Thermal Imaging of Electrochemical Power Systems: A Review

The performance and durability of electrochemical power systems are determined by a complex interdependency of many complex and interrelated factors, temperature and heat transfer being particularly important. This has led to an increasing interest in the use of thermal imaging to understand both the fundamental phenomena and effects of operation on the temperature distribution and dynamics in these systems. This review describes the application thermal imaging and related techniques to the study of electrochemical power systems with the primary focus on fuel cells and batteries. Potential opportunities and directions for future research are also highlighted, indicating the wide scope for further insights to be gleaned using infrared thermal imaging techniques.