Entropy Generation Analysis in Supercapacitor Modules Based on a Three-Dimensional Coupled Thermal Model

Efficient and sustainable thermal management systems are crucial to ensure thermal stability and a long lifespan of supercapacitors. Conventional energy analysis of thermal management schemes does not account for irreversible processes stipulated by the second law of thermodynamics. In this work, an entropy generation analysis based on an improved coupled model is implemented for the first time, with the aim to facilitate the design and optimization of the supercapacitor thermal management systems. Entropy generation analysis accurately quantifies the irreversibilities due to heat transfer and fluid friction of the supercapacitor module, allowing for direct identification of the causes of inefficiency that cannot be achieved by the conventional energy analysis. The improved coupled model incorporates a one-dimensional electrochemical model and three-dimensional thermal models, which provides a complete solution for the transport of species, heat generation and heat transfer of supercapacitor at cell and module levels. The optimal thermal management scheme of the supercapacitor module is obtained by the multiparametric optimization based on four evaluation criteria derived from the coupled energy and entropy generation analyses. This work provides the advanced fundamental and computational frameworks for the development of next-generation, energy-smart thermal management systems for clean and renewable energy conversion and storage modules.