Biobased phase change materials in energy storage and thermal management technologies

Abstract

Harnessing the potential of phase change materials can revolutionise thermal energy storage, addressing the discrepancy between energy generation and consumption. Phase change materials are renowned for their ability to absorb and release substantial heat during phase transformations and have proven invaluable in compact thermal energy storage technologies and thermal management applications. Present-day solutions mainly comprise of non-renewable phase change materials, where cyclability and sustainability concerns are increasingly being discussed. In pursuit of sustainable energy models, phase change material research has shifted towards biobased materials. This review explores the growing field of biobased phase change materials, aiming to identify prevailing trends, potential opportunities, and future applications. In addition, the persisting challenges of biobased phase change materials are discussed, where a critical dialogue on the current obstacles and research gaps is presented, offering a glimpse into the future of this rapidly evolving field. The authors furthermore present novel methods to enhance the integration of biobased phase change materials into thermal energy storage applications, ensuring their seamless adoption and maximum efficacy. With an analysis of 180 selected works, this review paints a vivid picture of the capabilities and promising prospects of biobased phase change materials, whilst highlighting the future research questions needing to be addressed.