Advanced porous geomaterial frameworks for high-performance latent heat storage

Abstract

Phase change materials (PCMs) have gained significant attention and emerged as a critical pillar of a sustainable energy future, particularly in the field of thermal energy storage (TES) applications. Despite their advantages, including high latent heat storage capacity and thermal regulation potential, their practical application faces challenges such as leakage during phase transitions, low thermal conductivity, and limited long-term stability. To overcome these shortcomings, geomaterials are proposed as supporting materials for the development of shape-stabilized PCMs (ss-PCMs), due to their chemical stability, cost-effectiveness, and porous structures that efficiently prevent PCM leakage. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of recent advancements in the role of geomaterials in PCMs stabilization, discussing various incorporation methods and examining the structural, thermal, and chemical interactions between PCMs and different geomaterials. The influence of surface modification on textural properties, such as pore size, distribution, and PCM loading capacity is critically examined. Additionally, the review outlines major challenges and technical limitations; while offering strategic recommendations to enhance the commercial viability of geomaterial-supported PCMs and to guide future research directions. This study seeks to promote the potential of geomaterials as a cleaner, sustainable and efficient pathway towards advancing TES technologies in building energy systems and thermal management. • Recent developments of geomaterial-based shape stabilized phase change materials were reviewed. • The effect of textural and microstructural characteristics of geomaterials on TES capacity were highlighted. • Applications of geomaterials-based ss-PCMs were assessed in construction materials. • Insights into challenges and future research were investigated to unlock the potential of TES systems.