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21 articles for “PCM composites”
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Thermally Regulated Polymer-PCM Composites for Efficient Solar Energy Harvesting and Storage
Abstract: This study investigates the development of high-performance; shape-stabilized polymer composites infused with phase change materials (PCMs) for thermal energy storage in solar energy applications. Polyethylene glycol (PEG-6000) was employed as the core PCM due to its high latent heat and suitable melting point, while high-density polyethylene (HDPE) served as the supporting polymer matrix to provide structural stability. One of the primary limitations of PEG-based PCMs is their inherently low thermal …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites · Vol. 13, Issue 4, 2025 · pp. 153–163 Read article
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IoT-Enabled Polymer–Gel PCM Composites for Intelligent Thermal Management in Solar Facade Applications
Abstract: The present study investigates the development of a multifunctional polymer–gel phase change composite designed for solar façade applications with integrated real-time thermal monitoring capability. A crosslinked polyvinyl alcohol–borax matrix was employed as a three-dimensional polymer scaffold to encapsulate paraffin-based phase change material, ensuring leakage-free operation and structural integrity under repeated thermal cycling. Graphite nanoplatelets were incorporated as thermally conductive nano-fillers to enhance heat transfer through the polymer composite via percolation-driven …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites · Vol. 14, Issue 3, 2026 · pp. 99–111 Read article
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Nano-Silica Reinforced Crosslinked Biopolymer–PCM Composites for Improved Thermal Cycling Durability
Abstract: Crosslinked biopolymer–PCM composites reinforced with nano-silica were developed to enhance thermal cycling durability, leakage resistance, and structural stability for advanced thermal energy storage applications. A starch-based biopolymer was chemically crosslinked using citric acid to create a stable polymer network, while paraffin was employed as the phase-change medium and nano-silica (1–4 wt%) served as a multifunctional inorganic reinforcement. FTIR analysis confirmed successful esterification between citric acid and the polymer backbone, indicated …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites · Vol. 14, Issue 1, 2026 · pp. 1–10 Read article
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Stretchable Elastomer–PCM Composites with Bluetooth-Enabled Temperature Monitoring for Wearable Healthcare IoT Devices
Abstract: The rapid advancement of wearable healthcare technologies has created a growing demand for multifunctional polymer composites capable of simultaneously providing mechanical flexibility, thermal energy management, electrical conductivity, sensing capability, and wireless communication. In this study, a stretchable elastomer-based polymer composite integrated with a phase-change material and a Bluetooth Low Energy temperature monitoring system was developed for wearable healthcare Internet-of-Things applications. The polymer composite was fabricated using an Ecoflex silicone elastomer …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites · Vol. 14, Issue 4, 2026 · pp. 241–257 Read article
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Smart Biopolymer–PCM Composite Modules with Embedded Wireless Thermal Sensing for Autonomous Energy Storage Applications
Abstract: The development of multifunctional polymer composite systems for intelligent thermal energy storage has gained significant attention due to the increasing demand for sustainable and autonomous thermal management technologies. In the present study, a wireless-integrated biopolymer–phase change material (PCM) composite module embedded with thermal feedback sensors was successfully fabricated and experimentally investigated for advanced thermal energy storage applications. Polylactic acid (PLA) was employed as the biodegradable polymer matrix, while paraffin wax …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites · Vol. 14, Issue 4, 2026 · pp. 193–205 Read article
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Enhancing Thermal and Mechanical Performance of Polymer-Based Phase Change Materials with Graphite Nanoplatelets: A High-Efficiency Approach for Energy Storage Applications
Abstract: This study explores the performance enhancement and characterization of polymer-based phase change material (PCM) composites reinforced with graphite nanoplatelets (GNPs) for thermal management applications. The integration of GNPs significantly improved thermal conductivity, which increased from 0.38 W/m·K in pure PCM to 2.60 W/m·K with 10 wt% GNPs, marking a 580% improvement. Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) analysis revealed a reduction in latent heat capacity from 180 J/g to 150 J/g—approximately 16.7%—attributed …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites · Vol. 13, Issue 3, 2025 · pp. 150–162 Read article
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Digitally Tunable Dual-Phase Polymer–PCM Composites for IoT-Based Adaptive Thermal Management in Smart Buildings
Abstract: This study presents the design and development of digitally tunable dual-phase polymer–phase change material (PCM) composites for advanced thermal management in smart building applications. The composite is based on a hybrid polymer matrix comprising thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) and a crosslinked polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) gel, reinforced with paraffin microencapsulated PCM and hydrated salt PCM to achieve multi-stage thermal energy storage. The polymer composite architecture enables enhanced structural integrity, high encapsulation efficiency …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites · Vol. 14, Issue 3, 2026 · pp. 147–157 Read article
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Nano-enhanced Bio-based Phase Change Materials: A Brief Review
Abstract: The high latent temperatures and variable melting points of bio-based phase change materials make them ideal for thermal control. This covers heat regulation for medical and pharmaceutical items, building comfort, and high-end electronics and automobiles. In recent years, research and application of energy-saving materials and technologies in buildings has increased strength. Modern construction technology aims to keep old and new structures energy efficient. TES employing PCMs is an energy-efficient approach. …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites · Vol. 11, Issue 4, 2023 · pp. 15–27 Read article
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Bio-inspired Thermo-responsive and Self-Healing Polymer–PCM Hybrids for Next-Generation Smart Textile Applications
Abstract: The integration of phase change materials (PCMs) into flexible polymers represents a promising strategy for developing smart textiles with advanced thermal regulation and mechanical adaptability. However, the challenges of PCM leakage, poor mechanical strength, and durability under cyclic stress have limited their practical applications. In this study, we present a novel self-healing and elastic composite based on thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) incorporating 30 wt% microencapsulated PCM (mPCM) and dynamic disulfide bonds …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites · Vol. 13, Issue 4, 2025 · pp. 228–238 Read article
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Advancements In Energy Storage Materials Are Overcoming Challenges and Shaping Future Innovations
Abstract: The pursuit of efficient energy storage technologies is critical for advancing renewable energy systems and improving the performance of electric vehicles. This review emphasizes the synergistic contributions of polymers and composite materials in phase change materials (PCMs), zinc-based batteries (ZnBs), lithium-ion batteries (LIBs), and graphene-based systems. PCMs, particularly polymer-encapsulated and polymer-stabilized composites, demonstrate a remarkable ability to store and release thermal energy, enabling improved thermal management and operational stability. In …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites · Vol. 14, Issue 3, 2026 · pp. 704–723 Read article
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Thermal Conductivity and Energy Storage Performance of Paraffin Wax-Based Composites Reinforced with Amine Functionalized Graphene as a Nanofiller
Abstract: In this study, amine-functionalized graphene (AFG) was employed as a nanofiller/nanomaterial to enhance the thermal and structural properties of a paraffin wax (PW)-based polymeric composite, formulated as a phase change material (PCM). The PW/AFG composite was synthesized with varying nanofiller volume fractions (0.20%, 0.40%, 0.80%, and 1.60%), and its thermal conductivity, stability, and energy storage performance were systematically analyzed. The incorporation of AFG into the polymer matrix significantly improved the …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites · Vol. 13, Issue 5, 2025 · pp. 355–374 Read article
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Investigation of Exergy and Energy with Fibre Reinforced Plastic Composite (FRP) Tube Based Solar Still using PCM material via Theoretical and Computational Approach
Abstract: A FRP (Fibre Reinforced Polymer) material-based solar still is an advanced design approach in solar desalination systems, where the traditional construction materials (like metal or concrete) are replaced or enhanced with FRP composites. A FRP composite material tubular solar still is a lightweight desalination equipment with a substantial condensing area in comparison to other types of solar stills. Nonetheless, their effectiveness is often limited by fluctuating climatic circumstances. This study …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites · Vol. 14, Issue 1, 2026 · pp. 66–78 Read article
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Stretchable Elastomer–Phase Change Composites for Passive Thermal Management in Wearable Electronics
Abstract: Elastomer-embedded phase change material (EPCM) composites are developed as stretchable, leakage-free, and electrically insulating thermal regulation layers for wearable electronics operating under stringent skin-safety requirements. The EPCM architecture comprises microencapsulated organic phase change materials (μPCM, 30–70 wt%) uniformly dispersed within soft elastomer matrices based on PDMS or SEBS-type thermoplastic elastomers, together with low loadings (1–8 wt%) of electrically insulating hexagonal boron nitride (h-BN) fillers to enhance lateral heat transport. Differential …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites · Vol. 14, Issue 2, 2026 · pp. 30–41 Read article
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Comparative Analysis of 3D-Printed and Molded Shape-Stabilized Phase Change Composites
Abstract: Thermal energy storage (TES) has become essential for efficiently storing and utilizing thermal energy across applications like industrial heating, power plants, batteries, medical devices, food preservation, and aerospace technology. Because of their high energy density, affordability, and environmental friendliness, phase change materials, or PCMs, are employed extensively. However, challenges like poor thermal conductivity and leakage limit their performance. To address these issues, 3D printing has emerged as a powerful tool …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites · Vol. 13, Issue 3, 2025 · pp. 184–192 Read article
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Review of Thermal Performance of Solar Air Heaters: Influence of Composite Materials and Advanced Thermal Storage Techniques
Abstract: Solar air heaters (SAHs) are essential devices for capturing solar energy and converting it into heat, finding applications in steam generation, refrigeration, agricultural drying, and space and water heating in residential and commercial environments. However, the thermal performance of SAHs is often limited by the low heat transfer coefficient of air and the absence of solar energy during nighttime, impacting efficiency and reliability. To address these challenges, this study explores …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites · Vol. 13, Issue 5, 2025 · pp. 488–506 Read article
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High-Performance Polymer Composite Membranes for Selective Ion Transport in Advanced Energy Conversion Systems
Abstract: The development of high-performance Polymer Composite Membranes (PCM) with enhanced ion transport is essential for Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cells (PEMFC). However, low-humidity conditions and filter agglomeration still limit long-term membrane stability. This research designs a functionalized PCM integrating cross-linked Poly (Vinyl Alcohol)/Poly (Ethylene Glycol) (PVA/PEG) matrix with sulfonic acid functional groups and Titanium Dioxide (TiO₂) nanofillers to improve selective ion transport under low-humidity conditions. Two types of PCM were …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites · Vol. 14, Issue 3, 2026 · pp. 724–736 Read article
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Polymeric Hybrid Systems Engineered with Multiple-Stage Energy Absorption for Temperature Control
Abstract: Polymer–composite based phase change systems offer an effective strategy for adaptive thermal management; however, most existing systems exhibit single-stage latent heat transitions, limiting their applicability in environments with fluctuating thermal loads. In this study, a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) polymer matrix was reinforced with two microencapsulated paraffin-based phase change materials (PCM-A and PCM-B) to achieve multi-level latent heat storage behavior. The fabricated TPU/PCM-A10–B20 polymer–composite demonstrated two distinct endothermic transitions at approximately …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites · Vol. 14, Issue 1, 2026 · pp. 146–155 Read article
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Exploration of Copper Oxide PVA/PEG Paraffin Polymer Composites for Enhanced Thermal Performance of Nano-Enhanced Phase Change Materials and Their Environmental Impact
Abstract: This study investigates the synthesis, characterization, and application of copper oxide (CuO) nanoparticles integrated into polymer-based paraffin wax composites for advanced thermal management applications. CuO nanoparticles were synthesized using a wet chemical approach and characterized through X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and dynamic light scattering (DLS), confirming their crystalline structure, morphology, and nanoscale size distribution. The synthesized nanoparticles were incorporated into polymer-supported phase change …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites · Vol. 14, Issue 1, 2026 · pp. 156–173 Read article
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Development of a Polymer-Encapsulated IoT-Based Sensor for Thermal and Electrical Protection of EV Batteries
Abstract: Electric Vehicles (EVs) mark a critical shift toward sustainable transportation, with Battery Management Systems (BMS) playing a vital role in ensuring battery safety, reliability, and efficiency. The proposed BMS in this project incorporates real-time charge monitoring, temperature sensing, and fire detection capabilities to address safety concerns associated with lithium-ion batteries. Key features include current and voltage tracking, State of Charge (SoC) estimation, fault detection, and a user-friendly LCD interface. By …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites · Vol. 13, Issue 6, 2025 · pp. 582–591 Read article
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Polymer–Gel Composite Phase Change Materials: A Functional Polymer Composite Approach for Solar-Thermal Energy Storage in Building Facades
Abstract: This study investigates polymer–composite phase change materials (PCMs) in the form of polymer–gel hybrids as multifunctional systems for solar–thermal energy storage in building façades. Paraffin- and PEG-based PCMs were embedded into polyurethane and acrylic gel matrices to create shape-stabilized polymer–composites with high PCM loading (70–80 wt%). Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) confirmed distinct melting/freezing transitions at ~56°C (paraffin) and ~42°C (PEG), with enthalpy values of 120–150 J/g, closely matching theoretical predictions, …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites · Vol. 13, Issue 6, 2025 · pp. 36–51 Read article