Expanded graphite-modified eicosane/paraffin composites as form-stable phase change materials with a broad temperature range
摘要
Form-stable phase change materials (FSPCMs) with limited thermal management temperature ranges restrict their applications in terms of large temperature differences; therefore, the development of FSPCMs with wide phase change temperature ranges and high latent heat is vital for practical applications in thermal energy storage. Eicosane–paraffin/expanded graphite (EG) FSPCMs were prepared by vacuum adsorption method, and the samples were characterized by FT-IR, XRD, SEM, thermal conductivity test, DSC, TGA, and thermal cycling test. There was no chemical reaction during the synthesis of FSPCMs, and the obtained eicosane–paraffin PCM was successfully adsorbed in the EG structures. The FSPCM with 10% EG was the best ratio. The synthesized FSPCMs had good phase change qualities with a ΔHm of 155.6 J g−1 and a phase transition temperature range of 15.18–61.85 °C, which was much wider than that of eicosane (22.23–44.40 °C). The FSPCMs maintained good thermal stability up to 140 °C. Furthermore, the thermal cycling properties of FSPCMs remain steady. The introduction of EG can improve heat transfer. In conclusion, the synthesized FSPCMs with a wide phase change range exhibit promising potential for practical applications in the field of thermal energy storage.