Enhancing heat transfer efficiency in li-ion battery packs for EV powertrain through nanofluid cooling

Ndlovu, Zolani and Ohenhen, Peter and Balogun, Olusegun Abiodun and Alao, Victoria Adebisi and Ishola, Akinwale and Ochigbo, Raphael Itodo and Musa, Nicholas Akhaze (2025) Enhancing heat transfer efficiency in li-ion battery packs for EV powertrain through nanofluid cooling. Global Journal of Engineering and Technology Advances, 22 (2). pp. 120-135. ISSN 2582-5003

LIB (Lithium-ion) batteries play a crucial role in electric vehicles and are considered the most sustainable energy storage solution for modern electric transportation. These batteries serve various purposes, including supplying power for electronic devices like laptops and cell phones. However, managing battery temperature poses a significant challenge in design, particularly due to excessive heat generation during charging and discharging processes. Insufficient heat transfer between closely packed cells can compromise Li-ion cell performance and even lead to safety hazards such as explosions. Hence, the aim of this study is to enhance heat transfer and cooling processes across the battery pack of electric vehicles. A comprehensive investigation was conducted on the impact of water-copper (II) oxide nanofluid flow at varying speeds on temperature distribution within the battery pack. The adoption of copper (II) oxide nanofluid as a coolant resulted in improved thermal efficiency. This research centres on designing a Li-ion battery pack utilizing water copper (II) oxide nanofluid to enhance heat transfer and cooling efficiency throughout the battery pack.