Micro- and nano-encapsulated metal and alloy-based phase-change materials for thermal energy storage

An overview of recent literature on the micro- and nano-encapsulation of metallic phase-change materials (PCMs) is presented in this review to facilitate an understanding of the basic knowledge, selection criteria, and classification of commonly used PCMs for thermal energy storage (TES). Metals and alloys with high thermal conductivity can be used as PCMs for rapid heat storage in compact systems owing to their high volumetric TES density. The emerging application of metal PCMs in different fields such as solar thermal energy management, smart wearable devices with thermal comfort control, and cooling of electronic devices call for the need of micro- and nano-TES particles, which can be synthesised in different forms to satisfy specific requirements. As metals are easily oxidised, especially at the micro- and nano-level, encapsulation of metal-based PCM particles is important for sustainable use at high operating temperature in ambient conditions. Recent studies focusing on the encapsulation of metallic PCMs at the micro- and nano-level have been reviewed and classified in terms of the melting point of metal/alloy PCMs used and types of encapsulation materials, such as oxides, polymers, carbon, and metals. The current review is expected to provide an outlook on novel metal and alloy PCMs with function-directed structures and superior TES properties for a broad range of applications.