Development and investigation of heat extraction concepts for metallic phase change thermal energy storage in mobile applications

Abstract

Storing thermal energy using metallic phase change materials is a technology that shows promise for enhancing the thermal management of electric vehicles in cold environments. However, according to the current state of technology and research, the use of such a storage system in vehicles is uncharted territory. In terms of thermal discharge, the high operating temperature range of such systems poses challenges. To address this research gap, this thesis focuses on the development and investigation of heat extraction concepts for metallic phase change thermal energy storage in mobile applications. On the basis of conceptual development, two main concepts, a direct air and a novel multi-stage boiling discharge concept, were selected for further prototyping, simulation, and experimental investigation. A proof of concept was achieved for both concepts, demonstrating the functionality, performance, and efficiency of the heat extraction process. For the first time, fundamental physical effects of the discharge were characterized and important technical design aspects were revealed.