Search
24 articles for “polymer phase change material”
-
Polymer Phase Change Materials: Innovations, Applications, and Future Directions
Abstract: Polymer-based phase change materials represent a significant advancement in energy storage and thermal management technologies due to their ability to absorb, store, and release heat during phase transitions. This article reviews recent innovations in polymer phase change materials, focusing on the synthesis, characterization, and performance enhancement techniques. The development of polymer composites with enhanced thermal conductivity, improved phase change enthalpy, and extended thermal cycling stability is discussed. Additionally, the integration …
Published in Journal of Refrigeration, Air conditioning, Heating and ventilation · Vol. 11, Issue 2, 2024 · pp. 1–7 Read article
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
Experimental Investigation on Thermal Conductivity and Viscosity of Phase Change Material (NaNOᴣ and KNOᴣ) with Different Concentrations of ZnO Polymer Nanofluids for Solar Energy Absorption
Abstract: When evaluating the effectiveness of solar heat absorption methods or solar thermal energy storage systems (TESS), heat transfer fluid is a crucial element. Thermal conductivity and usable heat obtained for any industrial or immediate power plant efficiency are improved by the distinctive refining of Heat Transfer Fluid (HFT). The phase change material used in this study, known as solar salt is a blend of 60% NaNO3 and 40% KNO3. It …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites · Vol. 12, Issue 5, 2024 · pp. 25–35 Read article
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
Polymer-Based Materials in Green and Sustainable Construction
Abstract: The escalating impacts of global warming, driven by greenhouse gas emissions, demand urgent action in the construction sector, which contributes over 40% of global CO₂ emissions. Smart buildings, designed to optimize energy use, water efficiency, and occupant comfort through automation and advanced materials, represent a transformative response to these challenges. The convergence of sustainability and urban development has spotlighted the need for green materials in smart building design. With buildings …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites · Vol. 13, Issue 5, 2025 · pp. 42–48 Read article
-
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
-
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
-
Advancements in Thermal Performance of Solar Flat Plate Collectors: A Comprehensive Review
Abstract: Over the past couple of years, solar flat plate collectors (FPSCs) have undergone significant improvement regarding their thermal performance. The review evaluates the improvement of materials such as advanced coatings; metals with a high thermal conductivity; and nanostructured additives. New cover technologies, such as polymeric films and anti-reflection coatings, are discussed, as well as novel insulation technologies such as aerogels and vacuum panels. Also of interest are phase-change materials and …
Published in Journal of Thermal Engineering and Applications · Vol. 12, Issue 2, 2025 · pp. 10–14 Read article
-
Characterization and Performance of a Multiphase Lignocellulosic-Polymeric Composite Growth Media in an IoT-Automated NFT Hydroponic System
Abstract: Hydroponics utilizing the Nutrient Film Technique (NFT) entails a type of soilless agriculture involving the delivery of a continuously flowing and thin film of nutrient-filled solution onto the roots of plants. With the move toward sustainable and efficient urban agriculture in the contemporary world and need to produce more effective and resource-efficient solutions, there have been significant efforts aimed at improving these techniques through advanced materials and automation. A consistent …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites · Vol. 14, Issue 2, 2026 · pp. 542–555 Read article
-
Development of Bio-Based Smart Textiles with Temperature Adaptive and Self-Cleaning Properties
Abstract: This research explores the development of bio-based smart textiles that integrate both temperature-adaptive and self-cleaning properties, responding to the growing need for sustainable and functional innovations in the textile industry. Unlike conventional fabrics, smart textiles provide multifunctional responses to environmental stimuli such as heat, light, and moisture. The focus of this work is on combining renewable natural fibers, biodegradable polymers, and environmentally friendly additives to design textiles that are not …
Published in Journal of Modern Chemistry & Chemical Technology · Vol. 16, Issue 3, 2025 · pp. 1–7 Read article
-
An Overview of Surface Coating Methodologies and Their Use in Technical Materials
Abstract: To safeguard the product or structure against chemical harm, a variety of procedures and materials can be applied in coating applications today. Nowadays, coatings are used extensively in manufacturing all over the world to increase efficiency and reduce expenses two factors that are essential to preserving the sector's profitability. Coated materials have greater strength compared to uncoated materials. A variety of materials, including bio glass, polymers, ceramics, strong and hard …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites · Vol. 12, Issue 6, 2024 · pp. 19–35 Read article