Abstract
The development of high-performance phase change materials (PCMs) with improved thermal conductivity and structural stability is crucial for next-generation thermal energy storage and management systems. Here, we present a simple, energy-efficient, microwave-assisted one-pot synthesis of shape-stabilized composite PCMs (SSCPCMs) based on eicosane (EI), expanded graphite (EG), and boron nitride (BN) nanoparticles. The combined effect of EG’s high thermal conductivity and porous structure with BN nanoparticles’ thermal stability helps form multifunctional composites with better energy storage and heat dissipation. Morphological and structural analyses confirm the uniform dispersion of BN nanoparticles and the effective containment of EI within the EG matrix, thereby maintaining the crystalline and chemical integrity of each component. The resulting SSCPCMs exhibit high latent heat (up to 253.3 kJ kg?1 for EI/EG15) and significantly enhanced thermal conductivity (up to 4.5 W m?1 K?1 for EI/EG25/BN5), demonstrating tunable thermal properties depending on the composite composition. Thermogravimetric and thermal imaging tests further confirm their enhanced thermal stability and excellent shape retention at high temperatures. The adjustable thermal properties and structural durability of these SSCPCMs, combined with a straightforward and energy-efficient manufacturing process, make them ideal for advanced thermal energy storage and battery cooling applications, especially in electric vehicles and portable electronics.
