Development, characterization and themo-physical analysis of energy storage material doped with TiO2 and CuO nano-additives

Abstract

The paper presents the results of an experimental investigation on chemical stability, surface morphology, and thermo-physical properties of phase change material integrated with nano additives. The research aims to evaluate impact of varying nano-particle concentration on thermal performance of phase change material. The phase change material magnesium dichloride hexahydrate and potassium chloride mixed in different mass ratio along with different wt% concentration of nano-additives titanium dioxide and copper oxide to prepare novel phase change material. Characterization methods such as Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy, Scanning electron microscope, Energy-dispersive X-ray analysis, and Differential scanning calorimeter analysis were employed. The Fourier transform infrared spectra indicated physical interactions between phase change material and nano-additives, while Energy-dispersive X-ray analysis confirmed elemental composition, and Scanning electron microscope demonstrated uniform distribution. The improved thermal properties of samples were reflected in their phase change enthalpy (284.57 J/g to 324.63 J/g), minimal energy loss (0.91 %–2.96 %), and low supercooling (0.3 %–5.26 %). Notably, doping with 1.5 wt% of titanium dioxide and copper oxide enhanced thermal conductivity by up to 117.07 % and specific heat capacity by up to 48.09 %. The introduction of nanoparticles significantly improves heat transfer characteristics, resulting in enhanced energy retention, reduced energy loss during phase transitions, decreased supercooling, and increased physical stability. These results suggest that optimized phase change material with nano-additives is highly effective for applications requiring stable and efficient thermal management.