Market assessment of polymeric heat pipes for thermal management of Li-ion batteries

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Electrochemical reactions and current flows in Li-Ion batteries generate heat and the associated temperature**rise has negative impacts on the performance, safety and lifetime of the batteries. An effective battery thermal**management system is therefore required to keep the whole battery pack temperature below 45ºC and ensure**cell-to-cell temperature variations below 5ºC. Current cooling technologies are either inefficient at maintaining**uniform temperature or add significant weight and cost to the battery pack. Our patent-pending low-cost**battery thermal management technology based on polymeric heat pipes will keep battery cells at the**recommended temperature range to prevent overheating, increase battery life and higher driving range in**electric vehicles. The use of polymer instead of metal for the heat pipe fabrication reduces the weight and cost**significantly. We have developed a prototype and are currently working with strategic partners (including**BRP) to advance the technology. The preliminary path for commercialization of the technology will be**through a spin-off company, which includes the two main inventors. A market assessment is now required**given the rapidly growing (CAGR of 27.6%) and segmented market of electric vehicles, including niche**markets such as industrial electric vehicles, recreational vehicles, drones, electric aircraft, electric boats, robots**and forklifts. This study will quantify the market opportunity, define the competitive landscape, identify the**barriers to entry and market trends as well as evaluate technology adoption and product positioning. Doing so**will allow us to define the path towards commercialisation and contribute to the global adoption of electric**vehicles and the consequent reduction in CO2 emissions.