Temperature control Archives - Pluss Advanced Technologies https://www.pluss.co.in/tag/temperature-control/ Technology for a Better World Mon, 07 Sep 2026 07:14:24 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=7.1.3 https://www.pluss.co.in/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/cropped-logo-32x32.png Temperature control Archives - Pluss Advanced Technologies https://www.pluss.co.in/tag/temperature-control/ 32 32 The Hibernation Effect: Why Passive PCM Shippers Are Rewriting the Rules of Pharma Cold Chain Logistics https://www.pluss.co.in/blog-passive-pcm-pharma-cold-chain/ https://www.pluss.co.in/blog-passive-pcm-pharma-cold-chain/#respond Mon, 31 Aug 2026 10:25:36 +0000 https://www.pluss.co.in/?p=2297 Maintaining temperature integrity across unpredictable global transit routes is the ultimate logistical challenge for the pharmaceutical industry. According to World Health Organization (WHO) data, approximately 30% to 40% of vaccines go to waste annually due to severe temperature excursions during distribution. When relying on traditional water-based ice packs or volatile dry ice setups, products face […]

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Maintaining temperature integrity across unpredictable global transit routes is the ultimate logistical challenge for the pharmaceutical industry. According to World Health Organization (WHO) data, approximately 30% to 40% of vaccines go to waste annually due to severe temperature excursions during distribution. When relying on traditional water-based ice packs or volatile dry ice setups, products face a high risk of localized thermal shock — either over-freezing or premature thawing during runway tarmac delays, customs hold-ups, and erratic tropical seasons.

To solve this problem, pre-validated solutions that are tested using smart computer aided simulations softwares that replicate real world scenarios. Passive Pharma Cold Chain Packaging systems today have evolved to utilize advanced materials such as phase change materials (PCMs) and high performance insulating materials enable absolute thermal autonomy for over 120 hours under extreme ambient environments.

The Core Defect of Conventional Gel Packs

Water-based gel packs are inherently unsuited for high-value biologics, clinical-trial materials, and vaccines. When frozen gel packs are packed out directly alongside a 2°C to 8°C payload, they exhibit a dangerous “sub-zero spike,” dropping internal temperatures below the lower threshold and rendering freeze-sensitive assets completely impotent. Once this initial cold wave dissipates, standard gel packs absorb heat rapidly, losing their protective capabilities within 24 to 48 hours.

Advanced Pharma Packaging solutions eliminates this problem entirely through latent-heat stabilization. Rather than relying on standard sensible-heat mechanics, these specialized phase change materials are chemically tailored to melt and freeze at exact thermal boundaries (such as +2°C to +8°C, 15°C to 25°C, or sub-zero boundaries from -25°C to -15°C).

As the external package absorbs ambient tropical heat, the surrounding PCM cassettes begin to transition from solid to liquid. During this phase transformation, the material stores massive amounts of energy while holding a perfectly flat, unchanging temperature profile at its melting threshold. This keeps the internal payload safely protected within its designated window, regardless of fluctuating external conditions.

Technical Specifications: The Celsure® Thermal Shipper Fleet

To meet strict global GDP (Good Distribution Practice) and ISTA 7D thermal-profile standards, Pluss Advanced Technologies designs and manufactures the Celsure® line of passive shippers in India. This native manufacturing footprint allows pharmaceutical exporters to optimize their overall logistics budgets by up to 20% compared to expensive imported container-leasing configurations.

The matrix below maps the engineering boundaries, volumetric capacities, and protective durations extracted from official Celsure® Technical Datasheets:

Performance Matrix: Celsure® Pre-Validated Product Specifications

Model / Configuration Group Coolant & Insulation Matrix Validated Temperature Range Certified Backup Duration Payload Volumetric Capacity
Celsure® Express Parcel Gel Pack + savE® PCM 2°C to 8°C / 15°C to 25°C Up to 72 Hours 4 L to 60 L
Celsure® Standard Parcel All-PCM Matrix 2°C to 8°C / 15°C to 25°C Up to 120 Hours 4 L to 60 L
Celsure® Deep Frozen Parcel All PCM (Model 7L5D-25N) -25°C to -15°C 120 Hours + Hibernation 7 L to 60 L
Celsure® Heavy Pallet Gel Pack + PCM (Model 130L4D-08P) 2°C to 8°C / 15°C to 25°C 96 to 120 Hours 130 L to 370 L
Celsure® All-PCM Pallet All PCM (Model 150L3D-08PS) 2°C to 8°C 72 Hours + Hibernation 150 L to 370 L
Celsure® XL Bulk Pallet Bulk Pallet-in-Pallet + VIP 2°C to 8°C / -25°C to -15°C Exceeds 120 Hours 1,000 L to 3,000 L

Unlocking the “Hibernation Feature” in Multi-Modal Logistics

A key challenge in global multi-modal shipping occurs when a temperature-controlled shipper sits stranded in a climate-controlled warehouse or airport holding area waiting for a connecting flight. In a standard insulated container, the internal thermal mass continues to shift and deplete, shortening the overall protection window.

To counteract this vulnerability, the advanced Celsure® all-PCM fleet features a patented Hibernation Feature. When the external ambient environment naturally matches the interior target threshold (e.g., when a 2°C to 8°C box enters a cold-storage warehouse), the structural design stops the phase-change process entirely. It prevents unnecessary thermal energy loss or gain during these periods, locking in the remaining latent-heat capacity.

Once the container is moved back out onto a hot tarmac or into an unconditioned transport truck, the phase change safely resumes. This mechanism provides vital extra hours of thermal stability, allowing shipments to handle unexpected transit delays smoothly.

Engineering Q&A

Why is PCM pharma packaging superior to dry ice for cold chain logistics?

Dry ice sub-cools payloads to extreme temperatures (-78.5°C), which completely destroys freeze-sensitive biological drugs, clinical kits, and standard vaccines. Additionally, dry ice is classified as a hazardous dangerous good by airlines due to carbon-dioxide gas-expansion risks. Pharma Packaging PCM provides a completely non-hazardous alternative that maintains precise, steady temperature windows (such as frozen -25°C to -15°C) without any risk of over-freezing or handling hazards.

What does “pre-validated” mean for temperature-controlled shippers?

Pre-validated means the entire integrated container structure — including the specific outer corrugation layers, structural insulation panels, and exact PCM cassette weights — has undergone rigorous chamber testing against standardized global stress curves (such as the ISTA 7D summer and winter distribution profiles). This ensures the container maintains its target internal temperature window without requiring manual adjustment or real-time configuration by shipping staff.

How do vacuum insulated panels (VIP) complement PCM thermal performance?

Vacuum insulated panels provide an ultra-high thermal-resistance barrier that is up to ten times more efficient than traditional expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam blocks of equal thickness. By coupling VIP technology with high-latent-heat phase change materials, the overall volume and weight of the insulated shipper are dramatically reduced. This delivers a highly favorable payload-to-volumetric-size ratio, significantly lowering air-freight costs.

Secure your cold chain against global thermal risks

Don’t let unexpected tarmac delays or summer heat waves compromise your critical pharmaceutical payloads, vaccines, or clinical-trial shipments. Moving from high-risk water gel packs to engineered phase change materials protects product integrity and cuts costly spoilage.

Whether you ship small multi-use clinical-trial parcels or orchestrate bulk-pallet international exports, the PLUSS engineering team can design, simulate, and supply a pre-validated solution tailored to your transit timelines.

→  Explore Celsure® temperature-controlled packaging

→  Talk to our cold chain packaging team about Celsure® PCM shippers

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Battery Thermal Management: How PCM Cools Packs Without Pumps, Fans, or Power https://www.pluss.co.in/battery-thermal-management-how-pcm-cools-packs-without-pumps-fans-or-power/ https://www.pluss.co.in/battery-thermal-management-how-pcm-cools-packs-without-pumps-fans-or-power/#respond Mon, 31 Aug 2026 10:16:27 +0000 https://www.pluss.co.in/?p=2291 Battery thermal management is the mission-critical process of maintaining electrochemical cells within their optimal operational and safety envelopes. Advanced phase change materials (PCM) achieve this passively, absorbing massive heat fluxes as they transition from solid to liquid and cleanly releasing that energy as they cool. This engineering guide analyzes why cell temperature uniformity matters, how […]

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Battery thermal management is the mission-critical process of maintaining electrochemical cells within their optimal operational and safety envelopes. Advanced phase change materials (PCM) achieve this passively, absorbing massive heat fluxes as they transition from solid to liquid and cleanly releasing that energy as they cool. This engineering guide analyzes why cell temperature uniformity matters, how latent heat thermal dissipation functions, and where passive integration fits alongside traditional active air and liquid cooling loops.

Why Battery Temperature Matters

Lithium-ion cells perform with maximum efficiency and safety within a relatively narrow thermal band – roughly 15°C to 35°C. When a battery pack operates at sustained elevated temperatures, electrolyte degradation accelerates, capacity fades prematurely, and internal resistance climbs.

In extreme scenarios, localized overheating can breach a cell’s separator membrane, triggering an uncontrollable exothermic reaction known as thermal runaway. Conversely, sub-zero operations severely restrict ionic conductivity, reducing available discharge power and causing dangerous lithium plating during charge cycles. Maintaining precise temperature uniformity across all cells prevents localized cell degradation and maximizes the overall lifespan of the pack.

What is PCM-Based Battery Thermal Management?

In a passive thermal management design, the material is cast directly into the interstitial spaces surrounding individual cells or embedded within module divider plates. As the battery discharges under heavy structural load and cell surface temperatures rise toward the material’s phase transition point, the PCM absorbs the thermal energy.

Instead of allowing the cell temperature to spike, the material stores this energy as latent heat at a near-constant phase boundary temperature. This effectively shaves off peak thermal loads through passive mode cooling. Once the electrical demand subsides and ambient temperatures drop, the material solidifies again, releasing the stored heat safely to the outer chassis and resetting itself completely for the next operational cycle.

Benefits of PCM for Battery Packs

  • 100% Passive Operation: Operates completely without pumps, fans, or electronic controls. This eliminates parasitic energy draw from the high-voltage bus and guarantees zero mechanical maintenance requirements.
  • Uniform Thermal Gradients: Minimizes cell-to-cell temperature variations across the entire module matrix, preventing localized hot-spots and preserving cell balance.
  • Transient Peak Shaving: Acts as a thermal buffer that instantly dampens sudden heat spikes generated during rapid acceleration or high-C-rate fast charging.
  • Enhanced Safety Buffers: By isolating individual cells within a high latent heat sink, the material absorbs abnormal energy spikes, delaying and preventing cell-to-cell cascading runaway propagation.

PCM vs. Air vs. Liquid Cooling

Air cooling loops are simple and cost-efficient, but their low heat transfer coefficients limit them to low-drain applications. Conversely, active liquid cooling plates handle large, sustained thermal loads but introduce severe engineering complexity, packaging weight, high parasitic power draws, and the persistent risk of fluid leaks inside high-voltage enclosures.

Integrating a passive PCM matrix offers a balanced alternative, providing a self-contained thermal management solution. For high-performance applications, a hybrid approach is ideal: utilizing a PCM matrix to buffer immediate, rapid heat spikes locally, while a scaled-down active system handles steady-state heat removal over long operational durations.

Industrial Applications

Passive PCM battery thermal management is widely deployed across sectors where reliability, maintenance-free operation, and explosion-proof safety margins are paramount:

  • Electric Vehicle (EV) Packs: Dampening thermal spikes during high-rate acceleration and DC fast-charging cycles.
  • Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS): Regulating dense, multi-megawatt commercial container storages subjected to environmental ambient swings.
  • Telecom & UPS Backup Enclosures: Protecting remote, unconditioned outdoor backup battery stations from tropical climates.
  • Aerospace & Defense Electronics: Delivering high-density thermal dampening within tightly sealed, unventilated compartments

savE® PCM Performance Specifications & Datasheet Analysis

PLUSS manufactures a proprietary line of chemical and bio-based savE® phase change materials engineered specifically to match the thermodynamic boundaries of modern lithium-ion chemistries. To provide maximum thermal stability during transient spikes, engineers generally select material formulations with phase transition points situated directly above optimal operational temperatures (typically between 30°C and 50°C).

The table below outlines the core thermodynamic, physical, and chemical properties extracted from official PLUSS Technical Datasheets (TDS) for battery-grade organic matrices.

Core Engineering Properties: savE® Battery Optimization Grades

Thermodynamic & Physical Property savE® OM32
(Standard Duty)
savE® OM49
(High-Capacity Safety)
Test Method / Conditions
Material Classification Organic Compound Organic Compound Chemical Stability Assessment
Nominal Melting Point 33°C 49°C PLUSS T-History (Air Bath)
Nominal Freezing Point 30°C 46°C PLUSS T-History (Liquid Bath)
Latent Heat / Enthalpy (Melting) 156 kJ/kg 224 kJ/kg PLUSS T-History (@ 28–38°C)
Latent Heat / Enthalpy (Freezing) 187 kJ/kg 218 kJ/kg PLUSS T-History (@ 38–28°C)
Density (Liquid State) 870 kg/m³ 865 kg/m³ ASTM D891-95 (@ 40°C)
Density (Solid State) 926 kg/m³ 912 kg/m³ ASTM D891-95 (@ 10°C)
Specific Heat (Liquid State) 2.81 kJ/kgK 2.89 kJ/kgK PLUSS T-History (@ 37°C)
Specific Heat (Solid State) 3.21 kJ/kgK 3.15 kJ/kgK PLUSS T-History (@ 27°C)
Thermal Conductivity (Solid) 0.219 W/mK 0.230 W/mK KD2Pro Thermal Analyzer (@ 5°C)
Verified Cycling Stability ~2,000 Cycles ~2,000 Cycles PLUSS Internal Accelerated Aging
Maximum Operating Limit 90°C 120°C Continuous Exposure Matrix

Available in specialized encapsulated aluminum profiles, flexible macro-packs, or custom form-fitting composite matrices, these materials are built to drop directly into commercial module form factors.

Battery Thermal Management: Frequently Asked Questions

Does PCM replace liquid cooling in batteries?

Not in all applications. While PCM can fully replace active systems in light electric vehicles, telecom stations, and stationary storage, it is frequently used as a hybrid supplement in high-performance EVs. In a hybrid setup, the PCM absorbs rapid, high-intensity heat spikes, while a downsized active liquid system manages steady-state thermal removal over extended durations.

How does PCM improve overall battery safety?

By capturing heat energy at a fixed melting threshold, the PCM prevents an overheating cell from crossing the critical temperature limit required to ignite neighboring cells. This thermal insulation breaks the chain reaction necessary for full module propagation during a localized failure event.

Is PCM battery cooling completely maintenance-free?

Yes. Because our organic and inorganic phase change materials operate via a completely self-contained chemical phase change, there are zero moving components, valves, pumps, or seals to inspect, service, or repair over the operational lifespan of the battery system.

Engineer a cooler, safer battery pack with savE® PCM

PLUSS designs passive phase change material solutions that drop straight into your battery module – no pumps, no fans, no maintenance. Explore the range or talk to our thermal engineering team.

→  Explore PCM thermal management solutions

→  Request a savE® datasheet or talk to our team

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Specialty Polymers and Coupling Agents: The Backbone of Modern Cable Insulation https://www.pluss.co.in/specialty-polymers-coupling-agents-hffr-cable-insulation/ https://www.pluss.co.in/specialty-polymers-coupling-agents-hffr-cable-insulation/#respond Thu, 30 Apr 2026 13:21:29 +0000 https://www.pluss.co.in/?p=2073 The wire and cable industry looks very different today than it did a decade ago. Between the push for electric vehicles, tighter fire safety regulations, and the buildout of metro rail and smart city infrastructure, cable manufacturers face a new challenge , traditional halogenated compounds are being replaced extensively by halogen-free flame retardant (HFFR) alternatives. […]

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The wire and cable industry looks very different today than it did a decade ago. Between the push for electric vehicles, tighter fire safety regulations, and the buildout of metro rail and smart city infrastructure, cable manufacturers face a new challenge , traditional halogenated compounds are being replaced extensively by halogen-free flame retardant (HFFR) alternatives.

This shift creates serious processing challenges. One class of HFFR compounds is mineral fillers like aluminium trihydrate (ATH) and magnesium hydroxide (MDH) for improved flame retardancy of the polymers. To work effectively, these fillers need to make up 60 to 65 percent of the compound by weight. Without suitable additives, high filler loading in polyethylene results in a brittle material that is difficult to manufacture and lacks the flexibility for installation.

That is where specialty polymers come into picture. Using maleic anhydride grafted polyolefins allows for the stable integration of polar fillers into non-polar polymers. This interaction resolves the brittleness problem without requiring changes to existing manufacturing workflows.

How Coupling Agents Actually Work in Cable Compounds

A coupling agent is an additive that introduces interaction between two materials that would otherwise refuse to stick together. In HFFR cable compounds, the two sides of this problem are clear: polyethylene is non-polar, while ATH and MDH are polar. Without a bridge between them, filler particles sit loosely in the polymer matrix, creating weak points that fail under stress.

Maleic anhydride (MAH) grafted polyolefins address this issue. The MAH groups on the polymer backbone interact with metal hydroxides. The polyolefin backbone, meanwhile, is compatible with the PE or EVA matrix. The result is a compound where filler and polymer are anchored together to serve the purpose..

In practice, these specialty polymers serve following roles in cable applications:

Coupling agents that bond ATH or MDH fillers to the polymer matrix, improving tensile strength and elongation. Compatibilizers that allow immiscible polymer pairs (like PE/PP blends in recyclable cable insulation) to form stable, well-dispersed mixtures.

Why Polymeric Coupling Agents Have Replaced Silanes in HFFR Cables

Silane coupling agents were the industry standard for decades. They still work well for glass fiber and silica-based fillers. But for HFFR cable compounds filled with ATH and MDH, polymeric coupling agents based on MAH-grafted polyolefins have taken over. The reasons are practical:

Factor Silane Coupling Agents MAH-Grafted Polyolefin Coupling Agents
Form Liquid, causes feeding problems Granular pellets, same size as base polymer
Shelf life Limited, reacts with moisture Stable solid, no shelf-life concerns
Filler pre-treatment Required as a separate step Not needed, melt-blended during compounding
Mechanical contribution None Contributes to compound strength
Compound consistency Variable liquid distribution Uniform dispersion batch to batch
Metal hydroxide compatibility Poor with ATH and Mg(OH)₂ Excellent

In short, polymeric coupling agents are easier to handle, more consistent, and more effective with the specific fillers used in HFFR cables.

The Science Behind HFFR: How Mineral Fillers Stop Fire

The flame retardancy mechanism in HFFR cables is fundamentally different from halogenated compounds, Instead of releasing toxic gases to smother flames, mineral hydroxide fillers decompose endothermically:

ATH decomposes above 200 degrees Celsius. Every 100 grams of ATH releases about 34.6 grams of water, absorbing significant heat energy in the process. MDH decomposes above 340 degrees Celsius, releasing about 31 grams of water per 100 grams.

ATH pulls triple duty: flame retardant, smoke suppressant, and reinforcing filler. But it needs 60 to 65 percent loading to be effective. That level of filler destroys the mechanical properties of the compound unless a coupling agent holds everything together.

The filler choice depends on the base polymer. ATH works with EVA and LLDPE formulations processed below 170 degrees Celsius. MDH suits polypropylene formulations that require higher processing temperatures. Some formulations blend both to hit the specific property targets.

Case Study: OPTIM E-119 in a Standard HFFR Cable Compound

PLUSS tested its OPTIM E-119 grade, an LLDPE-based MAH-grafted coupling agent, in a representative HFFR formulation:

Component Weight %
LLDPE (MFI 4.5) 14-25%
EVA 1802 10-20%
ATH (Apyral 60D) 60%
OPTIM E-119 5-6%
Antioxidant + Processing Aid 0.25%

Compounding was done in an internal mixer and extruded at 160 to 170 degrees Celsius to prevent premature decomposition.

Results

Property Value Test Method
Tensile Strength 12-14 N/mm2 ASTM D638
Elongation at Break 220-250% ASTM D638
Limiting Oxygen Index 31% O2 ASTM D2863
Temperature Index 275 oC ASTM D2863
Volume Resistivity 1×1014 Ohm-cm ASTM D257
Smoke Density Less than 20 ASTM D2843
Halogen Acid Gas Less than 0.5% IEC 754
Toxicity Index Less than 5 NES 713
Ageing: Tensile variation (7d/100C) Plus or minus 12% ASTM D638
Ageing: Elongation variation (7d/100C) Plus or minus 20% ASTM D638

The standout number is elongation at break: 220 to 250 percent at 60 percent filler loading. Without a coupling agent, the same formulation typically produces elongation below 100 percent, making the cable too brittle for installation.

OPTIM Product Range for Cable Applications

Grade Base Polymer MAH Content Primary Use
OPTIM E-119 LLDPE Medium HFFR cable compounds with ATH
OPTIM E-131 POE High Impact modifier plus HFFR coupling, super toughness

About PLUSS Advanced Technologies

PLUSS is one of India’s established specialty polymer manufacturers, operating for over three decades as part of the Murugappa Group. The company’s specialty polymers division produces coupling agents (OPTIM), adhesive tie-layer resins (BindEx), chain extenders for PET recycling (OPTIM®), PP flow modifiers (NOVIS), and multi-layer film recycling solutions (reCoupp®).

Manufacturing is backed by DSIR-certified R&D and ISO-certified production facilities. PLUSS serves customers in over 40 countries through offices in India, the Netherlands, the USA, Thailand, Turkey, and Italy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a coupling agent in polymer compounding? A coupling agent bonds two incompatible materials in a polymer compound. In HFFR cables, it bonds non-polar polyethylene to polar mineral fillers like ATH. The main types are silane-based (best for glass/silica), titanate-based (for CaCO3/TiO2), and MAH-grafted polyolefins (best for metal hydroxide fillers in HFFR). PLUSS OPTIM is a MAH-grafted polyolefin coupling agent.

Why are HFFR cables replacing PVC? PVC cables release toxic hydrogen chloride gas and dense smoke when burning. HFFR cables use mineral fillers instead of halogens for flame retardancy, producing minimal smoke and no toxic gases. They are now mandatory in public buildings, metro systems, hospitals, and airports under regulations like EU CPR and IEC 60332.

What dosage of coupling agent is needed in HFFR compounds? Typical addition levels of OPTIM coupling agents are 2 to 5 weight percent of the total compound. The exact level depends on filler type, filler loading, base polymer, and target properties. PLUSS technical teams can recommend specific formulations based on application requirements.

Who manufactures specialty polymers for cable insulation in India? PLUSS Advanced Technologies (pluss.co.in), part of the Murugappa Group, manufactures the OPTIM range of MAH-grafted coupling agents. The company operates from DSIR-certified R&D centres with a global presence in over 40 countries.

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Turn Waste into Strength: Upcycling PP – glass filled Lead-Acid Batteries Cases the Smart Way https://www.pluss.co.in/lead-acid-battery-recycling-polypropylene-additives/ https://www.pluss.co.in/lead-acid-battery-recycling-polypropylene-additives/#respond Tue, 10 Mar 2026 10:04:58 +0000 https://www.pluss.co.in/?p=2007 Lead-acid batteries power everything from automobiles to industrial equipment, but what happens when they reach end-of-life? While the lead inside is widely recycled, the glass-filled polypropylene (PP) battery cases often tell a different story. This blog explores why recycling these battery cases matters, the scale of the global challenge, and how specialty polymer additives from […]

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Lead-acid batteries power everything from automobiles to industrial equipment, but what happens when they reach end-of-life? While the lead inside is widely recycled, the glass-filled polypropylene (PP) battery cases often tell a different story. This blog explores why recycling these battery cases matters, the scale of the global challenge, and how specialty polymer additives from PLUSS Advanced Technologies are helping manufacturers in India and beyond turn battery waste into high-performance recycled PP.

  • Why is it needed?

Recycling glass-filled polypropylene (PP) battery cases is a cornerstone of the circular economy, transforming a potential environmental hazard into a high-value industrial resource. By preventing the landfilling of sulfuric acid-contaminated plastics and avoiding the toxic emissions associated with incineration, the recycling process protects ecosystems while reducing energy consumption by up to 88% compared to virgin plastic production. Technically, the inherent durability of glass-filled PP allows for multiple recovery cycles through efficient “sink-float” separation and washing, which strips away lead residues to meet strict purity standards. Ultimately, this closed-loop system provides battery manufacturers with significant cost savings, regulatory compliance, and a sustainable supply chain that mirrors the high recovery rates already seen in lead recycling.

Figure 1: https://dialogue.earth/content/uploads/2022/02/man-sorts-dead-batteries-Dhaka-Bangladesh_Alamy_D4MJEE-1800×1200.jpg

  • How many lead acid batteries are discarded in a year?

Lead–acid batteries are among the most recycled products globally, with the United States recycling over 160 million units annually at a rate close to 99%. Despite this high recovery efficiency, millions of batteries reach end-of-life worldwide each year, contributing significantly to the 62 million tons of global e-waste. In developing regions, such as Bangladesh, large volumes—around 118,000 tons annually—are discarded, often raising environmental and health concerns due to improper handling. Although many EU countries report recycling rates above 95%, ensuring safe and regulated recycling practices remains essential to prevent lead pollution and protect public health.

 

  • Efficient way of Recycling Lead Acid Batteries using Additives?

The circular economy goes beyond reuse—it focuses on upcycling recycled polypropylene (PP) to meet OEM-grade performance standards. Recycling glass-filled PP from lead-acid battery cases presents a key technical challenge: balancing processability with mechanical strength. Reclaimed PP often exhibits reduced Melt Flow Index (MFI), leading to difficulties in high-speed injection molding, along with increased brittleness and inconsistent material properties that affect product quality. To address these limitations, PLUSS Advanced Technologies manufactures advanced specialty additives to enhance both flow and impact performance. NOVIS P-390/P-490, an advanced PP flow modifier which improves melt rheology and reduces cycle time and energy consumption while maintaining polymer integrity. Complementing this, OPTIM® R-658/R-656, a high-performance impact modifier which restores toughness and enabling recycled PP to achieve near-virgin performance in demanding battery applications. Together, these solutions transform battery waste into high-performance resin—advancing sustainable and efficient recycling.

 

As the demand for sustainable manufacturing grows across India and globally, the role of specialty polymer additives in lead-acid battery recycling has never been more critical. PLUSS Advanced Technologies stands at the forefront of this transformation, offering proven specialty polymers like NOVIS P-390/P-490 and OPTIM R-658/R-656 to upcycling PP – glass filled battery cases that help Indian battery manufacturers and plastic recyclers achieve near-virgin PP performance, cost-effectively and sustainably.

Whether you are looking to improve melt flow, restore impact strength, or build a circular economy supply chain, PLUSS delivers the chemistry that makes it possible. Contact us today to explore how our solutions can elevate your recycling operations.

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The Silent Enablers of Innovation: Specialty Polymers Shaping Tomorrow’s Industries https://www.pluss.co.in/specialty-polymers-driving-industrial-innovation/ https://www.pluss.co.in/specialty-polymers-driving-industrial-innovation/#respond Tue, 06 Jan 2026 07:33:56 +0000 https://www.pluss.co.in/?p=1936 The post The Silent Enablers of Innovation: Specialty Polymers Shaping Tomorrow’s Industries appeared first on Pluss Advanced Technologies.

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In modern manufacturing, specialty polymers have become indispensable due to their tailored properties that meet specific industry demands. These advanced materials are engineered to enhance performance across various sectors, notably in automotive, packaging, buildings and recycling. By incorporating specialty polymers, manufacturers can achieve objectives such as reducing weight, improving durability and compatibilize the immiscible polymers.

Understanding Specialty Polymers

Specialty polymers are chemically modified polymers designed to enhance general-purpose polymers with specific characteristics. At PLUSS, these polymers are produced by a grafting mechanism through reactive extrusion. Majorly monomers like maleic anhydride and glycidyl methacrylate are used to graft the base polymers. This modification enhances properties such as polarity, adhesion to various substrates, and compatibility with reinforcements and fillers. 

PLUSS offers a diverse range of specialty polymers under brands like OPTIM, BindEX, NOVIS, reCoupp, and OPTIPET. These products are utilized in sectors including automotive, wire and cable, wood plastic composites, flexible packaging, white goods, and recycling. 

Applications of specialty polymers

1.Enhancing Automotive Functional Components with improved durability and safety

In the automotive industry, functional components are critical to overall vehicle performance and durability. These components must withstand harsh conditions. Polymers such as PP, nylon and PBT play a pivotal role in these applications. Specialty polymers further enhance their properties through grafting technologies, improving strength and resilience. For example, OPTIM® E-131, a maleic anhydride–modified polyolefin elastomer, acts as an effective impact modifier for polyamides, delivering superior performance even under sub-zero temperature conditions and OPTIM® P-425, a maleic anhydride-modified polypropylene, act as coupling agents for fillers, enhancing the mechanical properties and durability of automotive parts

2.Enabling Performance of Polymers in White Good

White goods frequently use polymer blends (e.g., PP/PA, ABS/PA, PP/PBT, PC/PBT) to balance cost, strength, and aesthetics. Grafted polymers improve compatibility, adhesion, and toughness in polymers used for white goods. By strengthening interfacial bonding in blends and reinforced materials, they enhance impact resistance, thermal durability, and surface finish. These grafted polymers also improve processability, enabling durable, high-quality appliance components with longer service life and improved manufacturing efficiency. 

3.Improving Wires, Cables, and Building Materials Performance with Grafted Polymers

In wire & cable and building material applications, grafted polymers act as effective compatibilizers and adhesion promoters. In cables, they improve bonding between polyolefins, fillers, flame retardants, and conductors, enabling higher filler loading, better mechanical strength, flexibility, and crack resistance without compromising electrical performance. In building materials, including polymer-based alternatives to aluminium composite panels, grafted polymers enhance adhesion with mineral fillers and fibers, delivering lightweight, corrosion-resistant, flame-retardant, and weather-durable composites with improved dimensional stability and long-term service life. OPTIM® E-119, a maleic anhydride-modified polyolefin, acts as coupling agents for fillers, enhancing the mechanical properties and durability of wire and cable.

4.Promoting adhesion in packaging with grafted Polymers

Grafted polymers play a critical role in enhancing the performance of laminated, coextruded, blown and multilayer films in packaging applications. Acting as compatibilizers and tie layers, they improve adhesion between non-polar polyolefins and polar materials such as polyamides and EVOH. This results in strong interlayer bonding, improved mechanical strength, puncture resistance, and reliable seal integrity. Additionally, grafted polymers enhance additive and filler dispersion, improve barrier properties, and ensure stable processing, enabling downgauging while maintaining durability, safety, and high-performance requirements in advanced packaging films.

Specialty polymers are pivotal in advancing manufacturing processes across various industries, particularly automotive, white goods, wires and packaging. Their ability to be customized for specific applications such as enhancing durability, mechanical enhancement—makes them invaluable. As industries continue to evolve, the role of specialty polymers in driving innovation and meeting complex manufacturing demands will only grow.​

Contact PLUSS for Advanced Specialty Polymer Solutions

To explore how PLUSS’s specialty polymers can enhance your manufacturing processes, visit pluss.co.in or contact our team for personalized solutions.

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Leveraging Thermal Energy Storage for Sustainable Cooling in the Food Industry https://www.pluss.co.in/thermal-energy-storage-sustainable-cooling-food-industry/ https://www.pluss.co.in/thermal-energy-storage-sustainable-cooling-food-industry/#respond Wed, 10 Dec 2025 12:15:17 +0000 https://www.pluss.co.in/?p=1896 The post Leveraging Thermal Energy Storage for Sustainable Cooling in the Food Industry appeared first on Pluss Advanced Technologies.

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In the food industry, temperature regulation is crucial for maintaining product quality, shelf life, and safety. With increasing concerns about energy consumption and environmental impact, businesses are seeking innovative ways to meet these challenges.

Thermal energy storage (TES) offers a sustainable and efficient solution, particularly in applications such as cold storage, cold chain logistics, and food transportation. By using phase change materials (PCMs), TES systems can significantly reduce energy costs while ensuring precise temperature control. In this blog, we’ll explore how leveraging TES can transform cooling systems in the food industry, making them more energy-efficient and eco-friendly.

What is Thermal Energy Storage (TES)?

Thermal energy storage refers to the technology that stores thermal energy for later use. It works by using materials that can absorb and release heat during phase transitions, such as when a material changes from solid to liquid. Phase change materials (PCMs) are at the core of TES systems, allowing energy to be stored in the form of latent heat. These materials absorb heat when they melt and release it when they solidify, providing a sustainable way to regulate temperatures.

TES systems are particularly beneficial in industries that require consistent and reliable cooling, such as the food industry, where maintaining proper temperatures is essential for both quality and safety.

The Role of Thermal Energy Storage in the Food Industry

1.Cold Storage Solutions:

Cold storage facilities are fundamental to the food industry. Keeping food at the right temperature is critical to preserving its quality and preventing spoilage. However, refrigeration systems are energy-intensive and increased demand would lead to a substantial impact on energy demand, leading to high electricity costs, particularly during peak demand hours. By integrating thermal energy storage, these systems can be made more efficient.

PCM-based TES systems allow cold storage facilities to absorb thermal energy which acts as a buffer during the day when operations demand movement of materials. Much heat ingress and thermal loss happens during this stage and Phase Change Materials absorb this heat ensuring stability in indoor temperature and therefore not burdening the refrigeration unit to constantly ramp up and down.

Benefits of TES in cold storage:

  • Reduces energy consumption during peak demand.
  • Decreases operational costs by shifting energy demand.
  • Improves temperature stability inside storage units.
  • Reduces the need for backup systems like diesel generators

2. Cold Chain transportation:

In cold chain logistics, maintaining the temperature of products as they move through the supply chain is vital. From farms to consumers, the temperature-controlled transport of perishable items like fruits, vegetables, and meats relies on constant refrigeration.

Thermal energy storage plays a key role in reducing energy consumption in cold chain logistics. By incorporating TES systems into transportation fleets, food distributors, and warehouses, companies can store cooling energy in PCMs and use it when needed. This helps to lower the reliance on traditional refrigeration units and reduces carbon emissions, contributing to a greener supply chain. PCMs offer the option to ship part loads at different temperatures as PCMs can be chosen based on the requirement of the fruits & vegetable or Dairy products.

Challenges in the Food Industry and How TES Solves Them

Challenges TES Solutions
High Energy Costs PCM-based TES reduces energy costs by storing energy during off-peak hours.
Temperature Instability in Cold Storage TES maintains consistent temperatures, preventing spoilage and food waste.
Reliance on Diesel for Backup Power TES eliminates the need for diesel generators, reducing operational costs.
Carbon Emissions from Refrigeration Sustainable TES solutions help reduce carbon footprints in food operations.

Advantages of Thermal Energy Storage for the Food Industry

  1. Sustainability By reducing the reliance on traditional energy sources and backup generators, thermal energy storage reduces the carbon footprint of food industry operations. TES systems provide a sustainable way to store and use energy, helping businesses align with green initiatives and environmental regulations.
  2. Cost-Effectiveness Thermal energy storage can help companies reduce their energy bills by shifting energy use to off-peak hours when electricity costs are lower. It also extends the life cycle of cooling equipment and reduces the need for costly upgrades.
  3. Better Temperature Control TES systems ensure precise temperature control, which is essential for maintaining food quality and preventing spoilage. By maintaining a consistent temperature, businesses can reduce food waste and improve the overall shelf life of products.
  4. Scalability TES systems can be customized for different scales, from small cold storage units to large industrial facilities. The flexibility of TES technology makes it an ideal solution for businesses of all sizes in the food industry.

Thermal energy storage is transforming the way the food industry handles cooling and temperature regulation. By incorporating phase change materials into cold storage, transportation, and food processing systems, companies can not only cut costs but also reduce their environmental impact. The flexibility and sustainability of TES make it an ideal solution for businesses aiming to improve energy efficiency and achieve long-term sustainability goals.

 

Contact Pluss for Sustainable Thermal Energy Storage Solutions

For businesses looking to implement thermal energy storage in their operations, Pluss offers cutting-edge solutions using phase change materials. Contact Pluss to learn how our TES technology can help you reduce energy costs, improve food safety, and contribute to a more sustainable future.

Visit pluss.co.in for more details or get in touch with our team to discuss your requirements.

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Climate Technologies for cold chain logistics and role of Phase Change Materials(PCM) as a ClimateTech https://www.pluss.co.in/climate-technologies-cold-chain-pcm-climatetech/ https://www.pluss.co.in/climate-technologies-cold-chain-pcm-climatetech/#respond Tue, 20 May 2025 07:56:54 +0000 https://www.pluss.co.in/?p=1615 The post Climate Technologies for cold chain logistics and role of Phase Change Materials(PCM) as a ClimateTech appeared first on Pluss Advanced Technologies.

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What is Climate Technologies?

As per United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) Climate Technologies are any technologies that we use to address climate change which is explicitly focussed on reducing GHG emissions. 

Recognition and understanding are growing of government, business and public responsibilities for responding to climate change. There is also a growing awareness of the need to have clear guidance across the value chain in both adapting to and mitigating climate change and creating science-based and transparent frameworks to accelerate the transition to sustainable logistics services. 

There is a constant pursuit for the appropriate “Climate Technologies” tailored to the Business

Broadly climate technologies can be classified into 10 families critical to meeting the net-zero challenge.

 Image reference: https://www.mckinsey.com/business-functions/operations/our-insights/making-supply-chain-decarbonization-happen

Climate Technologies for Cold-chain Logistics

Out of the above 10 families of climate technologies we have narrowed down on 2 families with case in example of technologies or products relevant to the cold-chain sector. 

This list would provide as a quick guide on the opportunities of interventions for stakeholders in the cold-chain industry such as manufacturers of chilled and frozen food products, e-retailers, HoReCa and logistics provider helping them reduce carbon footprint in their value chain.

1.Batteries and energy storage 

Renewable energy for cooling application:

We have known solar as the most commonly and largely adopted renewable source of energy. The challenge of using renewables to its full potential is its intermittent nature of availability. Incase of value chain at the first mile where the challenge is accessibility to constant supply of power; solar or wind power can be harnessed to provide energy. Since the final energy requirement in this case is in the form of cooling, thermal energy storage strategy should be applied to integrate with renewable power instead of electric batteries. For instance, a solar based coldroom of size 10ft x 10ft would require a lead acid battery which has a service life of 3 years. In addition, there is a substantial loss in multiple conversions of the energy. There are atleast three conversions – electrical energy to chemical energy, chemical energy to electrical energy and electrical energy to cooling energy.

To enable a 100% off-grid solar micro-coldroom, a 4kwP solar PV panel coupled with refrigeration unit which provides energy for the day time cooling as well as thermal energy storage for night time which totals upto 14kWh(*Thermal units). Now if this unit was to draw power from electrical battery storage the required installed capacity would be 17 kwh(Electrical units).

 

  Thermal Energy Storage Battery storage
Cost of storage, per kwh INR 8,000 INR 5,000
End of Life, yrs 15 years 3 years
Conversion efficiency 95% 80%

*1.2kwh of electrical energy is needed to produce 1kwh of thermal energy

The above table offers key parameter comparison that points towards a high carbon footprint for an electrical battery(lead acid type) considering the replacement every 3 years and conversion efficiency alone. The end of life disposal and its environment hazard is even great for electric batteries while in case of thermal energy storage for cold applications , the core  materials used are non-toxic/ environmentally safe salt hydrates with water as a major constituent.

Image reference: Pluss Advanced Technologies: Off-grid Micro-Coldroom using thermal energy storage.

Back-up and thermal efficiency for cooling application

The most common backup system used to tackle power outages is diesel generators which at the current rate costs Rs. 38 per unit of electricity. In terms of the carbon emissions, a litre of diesel contributes to 2.62 Kgs of carbon emissions. Cleaner and more efficient storage technologies such as Li-ion batteries and thermal energy storage strategies could be applied to operate large coldwarehouses. Li-ion batteries have a very high electrical energy density, however the high capital costs could prove to be a limitation for these to be implemented for applications where energy in the final consumption stage is in the form of electricity. 

Again for refrigeration/HVAC systems,  thermal energy storage systems as a medium to store and enable demand flexibility proves to be a cleaner and  carbon-neutral solution with a decent pay back of less than 2 years on CAPEX. 

The incorporation of Phase Change Materials(PCM) as a thermal energy storage strategy improves the thermal performance of the refrigeration unit as well enabling reduction in the run time of the compressor 

Image reference: Pluss Advanced Technologies –  Commercial chest freezers with thermal Energy Storage(TES) 

Electrification of reefer trucks

The cost of a reefer truck is on an average about 60% higher than a normal truck varying slightly depending on different capacities. Reefer trucks form a crucial part of cold chain for both short and long duration transport.

Hybrid Reefer trucks enable a way to eliminate the use of diesel to run the cooling unit. For first mile intra-city distribution, these trucks provide upto 16 hours of temperature-controlled delivery with only 8 hours of electric charging which would offset about 30-35 Litrs of diesel.* It is important to underline that the refrigeration unit is used to maintain the temperature range of product load and not cool it down. 

This is a case in example of using a combination of electrical battery storage and thermal energy storage. 50% of the fuel used in reefer vehicle is consumed towards operating the cooling unit, therefore thermal energy storage makes more sense than deploying electric batteries.

Image reference: Pluss Advanced Technologies –  Partially electric Refrigerated truck with thermal Energy Storage(TES) 

2.Circular economy

A circular economy is an economic system aimed at eliminating waste and the continual use of resources. Circular systems enable re-use, sharing, repair, refurbishment, re-manufacturing, and recycling. This closed-loop systems minimizes resource inputs and reduce waste, pollution, and carbon emissions. In cold-chain logistics, for small volume distribution and for long distances small capacity shipper boxes are used which are often heavily packaged with thermal insulation packaging, Phase Change Materials(PCMs) or ice packs constitute to 50% of the weight and volume than the product itself. In most cases the common reason for resistance towards designing one’s business around circular economy is the cost of reverse logistics not being viable. However, strategically we are bound to lose in the long term as the cost of these single use systems are bound to inflate due to indirect costs such as  waste generation, emissions, depleting resources and rising energy costs are indirect effect of single use economy.

 Image source: https://www.triumvirate.com/blog/do-you-know-about-the-circular-economy

Digital transformation integrated with resilient and reusable materials

Use of more durable materials and reusable materials, IOT integration to track and monitor and business model innovations such as  “pay per use” could be a win-win situation for both producers and customers to make this mechanism work.

Technologies such as Phase Change Materials(PCMs) in cold-chain logistics are designed for a life of over 3,000 cycles. 

It is an abundant stress on landfill and reproduction of such components even if the capital cost of the product is inexpensive for customers. 

A case in example of the economic and environmental benefit is for long duration logistics for pharmaceuticals. Typically a shipper box carrying pharmaceuticals uses EPS(Expanded polystyrene)  commonly known as thermocol  is slow to degrade and if proper considerations towards disposal is not given, it can leach chemicals that contaminate water sources. 

Further the manufacturing of EPS releases significant amount of HFC(HydroFluorocarbons) which are also know as “Super greenhouse gases”. HFC’s has far greater impact towards global warming than CO2, as illustrated in the image below.

Using reusable alternatives can enable one to do more with less. Essentially by reusing a company can typically use 50% of the packaging material to ship the same amount of products. The capital cost of such reusable shippers would be 5X and yet the total cost reduction impacted by lower freight cost, better payload to total volume ratio would 25%. This reduction in cost is taking into consideration the added cost of reverse logistics to get the empty shipper box back. The below table offers a glimpse of the comparative anlaysis between “one time use” shipper vs “multiple” use shipper strategy.

   

Total Number of vaccines moved  (units per month) 75,000
  Current Situation With EPS Box Proposed Rental Program (with sustainable packaging materials) Solution
Vaccines per box, units 50 100
Times the box can be reused in a month, no. 0 4
Boxes required per month, nos. 1,500 187.5
Cost per box 860  
Rental per month per box   6000
Total Box Cost 12,90,000 11,25,000
Weight per box (kg) 30 13
Forward freight (@ Rs. 15 per kg) 6,75,000 1,46,250
Reverse Freight   1,46,250
Total Freight 6,75,000 2,92,500
Total Cost 19,65,000 14,17,500

Cost benefit template: Domestic inter-city shipment spanning from 48 to 72 hours

Moving away from Analysis Paralysis and Cost-Centricity approach

Companies in Cold-chain logistic services or ones in the business of temperature sensitive products have a very huge opportunity to make a difference to fight against climate change. In comparison to rest of the world, the Indian cold-chain industry is still in its growing phase which in itself offers India an opportunity to setup the infrastructure with newer, efficient and far more environmental resilient systems. Therefore, there is a need to implement climate technologies in small scale pilots with careful baseline data preparation to measure and evaluate the benefits.  At the rate of acceleration in the global climate change, we do not have the luxury to analyse on theory or wait to follow the western world. On the ground deployment of innovations must be a priority with the intention to fail fast and move on to different solutions and iterate.  

Sustainability and decarbonisation have to become everybody’s business and entrenched in the organizations culture. Strategic plan with the goals towards operating cost reduction, fossil fuel elimination and elimination of GHG emission to be set for the organisation by a dedicated internal team responsible for sustainable initiatives. It is imperative to give ourselves a wake-up call that being sustainable is not a cost centre but a non-negotiable element of the growth strategy for the organization. 

Author: Vishnu Sasidharan, VP Climate Technologies

References:

  1. https://www.un.org/en/climatechange/paris-agreement
  2. https://ir.kraftheinzcompany.com/news-releases/news-release-details/kraft-heinz-cements-climate-ambition-commits-carbon-neutrality
  3. https://www.mckinsey.com/business-functions/operations/our-insights/making-supply-chain-decarbonization-happen
  4. https://unfccc.int/topics/climate-technology/the-big-picture/what-is-technology-development-and-transfer 
  5. https://epe.global/2019/10/18/measuring-pollution-from-the-eps-manufacturing-process/

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Innovative Thermal Management Techniques for Electric Vehicles: Phase Change Materials Technology for Optimal Battery Efficiency https://www.pluss.co.in/innovative-thermal-management-ev-pcm-technology/ https://www.pluss.co.in/innovative-thermal-management-ev-pcm-technology/#respond Wed, 16 Apr 2025 07:37:49 +0000 https://www.pluss.co.in/?p=1537 The post Innovative Thermal Management Techniques for Electric Vehicles: Phase Change Materials Technology for Optimal Battery Efficiency appeared first on Pluss Advanced Technologies.

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Introduction

Safety and durability are paramount when you choose your ideal vehicle. Considering fuel-fuel free and zero emissions transportation  as a primary factor, have you ever wondered how Electric Vehicles outperform the Internal combustion Engine (ICE) incumbent maintaining Electric Vehicles(EV) efficiency and reliability?

Choosing an electric vehicle (EV) often comes with a myriad of questions. Imagine a technology that keeps your EV battery balanced in dynamic weather conditions, ensuring peak performance through innovative Thermal Management Techniques. Indeed, we will choose that vehicle with packed advantages and features like durability, range, IOT, and so many others.

This blog deeply explores the passive thermal management ability of Phase Change Technology (PCM) and its groundbreaking innovation by Pluss® Li-ion thermal management techniques for electric vehicles.

The Challenge of Temperature Control in Electric Vehicle Batteries

Does the climate bother your Electric Vehicle because it struggles to offer the claimed range and longer than expected charging time? EV batteries are like athletes—they perform best in their “goldilocks zone,” not too hot, not too cold. Essentially for li-ion cell temperatures below -5 deg C and above +45 deg C are detrimental to the life cycle and performance. Therefore, extreme weather can tip the scales, leading to faster degradation, reduced range, or even safety concerns.

A crucial solution for overcoming all the above problems is Thermal Management Techniques, which help to balance:

  • Temperature fluctuations
  • Unequal impedance distribution
  • Dynamic heat transfer efficiency
  • Prolongation of thermal runaway event

Pluss® offers a passive cooling solution using Phase Change Materials (PCM) Technology, ensuring safety, durability, and longevity for EVs. This integrated technology is the real game changer in the realm of Electric Vehicles.

Phase Change Materials (PCM) Technology: A Revolutionary Approach

Thermal management is one of the critical factors in safeguarding optimal temperature regulation and system efficiency. It includes:

Passive Cooling using PCM is considered the best option for maintaining effective Thermal Management Techniques since it does not demand energy to generate cooling, which inturn leaves the manufacturers to utilize battery capacity to improve range. Secondly, active cooling is not a feasible option in 2 & 3 wheelers as it would add significant burden on the weight and cost of the 2 wheelers. PCMs absorb and release heat as it transits between a solid and liquid state to maintain a stable temperature.


There are many advantages added to the PCM’s cap, which makes it unique to:

  • Maintain a uniform temperature across the battery module
  • Mitigate propagation of heat from cell-to-cell in the event of a fire.
  • Improve the usable capacity of the li-ion cell by 25%
  • 50% increase in life of the battery pack

Integrating PCMs into Electric Vehicle Battery Packs

There are many variants of PCM and selection of the most optimum PCM depends on three major factors – Long term compatibility with interfacing components, Thermal characteristics, ease of serviceability. 

These tests validate the material’s ability to maintain battery performance under extreme conditions, offering insights into its durability and safety features. The destructive test validates the material’s ability to prolong or mitigate thermal runaway event (Uncontrolled kinetic chain reaction between cells, which is caused due to heat). 

The tests and feedback demonstrates the following:

  • The battery capacity has been increased to 22%-24%.
  • With the integration of PCM, the thermal regulation time increased from 27 minutes to 50 minutes at peak current.
  • A thermal runaway event can be prolonged by 4X. 
  • Extremely easy to remove incase of a demand for servicing.

Fig: Illustrating the effect of thermal runaway

Benefits of PCM Technology for Electric Vehicle Batteries

PCM integration in EV batteries holds numerous benefits, including innovative solutions that will lead to revolutionary changes with cutting-edge Thermal Management Techniques in the world of Electric Vehicles.

Below are some of the innovative benefits of PCM integration in Electric Vehicles:

  • 20% of the battery energy saved per cycle
  • Battery longevity – 5 to 7 years
  • Eco-friendly Environment
  • Cost-efficient and low operation costs

The Future of PCM Technology in EV Thermal Management

The PCM technology in Electric Vehicle Thermal Management is quite challenging; much like a balanced diet for the human body, the battery requires thermal stability to optimally feed the energy and extraction of this energy. While PCM today is gaining fast traction in the systems without active cooling, at Pluss’ we are working towards optimizing efficiency of active cooling systems. This would mean more power with the same battery capacity or opportunity to reduce the battery capacity, making a case for PCMs to boost performance.

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Common Problems with Reefer Trucks and How Phase Change Materials Technology Helps https://www.pluss.co.in/common-problems-with-reefer-trucks-and-how-phase-change-materials-technology-helps/ https://www.pluss.co.in/common-problems-with-reefer-trucks-and-how-phase-change-materials-technology-helps/#respond Thu, 13 Feb 2025 08:53:50 +0000 https://www.pluss.co.in/?p=1285 Introduction In the face of rapid technological advancements, the business sector in 2024 grapples with a unique set of challenges. India, the 2nd largest producer of fruits and vegetables after China, heavily relies on Cold chain logistics, where you encounter difficulties and challenges in delivering perishable products like agriculture, crops, vegetables, and dairy products. These […]

The post Common Problems with Reefer Trucks and How Phase Change Materials Technology Helps appeared first on Pluss Advanced Technologies.

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Introduction

In the face of rapid technological advancements, the business sector in 2024 grapples with a unique set of challenges. India, the 2nd largest producer of fruits and vegetables after China, heavily relies on Cold chain logistics, where you encounter difficulties and challenges in delivering perishable products like agriculture, crops, vegetables, and dairy products. These products are susceptible to temperature fluctuation, where 90% of them need thermal stability throughout their delivery process.

This cold chain packaging plays a vital role in the transportation of these products without losing their originality.  Reefer trucks are widely used in cold chain transportation; however, they are 60% more costlier than standard trucks, with excess fuel consumption and high operational costs.

The Government and private sectors are on the lookout for technologies that could offer an economically feasible solution. Pluss®, a pioneer of passive temperature control solutions, introduces Phase Change Materials (PCM) based thermal battery coined as ThermoTab™active, an innovative and comprehensive retrofittable solution with numerous benefits like temperature maintenance, sustainability, and low energy consumption. This technology navigates business operations, reducing downtime and enhancing economic efficiency.  This blog explores ways to overcome issues in cold chain logistics with Pluss®’s advanced PCM technologies.

The Cold Chain: A Critical Link 

Cold chain logistics serves as a cornerstone in transporting these sensitive products to consumers. This logistics needs to maintain a consistent temperature of 2 to 8°C to keep the fresh products non-perishable.

Temperature fluctuation leads to 70 to 80% of product spoilage. In addition, the lack of infrastructure also increases the risk of fresh products’ shelf life.

Though the reefer truck plays a predominant role in cold chain logistics, the refrigerated transports foster three broad temperature ranges: CRT’ (18 to 25°C), ‘frozen’ (-20 to -25°C), and ‘Chilled’ (2 to 8°C), and high-level consumption of fuel, which impacts the operation cost. Regardless of the scale of the business, the sector opts for technologies that offer cost-efficiency. Beyond this economic factor, the business sector prefers organic, healthy products that align with consumer demand for sustainability.

Ultimately, with all these factors in mind, Pluss® introduces the next-level technological advancement strategy for all these complications. Leveraging PCM with ThermoTab™active plates that can be actively used in both cold storage and transport applications.

Limitations of Conventional Reefer Trucks 

The study states that there is a broader gap in logistics, as the number of trucks is insufficient to meet the demands of delivering products to different business domains. The statistics highlight this gap, i.e., in India, there are around 10,000 refrigerated vans used to provide the capacity of approximately 17 million tonnes of produce. Several factors predominately limit the use of conventional reefer trucks. Fuel Consumption and Emissions: Reefer trucks consume a significant portion of fuel, which leads to high operational costs and carbon emissions.  Temperature Control Challenges: Temperature fluctuations are common in conventional trucks, which leads to product spoilage and budget expansion.  Refurbishment Charges:  The refrigeration unit should need regular maintenance. Otherwise, it will result in a breakdown, leading to costly repairs and potential delays in transportation. Environmental Concerns: Conventional reefer trucks emit high amounts of carbon, which leads to air pollution.  Pluss® analyzes these limitations and provides solutions that coincide with health and environmental factors.

Fig1: Courtesy Images from Rinac India Ltd – Solar based truck to enable innovative retail concept installed with thermal battery

ThermoTab™active Plates: A Game-Changer for Reefer Trucks

ThermoTab™active is a thermal battery that uses Phase Change Materials Reefer Trucks to retain cold energy. This advanced technology is the flagship of cold chain logistics, where it maintains a substantial environment and cost-effective approach that brings down operational costs. The active plates encapsulates Phase Change Materials (PCM), and an evaporator coil that runs inside the PCM helps to maintain efficient freezing during the delivery process.  The freezing starts from the surface of the coil, forming layers until the entire volume of PCM around the coil is frozen. The PCM, which is closer to the plate’s surface, melts first, henceforth providing cooling inside the insulated space of the truck or cold storage.

  Fig2. Phase Change Materials (PCM) filled thermal battery

This kind of top-tier technology enhances numerous advantages over conventional reefer trucks, and we deliver quality products, reducing their spoilage to 50%. It helps to retain their shelf life when it reaches their destination. Some key features make our ThermoTab™active plates a unique and potential technology in the logistics market. 

  • Low maintenance Cost 
  • No noise during operations 
  • Cost-Efficiency 
  • Rechargeable  
  • Temperature Consistency  
  • 24/7 cooling and preservation

Advantages of ThermoTab™active Plates There are many advantages to ensuring that fresh products are non-perishable. We guarantee quality preservation and reduced waste, ultimately providing services for small- to large-scale businesses, which is a profitable and sustainable solution.

These ThermoTab™active  are integrated in various types of applications, such as trucks and cold rooms, to sustain the freshness and quality of frozen and chilled products.

 

  Fig 3.Installation of thermal battery in micro-solar coldroom

Cost Savings and ROI  The solution is highly cost-effective and has an ROI of under 2 years. The thermal stability of these active plates minimizes energy consumption and reduces frequent refrigeration maintenance, leading to reduced operational costs.

We ensure that fresh products maintain their shelf life, reducing downtime. The solar-powered and rechargeable option extends the operational efficiency. Additionally, the multi-storage compartments allow for the simultaneous storage of different product types, reducing delivery costs and maximizing delivery efficiency.

The Future of ThermoTab™

In the current context, the disadvantages of conventional reef trucks, such as high-level fuel consumption, maintenance cost, and carbon emission, can be mitigated with low maintenance cost, rechargeability, and being environment friendly. Our team of experts is undergoing consistent research to analyze the next step of PCM technology for advancing sustainability and efficiency in cold chain logistics.

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Innovative temperature controlled supply chain solution: How PronGO® enables Meat & Seafood integrity https://www.pluss.co.in/innovative-temperature-controlled-supply-chain/ https://www.pluss.co.in/innovative-temperature-controlled-supply-chain/#respond Wed, 29 Jan 2025 08:45:52 +0000 https://www.pluss.co.in/?p=1239 Introduction “Studies have shown that for every 1°C increase in temperature above optimal storage conditions, the rate of bacterial growth in seafood can double, significantly reducing shelf life and increasing the risk of spoilage in perishable goods.”  This highlights the critical need for careful handling to maintain quality and safety during seafood transportation. Techniques like […]

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Introduction

“Studies have shown that for every 1°C increase in temperature above optimal storage conditions, the rate of bacterial growth in seafood can double, significantly reducing shelf life and increasing the risk of spoilage in perishable goods.” 

This highlights the critical need for careful handling to maintain quality and safety during seafood transportation. Techniques like High-Pressure Processing (HPP), Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP), and biopreservation help extend the shelf life of seafood, but maintaining temperature control during last-mile delivery remains a significant challenge within cold chain logistics. 

This blog explores how PronGo®, with its innovative multi-temperature control shippers, addresses these challenges, offering a breakthrough solution for last-mile delivery of perishable goods.

The Complexities of Last-Mile Temperature Control

The last mile of delivery, the final leg of the journey from a distribution center to the customer’s doorstep, presents unique challenges for maintaining temperature control, especially for highly perishable goods like meat and seafood. These complexities impact cold chain logistics and include:

  • Frequent stops and door openings
  • Shorter delivery routes and traffic congestion
  • Variety of delivery vehicles
  • Packaging and handling
  • Unpredictable delivery conditions
  • Lack of real-time monitoring
  • Cost considerations
  • Human error

PronGo® – Multi-Temperature Control Shipper With Last-Mile Delivery

Temperature fluctuations compromise an estimated 20% of perishable goods during the last mile. This temperature variance can have serious consequences, impacting food quality and potentially endangering consumer health. 

Traditional methods like ice packs and refrigerated trucks have their limitations. Ice packs struggle to maintain a consistent temperature and cannot be used for the frozen category(-15 deg C to -25 deg C)  ,whereas refrigerated trucks are costly for part load shipment and it contributes to carbon emissions, highlighting the need for efficient and sustainable cold chain logistics. 

PronGo® are a range of passive transportation systems such as temperature-controlled bags, boxes, pallets combined with superior insulation and Phase Change Materials (PCM) based coolants designed to maintain the quality of seafood by increasing shelf life during last-mile seafood transportation. PronGo®’s multi-temperature control shippers act as a cornerstone in overcoming these temperature logistics challenges, creating separate compartments for various types of food at varying temperatures, ensuring effective temperature control. 

Benefits Of PronGo® – Multi-temperature control shippers

PronGo®’s multi-temperature control shippers are a cutting-edge transportation method that withstands the complex processes of perishable goods. These shippers are categorized as multi-compartment, where multiple products can be compartmentalised at different temperatures within the same system, ensuring efficiency, optimal safety and quality throughout the delivery process. Designed specifically for both meat and seafood, PronGo® offers solutions for local deliveries and large bulk shipments, providing flexibility for businesses of all sizes involved in seafood transportation and other cold chain logistics.

With Prongo, you have 3 different temperature ranges to choose from:

  • Frozen: -15 to -25 degree C
  • Chilled: 2 to 8 degree C
  • CRT: 15 to 25 degree C

Along with the multi-temperature control shipper, the retention time of these temperatures is controlled by Advanced Phase Change Materials (PCMs), which are crucial in maintaining temperature control for delivery duration from 10 minutes to 72 hours catering to first, mid and last-mile delivery.

Advanced Phase Change Materials (PCMs)

Phase Change Materials (PCMs) absorb or release heat at a designed temperature. They offer several advantages over traditional coolants and pave the way for reusability and sustainability, reducing waste and operational costs. This eco-friendly solution reduces the need for single-use packaging and refrigerants, minimizing the environmental footprint of the entire cold chain logistics process.

PronGo® Recharge Station

The PronGo® Recharge Station plays a pivotal role as a critical element in the ecosystem.  PronGo® Recharge Station ensures certainty of completely charging PCMs which essentially is high capacity freezer capable of charging PCMs needing as low freezing points as – 30 deg C .

By supporting businesses in delivering superior quality meat and seafood while also being environmentally responsible, PronGo® offers benefits that resonate with companies and end users concerned with effective cold chain logistics.

Significance of PronGo® For Businesses:

  • PronGo® revolutionizes the logistics and sustainability landscape for food & beverages and pharmaceutical businesses by enabling part load shipments.
  • Maintaining consistent temperature control, product quality, and reducing spoilage enhances customer satisfaction.
  • Cuts down operational cost by enabling shift from diesel or fossil fuel based systems to electricity which positively impacts carbon emissions.

Significance of PronGo® For Consumers:

  • PronGo® guarantees freshness and safety to consumers receiving perishable goods.
  • A logistic service using PronGo®, offers an opportunity to consumers to be aware and make a choice towards choosing a service provider who is more sustainable.

PronGo® has already proven its trust across various industries, in the food and beverage domain. By breaking through the challenges in the seafood transportation industry, with solutions that ensure temperature and quality, the brand has become a flagship with multi-temperature control shippers, PCMs, recharge stations, and also environmentally protective.

It is important for a Seafood and Meat business like yours to have the most safest, reliable, and prompt last mile delivery. Discover how you can clear out the logistical barriers in Seafood and meat deliveries with PronGo®, a leader in cold chain logistics. Reach out to us for a free quote, you can also download PronGo Brochure here.

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