Development of a novel composite phase change material based on paints and brick for energy storage applications in agricultural greenhouses

Abstract

This study addresses challenges associated with supercooling, phase separation, and inadequate thermal properties in Na2SO4·10H2O (SSD) by expanding the application of inorganic hydrate salt phase change materials within agricultural greenhouses. A novel composite phase change material, Na2SO4·10H2O-Al2O3 (NAPCM), was successfully synthesized using the vacuum impregnation method. NAPCM was strategically incorporated into paints and hollow bricks, leading to the creation of innovative phase change paint and phase change bricks designed for efficient thermal energy storage in agricultural greenhouses. The investigation revealed the homogeneous dispersion of porous Al2O3 particles in SSD, effectively preventing phase separation in NAPCM and ensuring its durable shape stability. The interaction between SSD and porous Al2O3 remained purely physical, with porous Al2O3 acting as an effective modifier to adjust various thermal properties of SSD. Optimal mass ratio determination for the combination of paint and NAPCM particles resulted in a 9:1 ratio, ensuring the uniform distribution of NAPCM particles within the paint matrix. This achieved a particle size averaging 290.93 μm with no discernible leakage features. The phase change paint exhibited an impressive solid content of 56.62 %, demonstrating exceptional resistance to water, alkali, salt, and abrasion. In thermal plate testing, the phase change paint significantly decelerated the heating rate. Infrared thermal imaging observations depicted circular areas with temperatures notably lower than their surroundings, indicating NAPCM's ability to impede heat absorption during the heating process, thereby reducing the rate of temperature change. The phase change paint also exhibited a slower cooling rate in the cooling test. Simultaneously, phase change bricks demonstrated superior thermal insulation compared to ordinary bricks. Throughout the heat storage phase, the temperature of the phase change greenhouse wall was lower than that of an ordinary greenhouse, while in the heat release phase, it was higher. The phase change greenhouse, relative to its ordinary counterpart, demonstrated superior insulation effects, creating a warm environment conducive to plant growth. This advancement enhances the energy storage performance of agricultural greenhouses, providing a novel solution for improving energy efficiency and environmental sustainability.