PROBLEM
Batteries perform poorly if they are too hot. As they heat up, chemical reactions occur that cause them to heat up faster and can lead to fires and explosions. If temperatures are too low, batteries suffer internal damage that leads to shorter driving ranges for electric vehicles and less cellphone usage time.
SOLUTION
Purdue University researchers have created patent-pending, solid-state, continuously tunable thermal devices based on compressible graphene foam composites. The devices can dissipate heat, insulate against cold and function across a wide range of temperatures.
PRIMARY INVESTIGATORS
Xiulin Ruan, professor of mechanical engineering, and Amy Marconnet, associate professor of mechanical engineering
IN THE MEDIA
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INNOVATION DISCLOSURE
Innovation Disclosure
LICENSING CONTACTS
Email: otcip@prf.org
MEDIA CONTACT
Email: Steve Martin // sgmartin@prf.org
QUOTE
“The Purdue invention provides a high switching ratio, wide operating temperature range and fast response, providing continuous thermal control and overcoming the disadvantages with hysteresis-based thermal switches.” – Jacob Brejcha, Licensing Associate – Physical Sciences