Document Type : Review Article
Authors
1
PhD Student, Department of Biosystems Engineering, Faculty of Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of Mohaghegh Ardabili, Ardabil, Iran
2
Professor,Department of Biosystems Mechanical Engineering,Faculty of Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of Mohaghegh Ardabili, Ardabil, Iran.
10.22091/jaem.2026.17244.1061
Abstract
Thermal management in autonomous vehicles is a systemic issue tied to safety, energy efficiency, performance, and commercial success. No single material satisfies all needs. A hybrid approach using thermal interface materials for rapid heat transfer and phase-change composites for heat storage and temperature control is most effective. Three findings support this. First, experiments show 15–20 °C reduction under transient loads, versus under 5 °C for TIM-only and 10–12 °C for PCC-only. Second, TIMs and PCCs are complementary: TIMs conduct heat quickly, PCCs buffer temperature swings. Third, new dual-functional materials integrate both functions. Industrially, nanomaterials offer high performance but high costs, complex production, and limited durability data block commercialization. Ceramic greases, silicone pads, and expanded graphite composites are less performant but practical for mass production due to reasonable cost, good processability, and proven reliability. Four research directions are identified. Intelligent adaptive systems responding to thermal and environmental changes. Cost reduction for nanostructured materials through novel synthesis and continuous manufacturing. Standardized long-term field tests validating real-world performance and durability. Environmental sustainability and life-cycle assessment from extraction to recycling. Autonomous vehicles depend not only on AI and sensors but also on materials science and thermal engineering transformation. Close collaboration among materials researchers, automotive engineers, electronics specialists, and policymakers will overcome challenges and enable safe, efficient, sustainable autonomous vehicles.
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