Pseudokiinteäfaasimuutosmateriaalit

Pseudokiinteäfaasimuutosmateriaalit, often abbreviated as pPCM, are a class of materials designed to exhibit phase change behavior without undergoing a true solid-to-solid or solid-to-liquid transformation. Instead, they leverage a mechanism where a component within the material undergoes a reversible phase change, such as melting or solidification, but this change is contained within a solid matrix or structure. This prevents macroscopic shape change and potential leakage associated with conventional phase change materials (PCMs).

The core principle behind pPCMs involves incorporating a conventional PCM into a porous solid support or encapsulating it within a rigid structure. The support material, often a metal foam, ceramic, or polymer matrix, provides the structural integrity. When the encapsulated PCM melts, the liquid phase is held within the pores or compartments of the solid matrix, preventing it from flowing out. Upon cooling, the PCM solidifies within the same structure.

This design offers several advantages. The structural stability of pPCMs is maintained throughout the phase change cycle, making them suitable for applications where shape retention is critical. They can also exhibit enhanced thermal conductivity due to the presence of the solid matrix, facilitating faster heat transfer. Applications for pPCMs include thermal energy storage in buildings, temperature regulation in electronics, and thermal management in aerospace. The development of pPCMs aims to combine the high energy storage density of PCMs with the robustness and ease of handling of solid materials.