Molicel P42B Fast charge of the batteries - how to charge the battery quickly without overheating the cells or causing lithium plating which could degrade the battery or cause it to catch fire.
Explore the Molicel P42B battery for fast charging in EVTOL applications, tackling overheating and lithium plating challenges effectively.
Value Propositions
Cylindrical 21700 form factor for compact design.
Nominal capacity of 15.12 Wh and 4.2 Ah for reliable performance.
Top-quartile volumetric energy density of 591 Wh/l for efficient space use.
Maximum continuous discharge of 45.0 A for high power demands.
Gravimetric power density of 2,314 W/kg, ideal for rapid energy delivery.
About the Cell
The Molicel P42B is a cylindrical 21700 lithium-ion cell with a nominal capacity of 15.12 Wh (4.2 Ah). It boasts a volumetric energy density of 591 Wh/l, placing it in the top-quartile compared to the database median of 542 Wh/l. The cell's gravimetric energy density is 216 Wh/kg, which is around the median of 210 Wh/kg. With a maximum continuous discharge of 45.0 A, it supports demanding applications such as UAVs and drones. The volumetric power density is 6,331 W/l, which is among the highest in the database, providing excellent performance for fast charging applications. The cell's design prioritises lightweight construction, making it suitable for high energy density drone batteries.
Application Challenges
In EVTOL applications, fast charging of batteries is critical to ensure operational efficiency. The challenge lies in charging the Molicel P42B quickly without overheating the cells or causing lithium plating, which can degrade battery performance and safety. Effective thermal management is essential to prevent overheating, especially during rapid charge cycles. The high energy density of the P42B allows for compact battery packs, but it also necessitates careful design to manage heat generation during charging. Ensuring reliable performance under these conditions is vital for extending drone flight time and improving UAV mission endurance.
Why this Cell
The Molicel P42B is an excellent choice for EVTOL applications requiring fast charging due to its high maximum continuous discharge of 45.0 A, which is top-quartile compared to the median of 30 A in the database. Its volumetric energy density of 591 Wh/l allows for lightweight drone battery packs, essential for maintaining flight efficiency. The cell's gravimetric power density of 2,314 W/kg supports high discharge rates, making it suitable for demanding UAV operations. This combination of features ensures that the P42B can meet the rigorous demands of fast charging while maintaining safety and performance.
How Model-Based Design Helps
Simulation and model-based design play a crucial role in optimising the performance of the Molicel P42B in EVTOL applications. By modelling load profiles and thermal behaviour, engineers can predict how the cell will perform under various charging conditions. This includes assessing heat generation during rapid charging and understanding voltage sag under load. By simulating these factors, designers can select the best configurations for battery packs, ensuring that the Molicel P42B operates within safe temperature limits while delivering the required energy. This approach reduces the risk of overheating and lithium plating, ultimately enhancing the reliability and safety of UAV operations.
