Numerical analysis of the impact of PCM reservoir width on lithium-ion battery cooling: A constructal design study

Abstract

The aim of this work is to examine, from the perspective of Constructal Design, the influence of the width (Wpcm) of a reservoir filled with PCM (phase change material) on the cooling performance of a Li-ion battery cell under discharge rates of 3C and 5C. The problem is considered two-dimensional and transient. The mathematical model is multiphase, with different characteristics for the solid domain (battery cell) and the fluid domain (PCM reservoir), based on the mass, momentum and energy balance equations. The finite volume method is used to solve the problem numerically, and the grid meshes used in the spatial discretization are subjected to uncertainty analysis. The results show that the use of the PCM reservoir contributes significantly to the cooling of the battery. When the battery discharge occurs at a rate of 5C, there is a 13.1°C reduction in the maximum temperature of the battery (Tmax).