Lithium-Ion Battery Modeling for Aerospace Applications

In this paper, we develop a semiempirical model for predicting degradation in lithium-ion batteries and use it to assess the performance of an all-electric general aviation aircraft over its operational lifetime. The model comprises three parts: a cycle discharge model, a heat transfer model, and a cell-aging model. The discharge model captures the steady-state and transient behaviors of the cell. The heat transfer model enables accurate prediction of the cell temperature within the modules of the battery pack. Lastly, the cell-aging model uses the electrical and thermal load profiles along with experimentally obtained parameters to estimate battery degradation. A flight profile representative of a mission for this class of aircraft is then studied to assess the performance of the battery pack under realistic conditions. Preliminary results indicate that battery life of the aircraft operating a daily service of four regional flights can fall by as much as 25% after one calendar year. The sensitivities of the discharge rate and the cycle depth of discharge to factors such as flight trajectory and environmental conditions are subsequently examined. This detailed approach to battery modeling at the conceptual design stage is critical for appropriately sizing a battery system to meet the desired range and performance requirements over the entire duration of service.

Automated summary

This paper develops a semiempirical model for predicting degradation in lithium-ion batteries and evaluates the performance of a battery in a general aviation aircraft. Results indicate that the battery life can decrease by as much as 25% within a year of operation. The sensitivity of discharge rate and cycle depth of discharge to flight trajectory and environmental conditions is examined.