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Microencapsulated phase change material via Pickering emulsion based on xylan nanocrystal for thermoregulating
Ziwen Lv1, Jun Rao1, Baozhong Lü1
1Beijing Key Laboratory of Lignocellulosic Chemistry, MOE Engineering Research Center of Forestry Biomass Materials and Bioenergy, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, China.
Carbohydrate Polymers
|January 5, 2023
Summary
Researchers developed novel microencapsulated phase change materials (PCM) using succinylated xylan nanocrystals (XNC) for improved thermal energy storage. These sustainable PCM beads offer enhanced stability and excellent thermoregulation, addressing capsule leakage issues.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Sustainable Chemistry
- Nanotechnology
Background:
- Phase change materials (PCM) are vital for thermal regulation and energy storage but often face challenges with capsule deformation and leakage.
- Developing stable and efficient microencapsulated PCM is crucial for widespread application.
Purpose of the Study:
- To create a novel microencapsulated PCM using sustainable xylan nanocrystals (XNC) as stabilizers.
- To enhance the stability and thermoregulating performance of PCM by addressing leakage issues.
- To explore the potential of hemicelluloses in food emulsion and thermal energy management.
Main Methods:
- Preparation of xylan nanocrystals (XNC) via oxalic acid hydrolysis of xylan.
- Succinylation of XNC to improve emulsifying properties.
- Fabrication of paraffin-based Pickering capsules stabilized by succinylated XNC within a sodium alginate matrix.
- Characterization of the microencapsulated PCM composite's thermal properties.
Main Results:
- Successfully synthesized XNC with dimensions of 25-60 nm.
- Succinylated XNC demonstrated superior emulsifying stability compared to unmodified XNC.
- Developed PCM beads with excellent thermoregulation and a latent heat of 105.59 J·g⁻¹.
- The microencapsulated PCM composite exhibited enhanced stability, preventing leakage.
Conclusions:
- Succinylated XNC is a promising stabilizer for creating robust microencapsulated PCM.
- This approach offers a sustainable pathway for utilizing hemicelluloses in thermal energy management and food applications.
- The developed PCM beads provide an effective solution for thermal regulation and energy storage with improved capsule integrity.
