Abstract
n-alkanes and their blends, are characterized as phase change materials (PCMs) due to their superior thermodynamic performances, for storing thermal energy in various practical applications (solar or wind energy). Such materials present some limitations, including lower thermal conductivity, supercooling, phase segregation, volume expansion, among others. To address these problems, microencapsulation of n-alkanes and their blends is being successfully developed. A considerable amount of works has been published in this regard. Hence, the aim of this review is focused on two aspects: summarize the pure n-alkanes and their blends PCMs; describe their microencapsulation. PCM-interesting characteristics (transition temperatures and enthalpies) of pure n-alkanes, multinary alkanes and paraffins (over 140 types) were listed, while the phase equilibrium evaluations of multinary alkanes were elaborated. The essential information: core and shell materials, crystallization and melting characteristics, encapsulation/thermal storage efficiencies, thermal conductivities and synthesis methods of microencapsulated n-alkanes and their blends were listed (over 200 types). A brief introduction of the synthesis methods, such as physical, chemical, physical-chemical and self-assembly processes, were presented. The characterization of microcapsules like thermal properties (phase change behaviors, thermal conductivity and thermal stability), physical properties (microcapsules size distribution & morphologies, efficiencies, mechanical strength and leakage) and chemical properties were discussed and analyzed. Finally, the practical applications of microencapsulated n-alkanes and their blends in the field of slurry, buildings, textiles and foam were reported.
Original language | English |
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Journal | Energy and Fuels |
Early online date | 30 May 2018 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | E-pub ahead of print - 30 May 2018 |
Keywords
- n-alkanes
- phase change materials
- microencapsulation
- thermal energy storage
- microencapsulated phase change materials
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- General Chemical Engineering
- Fuel Technology
- Energy Engineering and Power Technology