Investigation on the Synthesis, Characterization and Performance Analysis of a Hybrid Shape Stabilized Phase Change Material for Enhanced Thermal Energy Storage

Abstract

Phase change materials (PCMs) are used for effective thermal management in electronic devices. This study introduces a hybrid shape-stabilized phase change material (SSPCM) that combines n-eicosane as the PCM with a porous graphene/MXene foam matrix, encapsulated in a thermally enhanced epoxy resin. This composite demonstrates excellent thermal conductivity, structural stability, and minimal leakage. Characterization was conducted using scanning electron microscopy, x-ray diffraction, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, and Raman spectroscopy, while differential scanning calorimetry was used to assess thermal behaviors. The optimized hybrid SSPCM, comprised of a graphene sponge with 40% n-eicosane, achieved remarkable properties with an enthalpy of fusion of 241 J/g and a thermal conductivity of 0.746 W/mK, demonstrating minimal leakage and high thermal stability throughout repeated test cycles. The implementation of this novel SSPCM resulted in an 8°C reduction in temperature compared to an electronic heating scenario without PCM on an aluminum (Al) surface.