Development of strain-based health monitoring and thermal runaway detection method (20-000000747)
Abstract
Modern warfare systems and platforms, such as unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs), shipboard uninterruptable power supplies, high-power sensors, and other Navy systems are increasingly relying on lithium-ion batteries for energy storage. However, the lithium-ion batteries present some safety issues. For example, an uncontrolled release of the stored energy during thermal runaway results in toxic off-gassing, smoke, fire, and explosion, which poses a serious risk to personnel, equipment, and facilities. Early detection of thermal runaway is critical as it can provide opportunity to shut down the process from progressing further. State of the art battery management systems monitor voltage, current, and surface temperature to identify the onset of thermal runaway. However, these methods have certain limitations and do not completely address the issue.Here we propose a strain-based method to detect thermal runawaybehavior and monitor the health of lithium-ion batteries. Our main hypothesis is that the mechanical strain will detect thermal runaway effectively and early. Building on our previous work on the mechanics and electrochemistry of composite electrodes and 18650 cylindrical (i.e., jelly roll) cells, we propose a series of experimental and theoretical tasks with the following objectives:(1) Carry out in situ strain measurements on the surface of 18650 cells under standard electrochemical (galvanostatic or constant current CC mode, potentiostatic or constant voltage CV, and Cyclic Voltammetry) cycling conditions to establish the baseline strain signature of a healthy battery under different C-rates.(2) Conduct in situ strain measurements of the cells under overcharge/over discharge conditions to successfully identify the onset of thermal runaway processes. These measurements will be supported by measurements of the internal pressure required to open the safety vent on cylindrical cells, as well as the relationship between pressure and strain history.(3) Develop multi-physics computational models which can evaluate surface strain of a battery based on the internal pressure buildup due to various events/chemical reactions. Validate the model with above experimental data and explore potential mitigation strategies.Safety of lithium-ion batteries is an essential design requirement for Navy applications across various platforms. Successful execution of this project leads to a method for early detection of thermal runaway. This will support the development of effective mitigation strategies and safe design principles for batteries and packs. It will also lead to an enhanced understanding of multiphysics behavior of batteries under service and abuse conditions. The outcomes of this project will help improve the safety of the Navy platforms which use lithium-ion batteries, including unmanned underwater and aerial vehicles and weapons systems used in US Navy.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- May 05, 2021
- Source ID
- N000142112499
Entities
People
- Siva Nadimpalli
Organizations
- Michigan State University
- Office of Naval Research
- United States Navy