Thermal energy storage materials for suppressing thermal runaway propagation in lithium-ion batteries: a review

Abstract

Thermal runaway propagation in lithium-ion batteries is a major factor leading to fires and explosions in energy storage systems. Thermal energy storage materials, especially phase change materials and thermochemical storage materials, demonstrate significant potential for suppressing thermal runaway propagation due to their high energy storage density and passive heat absorption characteristics. This article systematically reviews the latest research progress in the use of thermal storage materials for suppressing thermal runaway propagation in lithium-ion batteries, focuses on performance enhancement strategies for composite phase change materials in terms of flame retardancy, thermal conductivity regulation, and flexibility. The recent application advances of novel high enthalpy materials such as hydrogels and thermochemical storage materials in inhibiting thermal runaway propagation are introduced. Furthermore, the influencing factors and optimization design of the protective performance of coupled systems integrating thermal storage materials with active cooling are analyzed. Finally, the progress of current research is summarized, and future research directions are outlined, including developing multifunctional thermal storage materials with high enthalpy, improving the long-term stability and compatibility of thermal storage materials in battery systems, constructing intelligent coupled systems, and establishing accurate thermal runaway propagation simulation models. This review aims to provide a reference for thermal protection designs that enhance the safety of lithium-ion battery systems.