Preparation and Characterization of Bio-Based PLA/PEG/g-C₃N₄ Low-Temperature Composite Phase Change Energy Storage...

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Sustainable Energy

Background:

• Growing energy and environmental concerns necessitate sustainable development pathways.
• Bio-based polymeric phase change materials offer promising solutions for energy storage challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

• To synthesize and characterize a fully degradable composite phase change energy storage material (CPCM).
• To evaluate the compatibility, mechanical, and thermal properties of the novel CPCM for potential applications.

Main Methods:

• Confinement synthesis of polyethylene glycol (PEG20000)/polylactic acid (PLA)/g-C3N4 CPCM.
• Characterization using FTIR, SEM, XRD, nanoindentation, DSC, LFA, and TG.
• Optimization of material composition for desired properties.

Main Results:

• The CPCM exhibited good physical co-mingling, with optimal consistency at a PLA:PEG:g-C3N4 ratio of 6:3:1.
• PEG addition reduced PLA hardness, with maximum hardness reaching 0.137 GPa at 6:3:1.
• High latent enthalpy (106.1 kJ/kg endothermic, 80.05 kJ/kg exothermic) was observed at 3:6:1.
• Enhanced thermal conductivity (0.30-0.32 W/(m·K)) and stability up to 250 °C were achieved.

Conclusions:

• The developed CPCM is a fully degradable, bio-based material with excellent thermal energy storage capabilities.
• The material's tunable mechanical and thermal properties make it suitable for diverse applications.
• Potential applications include solar thermal power generation, transportation, and building construction.