A Comprehensive Review of Microencapsulated Phase Change Materials Synthesis for Low-Temperature Energy Storage Applications

Abstract

Thermal energy storage (TES) using phase change materials (PCMs) is an innovative approach to meet the growth of energy demand. Microencapsulation techniques lead to overcoming some drawbacks of PCMs and enhancing their performances. This paper presents a comprehensive review of studies dealing with PCMs properties and their encapsulation techniques. Thus, it is essential to critically examine the existing techniques and their compatibility with different types of PCMs, coating materials, and the area of application. The main objective of this review is to describe each microencapsulation process and to determine different factors that influence the performance of resulting microcapsules. Microencapsulation efficiency, as well as the limitation of each technique, are investigated, and optimum operating conditions of each process are highlighted. Furthermore, up-to-date studies of multifunctional PCMs microcapsules development with enhanced performances and new application directions are also presented. This review aims to be a useful guide for future researches dealing with low thermal energy storage applications of PCMs microcapsules.

Preparation and characterization of a form-stable phase change hydrogel for heat-protective clothing

“…[5][6][7] As a result, PCMs have aroused the curiosity of researchers in recent decades. [8][9][10][11][12] However, prior research has concentrated heavily on organic phase change materials like paraffin, and little attention has been paid to inorganic PCMs. 13,14 According to their physical and chemical properties, PCMs can be classified as either organic or inorganic.…”

“…5–7 As a result, PCMs have aroused the curiosity of researchers in recent decades. 8–12 However, prior research has concentrated heavily on organic phase change materials like paraffin, and little attention has been paid to inorganic PCMs. 13,14…”

An Enhancement of Compositional Stability of Phase Change Materials by Lamination with Aluminum Sheet

“…Alternatively, wax can be fixed in a stable form by encapsulation within a polymeric shell, emulsion polymerization, or mixing with certain polymers [13][14][15][16][17][18][19][20][21]. For example, wax within a thin polymeric (or silica) shell completely suppresses leakage.…”

Shape-Stable Hybrid Emulsion Gel with Sodium Acetate Trihydrate and Paraffin Wax for Efficient Solar Energy Storage and Building Thermal Management

“…The microencapsulation technique involves enveloping hydrated salts in wax to prevent moisture loss and enhance stability and cycling performance. − Pickering emulsion is a method of preparing microcapsules that employs solid nanoparticles as surface-active agents to stabilize two immiscible phases, resulting in a dispersed system with good stability and controllability. − It can effectively combine the properties of organic and inorganic components, making it crucial for the thermal performance of composite PCMs. Wang et al achieved a shape-stable composite material (HPC@EG) by emulsifying hydrated salts and PW to form an oil-in-water Pickering emulsion, mixing it with expanded graphite, and then mechanically compressing it.…”