhances battery life. Adding the non–spherical nanoparticles to the base fluid could improve the thermal performance of BTMS with the penalty of higher pumping power. Hence, a trade-off between heat exchange and pumping power can be achieved by controlling the form of nanoparticles. © 2024 Elsevier Ltd