Thermophysical Properties of a Novel Nanoencapsulated Phase Change Material

Abstract

Thermophysical properties are important parameters that influence the performance of phase change materials (PCMs) and heat transfer fluids. Micro/nanoencapsulation is an effective technique for preventing leakage and enhancing thermophysical properties of PCMs. In the present study, novel d-mannitol nanocapsules with inorganic shells were synthesized as a medium-temperature PCM. The nanocapsulation was confirmed by scanning electronic microscopy. The specific heat and thermal diffusivity of the nanocapsules and their suspension with heat transfer oil as base fluid were measured by a differential scanning calorimeter and light flash apparatus. The thermal conductivity of the nanocapsule suspension was measured using a hot-disk thermal constants analyzer. The viscosity of the nanocapsule suspension was measured by a rotational rheometer. The results show that the thermal conductivity and thermal diffusivity of the nanocapsules were enhanced compared to the bulk of the PCM due to the inorganic shell. The specific heat, thermal conductivity, and viscosity of the nanocapsule suspension were increased compared to the base fluid. The potential of the nanocapsule suspension as a heat storage and transfer fluid was evaluated.