Experimental studies on the performance of eicosane- polyethylene- expanded graphite based composite phase change materials (CPCMs) for latent heat thermal storage

Abstract

Phase change materials (PCMs) can significantly utilize solar energy and enhance energy efficiency in buildings by storing thermal energy in latent heat form. However, a key obstacle to the broader adoption of Eicosane (EPCM) is its insufficient capacity to prevent leaks and facilitate heat transfer. This concept of blending EPCM, low-density polyethylene (PE), and expanded graphite (EG) is explored through hot melt extrusion (HME), offering an economical method for producing high-performance composite phase change materials (CPCMs). In this study, various blend formulations are extruded and examined for density, specific heat capacity , thermal conductivity , diffusivity , effusivity and latent heat thermal storage capacity of the CPCMs. After the EG is introduced at concentrations of 5, 10, and 15 wt% the thermal conductivity solid ratio increased by 58.7 %, 158.29 %, and 208.4 % and its liquid ratio also increased by 38.7 %, 72.5 %, and 193.6 %, respectively. In general, the enhanced heat transfer performance of the CPCMs in both phases is attributed. The CPCM, when combined with 40 % EPCM and 15 % EG, provided a high energy storage per unit mass. It possesses a large enthalpy of 118 kJ/kg and has the ability to prevent the release of Eicosane. The obtained results indicate a good potential for industrially applied CPCMs. • Shape-stabilized composites (CPCM) are prepared by hot-melt extrusion (HME). • The guarded hot plates method presents an optimized measuring time of CPCMs and economical built up. • (EPCM/PE/EG) possess a suitable latent heat, great thermal conductivity and prevents leakage of EPCM. • The EG performs the best heat transfer enhancement of EPCM. • The extruded CPCM could be a promising TES material for the mid-high temperature application.