journal article·2026-07-10

Simulation‐Based Design and Performance Analysis of Energy‐Storage Carbon Fiber Composites

Chunzhi Du, Sitong Zhang, Rui Zhou, Jianhai Liang, Xingjie Zhang

Polymer Composites· Volume 47· Issue 13
Publisher page

Abstract

ABSTRACT Energy‐Storage Carbon Fiber Composites (ESCFCs) represent a promising route toward multifunctional structural systems capable of simultaneously bearing mechanical loads and storing electrical energy. In this work, a coupled electro‐chemo‐mechanical framework is formulated to capture the interaction between lithium diffusion, interfacial charge transfer, and diffusion‐induced stress evolution within carbon fibers. The governing relationships are established by combining solid‐state diffusion theory, charge conservation principles, Butler–Volmer reaction kinetics, and continuum mechanics. The proposed framework is implemented in COMSOL multiphysics to construct a three‐dimensional finite element model, enabling a parametric investigation of key structural variables. Particular emphasis is placed on fiber diameter, fiber spacing, separator thickness, electrolyte properties, and charging rate. Rather than examining isolated effects, the study seeks to identify parameter windows in which mechanical reliability and electrochemical efficiency can be concurrently optimized. The simulations reveal that, for solid electrolytes with relatively high ionic conductivity and modulus, reducing fiber diameter and moderately increasing fiber spacing effectively alleviate stress concentration within the fibers. In contrast, when the electrolyte exhibits limited conductivity and lower stiffness, excessive separator thickness aggravates polarization phenomena, whereas thinner structural configurations help relieve internal stress. Additionally, elevated charging rates intensify concentration gradients and polarization effects, leading to a noticeable decline in charging efficiency.
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Research context

OpenAlex topics: Advanced Battery Materials and Technologies · Fiber-reinforced polymer composites · Smart Materials for Construction

SciVX discovery tags are terminology-based. OpenAlex topics are source-provided classifications.

Affiliations

College of Aeronautical Engineering, Civil Aviation University of China Tianjin China

College of Transportation Science and Engineering, Civil Aviation University of China Tianjin China

Shaanxi Aerospace Commercial Liquid Rocket Engine Co., Ltd Baoji China

Funding

Civil Aviation University of China · Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities

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