Phase Change Materials for Thermal Energy Storage: A Concise Review

Thermal energy and its storage systems play an extensive role in day-to-day life. They store renewable energy and are capable of recovering generated heat from different systems. Storage of thermal energy can be classified into three types: sensible, latent and sorption heat storages. Thermal heat storages use different types of materials based on their capacity of heat storage, stability of duration and thermal conductivity. Various phase change materials (PCMs) that are suitable for thermal storage are reported. Low conversion ability limits their effectiveness. We reviewed some of the traditional materials synthesized recently that are used for thermal energy storage (TES). Recently developed TES materials exhibit high thermal conductivity, reduced super cooling and multiple phase change temperatures. Nano-enhanced PCMs produced an increase in thermal conductivity up to 32% with a reduction in latent heat by 32%. At this juncture, MXenes with high performance and extraordinary properties (thermal, mechanical, etc.) are of special significance. MXenes displayed an increased thermal conductivity up to 16% and 94% efficiency. In view of their structure and adaptability to be used in thermal storage systems, an attempt was made to review their role also in thermal storage applications. It is observed that MXenes highly impact storage and efficiency. Apart from MXenes, various types of PCMs along with their thermal characteristics are presented.