Key Findings
A comprehensive review paper on thermal energy storage (TES) systems utilizing phase change materials (PCMs) has been published, reconfirming their superior properties of high energy storage density and isothermal storage processes. This review extensively discusses the crucial role PCMs play in enhancing energy efficiency across diverse fields, including heat pumps, solar energy systems, spacecraft thermal control, and building heating/cooling. Notably, it also touches upon the potential impact of PCMs in electric vehicle (EV) battery thermal management, anticipating significant contributions to sustainable energy solutions.
Technical / Clinical Details
PCMs are materials that absorb and release large amounts of latent heat during melting or solidification, thereby storing substantial thermal energy within a relatively narrow temperature range. This capability helps suppress temperature fluctuations and improves the overall stability and efficiency of energy systems. The review introduces various types of PCMs (e.g., paraffins, fatty acids, salt hydrates) and their characteristics, as well as approaches to enhance their performance through microencapsulation and compounding. Specifically, in solar thermal systems, PCMs enable stable heat supply by storing solar energy during the day and utilizing it at night or on cloudy days. In heat pump systems, PCMs can act as heat sources or heat sinks, improving the system’s Coefficient of Performance (COP) and achieving energy savings. In EV battery thermal management, PCMs contribute to extending battery life and improving performance by preventing overheating and maintaining the optimal operating temperature range.
Background & Context
Global energy demand continues to rise, while issues like global warming and fossil fuel depletion intensify. In this context, thermal energy storage technology is gaining attention as a critical means to resolve mismatches between energy supply and demand and to facilitate the integration of renewable energy sources. Due to their high energy storage capacity and temperature stability, PCMs offer much more compact and efficient solutions compared to conventional sensible heat storage materials (like water or stone). With increasing demand for optimizing energy consumption across a wide range of fields—including buildings, industrial processes, mobility, and space exploration—PCMs are opening new frontiers in energy efficiency.
Strategic Significance & Outlook
For the broader adoption of PCM technology, further cost reduction of materials, improvement in thermal conductivity, assurance of long-term chemical and thermal stability, and enhanced safety (especially fire resistance) are essential. Future research will focus on the development of bio-based PCMs and hybrid PCMs, enhancement of thermal transport properties through compounding with nanomaterials, and improvement in manufacturing process scalability. Furthermore, integration with smart grid and IoT technologies holds the potential for PCM-based TES systems to manage energy more dynamically and optimize overall system performance. These advancements are crucial for PCMs to establish their position as one of the key technologies for building a sustainable society.
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