Work

Intrinsically Flexible Polyurethane-Based Phase-Change Composites with High Heat Storage Density for Thermal Management Applications

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Phase change materials (PCMs) with high energy storage density and good flexibility are ideal for human therapy and thermal management. To overcome the common drawbacks of leakage and limited flexibility in conventional PCMs for wearable therapy, inherently flexible polyurethane-based phase change materials (PUPCMs) were first synthesized with a cross-linked network structure via a prepolymer method. To further enhance the energy storage capacity, a series of flexible phase change composites (FPCCs) with high energy storage density, outstanding flexibility, and stable shape retention were developed using a dual-encapsulation strategy. The potential of these FPCCs in personal thermal management was also systematically investigated. The 15%FPCC sample exhibited a melting temperature of 38.2 °C and a latent heat enthalpy of 97 J/g. Moreover, the composite demonstrated superior morphological stability, reliable cycling performance, and significantly improved heat storage and temperature regulation capabilities. Infrared thermography experiments confirmed the conformability of the material on various body regions, highlighting its promising thermal comfort and practical applicability. The as-prepared FPCCs integrate excellent phase change energy storage performance with remarkable flexibility and shape stability, thereby paving the way for the design, fabrication, and application of advanced flexible PCMs.

Source: ACS Omega

DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.5c08500

Authors: Jinshu Liu, Jiankun Dong, Wenzhao Shi

Institutions: Xi'an Polytechnic University, Northwestern Polytechnical University

Language: English

Topic: Phase Change Materials Research

Subfield: Mechanical Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,935