Safety properties of 3D framework loaded polyethylene glycol composite phase change materials with MXene

Abstract

Phase change materials (PCMs) have been limited in their energy storage applications due to inherent defects, such as leakage and low thermal conductivity. Consequently, the development of highly efficient adsorptive PCMs has become a focal point of research. By constructing a three-dimensional (3D) porous aerogel support skeleton, a new composite PCM (CPCM) with a high loading rate (more tham 98%), leakage prevention, and multifunctional properties has been successfully developed. The system innovatively integrates a 3D MXene framework, constructed via the ice template method, which enhances the thermal conductivity from 0.374 W/(m·K) to 1.388 W/(m·K) and achieves 43 dB electromagnetic shielding efficiency in the Ku-band (12–18 GHz). Owing to the synergistic design, the material exhibits significant electro-thermal conversion, with a local temperature rise of 91 °C at an input voltage of 15 V. Additionally, its high energy storage density (latent heat value more than 175 J·g⁻¹) and easy-to-shape characteristics offer potential for multi-scenario applications in electronic thermal safety management and smart energy storage systems.