Detailed description

The PhD project VENGA focuses on the experimental investigation of venting gas dynamics during thermal runaway events in lithium-ion batteries. Thermal runaway is a critical safety issue in electromobility, where a failing cell releases hot, reactive gases that can lead to fire propagation. A key parameter for understanding and mitigating these events is the velocity distribution of the emitted gases, which strongly influences heat transfer, flame propagation, and the interaction with surrounding components.

Within this project, a novel, non-intrusive measurement system based on tunable diode laser absorption spectroscopy (TDLAS) will be developed. This optical technique enables high-speed measurements of gas properties by analyzing absorption spectra and exploiting Doppler-induced frequency shifts. To move beyond line-of-sight measurements, multiple laser paths will be combined with tomographic reconstruction methods, allowing the spatially resolved determination of gas velocity fields.

The work includes the design and setup of the optical system, experimental validation in controlled gas flows and high-temperature environments, and application under realistic thermal runaway conditions using dedicated test facilities. The generated data will support the development and validation of simulation models and contribute to improved safety concepts for battery systems.