Highly flexible composite phase-change material PA-EG-AgNPs achieved through self-assembly of nano-silver for enhanced photothermal performance

Abstract

This study presents an innovative composite phase-change material (cPCM) based on paraffin-expanded graphite (PA-EG), where AgNPs self-assemble onto the PA-EG surface. In comparison with the base material, the resulting composite, PA-EG12Ag-G, achieves a notably elevated thermal conductivity of 2.987 W/(m·K), emphasizing its superior heat conduction. Remarkably, the photothermal conversion efficiency sees a significant boost of 20.1 %, underlining its enhanced capacity for converting light to heat, attributed to the surface plasmon resonance of AgNPs. The cPCM also features a substantial phase change enthalpy of 130.5 J/g, ensuring exceptional heat storage capability. With a phase transition temperature of 46.3 °C, it gives multiple-choice for applications. Moreover, the material maintains outstanding room-temperature flexibility, making it being well-suited for practical use, such as a thermal management or solar thermal energy storage. The improvement in photothermal efficiency, facilitated by the surface plasmon resonance of AgNPs, adds a novel dimension to the material's capabilities, enhancing its potential for diverse applications.