In a groundbreaking study published in “Case Studies in Thermal Engineering,” researchers have unveiled a promising advancement in battery thermal management that could significantly impact the maritime industry. Led by Tingyu Wang from the School of Ocean Engineering at Guangzhou Maritime University, this research focuses on an innovative composite material designed to enhance the safety and efficiency of battery packs, which are becoming increasingly vital in green transportation, including electric ships.
As the maritime sector shifts towards more sustainable energy sources, the safety of battery systems has become a pressing concern. The study introduces a polyethylene glycol (PEG) based solid-solid phase change material (SSPCM) that boasts impressive flame-retardant properties. This is particularly crucial for vessels that rely solely on battery power, where overheating could not only damage the batteries but also pose serious safety risks.
Wang and his team have developed a method to improve the thermal stability of PEG by polymerizing it with diphenylmethane diisocyanate (MDI). This process creates covalent bonds that help control the phase transition of the material, enhancing its performance. They also incorporated hexacetyl alcohol (HA) to further boost the latent heat during phase change, making the material even more effective in managing heat.
A standout feature of this research is the application of hexachlorocyclotriphosphazene (HCCP) as a coating on the SSPCM. This coating significantly elevates the flame-retardant properties of the material, achieving a UL94-V0 rating, which indicates excellent fire resistance. Wang noted, “The PHEH-10 with 10% HCCP exhibits latent heat with 146.65 J/g and high flame-retardant properties.” This means that the material can absorb and release heat more efficiently, a critical factor in maintaining battery performance during operation.
The implications for the maritime industry are substantial. With the ability to keep battery temperatures in check—even under high discharge rates—this technology could lead to safer and more reliable electric vessels. The study reports that the battery module using PHEH-10 maintains a maximum temperature of just 50.63 °C and a temperature difference of 5.61 °C, even at a challenging 2C discharge rate. Such performance could pave the way for longer-lasting batteries and reduced risks of thermal runaway, a phenomenon that can lead to catastrophic failures.
As the maritime sector embraces electric and hybrid vessels, innovations like Wang’s composite material could open doors for manufacturers and operators alike. This technology not only enhances safety but also aligns with global sustainability goals, making it a potentially lucrative area for investment and development.
In summary, the research led by Tingyu Wang is a significant step forward in battery thermal management, offering commercial opportunities that could reshape the future of maritime transportation. As the industry looks to balance efficiency and safety in the era of green technology, findings like these will be essential. The study’s insights into flame-retardant coatings and phase change materials could very well be the key to unlocking the full potential of battery-powered ships.
