Synergistic enhancement of phase change materials through three-dimensional macropore lamellar structured MOF/EG composite for solar energy storage and beyond

Abstract

The concept of high energy storage density, negligible changes in volume and pressure after phase change, approximately constant operating temperature and non-toxic of solid–liquid phase change energy storage are very appealing properties that makes it a good strategy to store heat. However, leakage and single thermal energy storage function has become a bottleneck for the further advances of long-term thermal stability and multifunctionality. It is reassuring to know that Metal-organic frameworks (MOF)-porous carbon materials can offer a solution to continuity challenge for growing demand for multifunctionality in phase change materials (PCMs). Herein, a phase change material (PCM) composite with good shape stability, thermal conductivity, and photothermal conversion capability was designed. EG in the blended system can effectively prevent the agglomeration of ZIF particles while simultaneously providing a high specific surface area and pore volume for the adsorption of paraffin wax. The as-obtained PCM composite possesses a 3-fold enhancement in thermal conductivity, 95.56% photothermal conversion efficiency, and excellent shape stability. It demonstrates the potential of MOFs-enhanced PCM composites for thermal energy storage and highlight the importance of synergistic or hybridization strategies in the development of advanced materials for sustainable energy applications.