An energy-efficient composite by using expanded graphite stabilized paraffin as phase change material

Thermal energy storage (TES) composites were prepared by employing expanded graphite (EG) stabilized paraffin as phase change material (PCM) and wood flour/high density polyethylene (WF/HDPE) as matrix. The morphology and structure of EG and form-stable phase change material (FSPCM) were investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffractometer (XRD) and mercury intrusion porosimetry. The fabricated TES composites with different FSPCM types and contents were characterized by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermogravimetric (TG), infrared thermography and laserflash thermal analysis. Physical and mechanical strength were also evaluated. The results showed that: (1) the EG had abundant pores and most of the pores were below 26 μm, the EG stabilized paraffin material showed perfect stability without any chemical reactions; (2) thermal performance indicated that the TES composites had efficient temperature-regulated ability, but thermal durability need to be further enhanced; (3) addition of paraffin and EG destroyed the interface bonding of the TES composites and mechanical properties appeared slight decrease; (4) the satisfying thermal performance and acceptable mechanical property indicating the TES composites can be used as building material for temperature conditioning.