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Published on: February 5, 2020
Palmitic acid/expanded graphite/CuS composite phase change materials toward efficient thermal storage and
Ying-Jie Huo1,2, Ting Yan1,2, Zhi-Hui Li1,2
1College of Energy and Mechanical Engineering, Shanghai University of Electric Power, Shanghai 200090, China. yt81725@126.com.
Researchers developed a novel composite phase change material (PA/EG/CuS) for efficient solar energy storage. This material demonstrates excellent thermal conductivity, high storage capacity, and superior photothermal conversion efficiency, paving the way for advanced solar energy applications.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Energy Storage
- Nanotechnology
Background:
- Composite phase change materials (PCMs) are crucial for thermal energy storage.
- Improving thermal conductivity and preventing leakage in PCMs remains a challenge.
- Photothermal conversion enhances solar energy utilization.
Purpose of the Study:
- To synthesize a novel composite phase change material (PA/EG/CuS) with enhanced thermal properties and photothermal conversion.
- To investigate the role of expanded graphite (EG) and nano-copper sulfide (nano-CuS) in the composite material.
- To evaluate the material's potential for solar energy storage and utilization.
Main Methods:
- Preparation of expanded graphite (EG) with nano-CuS (EG/CuS) support.
- Filling EG/CuS with varying ratios of palmitic acid (PA).
- Synthesis and characterization of the PA/EG/CuS composite phase change material.
Main Results:
- The PA/EG/CuS composite exhibited excellent chemical and thermal stability.
- Maximum thermal conductivity reached 0.372 W m⁻¹ K⁻¹.
- Maximum phase change thermal storage capacity was 260.4 kJ kg⁻¹.
- Optimal photothermal conversion efficiency achieved was 81.4%.
Conclusions:
- The PA/EG/CuS composite demonstrates superior thermal storage and photothermal conversion capabilities.
- The expanded graphite structure effectively enhances thermal conductivity and reduces leakage.
- This material offers a promising solution for solar energy utilization and storage.
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