Progress in the structure and applications of smart phase change materials with shape memory properties

PCMs have been widely used in increasingly complex energy storage systems. Smart PCMs with shape memory properties are a hot class of materials that can withstand certain deformations and return to their original shape under stimulation. They have great potential in the smart applications of flexible electronic devices and wearable devices. In order to achieve shape memory properties, several strategies have been proposed to develop flexible PCMs with both energy storage properties and shape memory. In this paper, we systematically reviewed these strategies, including (1) Combination PCMs with elastic polymer matrices. (2) Encapsulation of PCM into shape memory foam. (3) Composition PCM with aerogel. (4) Development of SSPCM based on molecular structure design. (5) Spinning PCM into fiber morphology. Detailed discussions encompass the potential applications of shape memory PCMs in electronic device thermal management, wearable device development, and other applications. Lastly, the future research directions and challenges of smart PCMs are put forward and discussed.