Low‐temperature thermal energy storage with polymer‐derived ceramic aerogels. Issue 1 (18th August 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Zambotti, Andrea; Biesuz, Mattia; Bortolotti, Mauro; Dorigato, Andrea; Valentini, Francesco; Fredi, Giulia; Sorarù, Gian Domenico
• Is Part Of: International journal of applied ceramic technology. Volume 20:Issue 1(2023)
• Page Start: 39
• Page End: 50
• Publication Date: 2022-08-18
• Subjects: aerogel -- phase change material -- polymer derived ceramics -- thermal energy storage; Ceramics -- Periodicals; Ceramics -- Technological innovations -- Periodicals; 620.1405
• DOI: 10.1111/ijac.14158
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1546-542X

Abstract

Abstract: Thermal energy storage (TES) with phase change materials (PCMs) presents some advantages when shape‐stabilization is performed with ceramic aerogels. These low‐density and ultra‐porous materials guarantee high energy density and can be easily regenerated through simple pyrolysis while accounting for moderate mechanical properties. However, the small pore size that typically characterizes these sorbents can hinder the crystallization of PCMs, slightly reducing the energy density of the stabilized compound. In this work, we present the use of polymer‐derived mesoporous SiC and SiOC aerogels for the stabilization of polyethylene glycol and a fatty alcohol (PureTemp 23), having a melting temperature of 17 and 23°C, respectively. Their TES performances point out maximum thermal efficiency values of around 80%. These performances are discussed accounting for the results of thermogravimetric analysis, differential scanning calorimetry, and leaking tests.