“Encapsulating” experts’ knowledge: An exploration of benefits, risks, barriers and future opportunities of PCMs

Abstract

Phase change materials (PCMs) can store high densities of thermal energy and possess strong heat transmission qualities. Given their diverse properties, these materials are well-suited for managing thermal energy in various applications This study focuses on battery thermal management systems (BTMS), where PCMs can regulate temperature variations in BTMS without needing external energy input to operate. However, despite their unique applications, PCMs application in BTMS remains limited. This research seeks to answer four important questions considering net-zero targets. What are the main advantages of PCMS in BTMS, what are their main drawbacks, which are the best means to combat their disadvantages and which are the key barriers to commercialising PCMs? These questions are addressed through a mixed-method approach, including a targeted literature review and 16 expert interviews with stakeholders from the industrial and academic sectors. The key conclusions emerging from professional public opinions and the literature analysis suggest that commercial barriers to PCM deployment are dominated by a lack of research examining the performance of these materials in the long term and a pervasive lack of interest from the automotive industry and Tier 1 battery pack suppliers in adopting PCMs.