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2024 Vol.29, Issue 4 Preview Page

Research Article

Utilizing Lithium-Ion Battery Thermal Runaway for an Advanced Propulsion: Theory Development and Case Studies

리튬이온 배터리 열폭주 기반의 추력발생 이론 및 응용

Minseok Kim1
,
Rajak Rajendra1
,
Daehong Lim1
,
Jai-ick Yoh2†
김 민석1
,
라젠드라 라작1
,
임 대홍1
,
여 재익2†
1Department of Aerospace Engineering, Seoul National University
2Department of Aerospace Engineering and the Institute of Advanced Aerospace Technology, Seoul National University
1서울대학교 항공우주공학과
2서울대학교 항공우주공학과 및 항공우주신기술연구소
*Corresponding Author
31 December 2024. pp. 21-33
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Abstract

This study explores the theoretical potential of using thermal runaway in lithium-ion batteries for propulsion systems. Lithium-ion batteries, essential in various applications, are prone to thermal runaway, a phenomenon that can cause rapid temperature increases and energy release due to electrochemical and chemical reactions within the battery. While traditionally considered a safety risk, recent research has suggested leveraging this phenomenon for energy conversion and propulsion technology development. This paper aims to construct theoretical models of electrochemical systems, analyze the relationship between voltage and heat generation, and investigate how to control thermal runaway for desired thrust generation. The study presents three key scenarios: a system without chemical reactions at low temperatures, a system where chemical reactions occur at high temperatures, and a system involving rapid flow and high-speed reactions. By analyzing the linear relationship between voltage and heat generation, the research demonstrates the feasibility of controlling heat output through voltage adjustments. Additionally, the study evaluates the potential of using the combustion of gases produced during thermal runaway for propulsion, highlighting its applicability in space debris removal and other space-related activities. The findings suggest that controlling the combustion mechanism during thermal runaway could lead to the development of a novel electrochemical propulsion technology for the space industry.

Keywords
Lithium-ion battery
Thermal runaway
Electrochemical system
Chemical propulsion
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Information
  • Publisher :The Korean Society of Combustion
  • Publisher(Ko) :한국연소학회
  • Journal Title :Journal of the Korean Society of Combustion
  • Journal Title(Ko) :한국연소학회지
  • Volume : 29
  • No :4
  • Pages :21-33
  • Received Date : 2024-09-05
  • Revised Date : 2024-11-14
  • Accepted Date : 2024-11-14
  • DOI :https://doi.org/10.15231/jksc.2024.29.4.021
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