Can expanded graphite enhance thermal conductivity and thermal capacity?

Herein, unusual composite PCMs with simultaneously enhanced thermal conductivity and thermal capacity were prepared by loading expanded graphite (EG) after natural aging into the paraffin matrix via an integrated blending method for the first time.

What is thermally expanded graphite?

Thermally expanded graphite (TEG) is a vermicular-structured carbon material that can be prepared by heating expandable graphite up to 1150 °C using a muffle or tubular furnace.

Does expanded graphite improve the thermal conductivity of SEBS/hexadecane/LDPE/EG composites?

Shape-stabilized SEBS/Hexadecane/LDPE/EG composites were prepared by sonication method. Chemical structure of the composites was analyzed. Expanded graphite has a positive effect on thermal conductivity and shape-stability. The thermal conductivity of composites can be improved to 1.24 W/m. K by EG.

Which graphite is used to create thermal conductive networks?

The expanded graphite was employed to create the thermal conductive networks inside the shape stabilized PCM composite. Samples with several masses of LDPE and EG were assessed in terms of thermal conductivity, thermal stability, and chemical composition.

Why is expanded graphite a form-stable matrix?

Expanded graphite (EG) is widely used as a form-stable matrix because of its low density, high thermal conductivity, and multiple pores that can not only prevent liquid leakage, but also sharply enhance the thermal conductivity property of PCMs 25, 26.

Can a stabilization-form be used to store latent thermal energy?

For the storage of latent thermal energy (LTES), phase change materials (PCM) are the most commonly used. Nonetheless, their low thermal conductivity values and the liquid leakage on the transition phase of process limits their application. Hence, the stabilization-form can be a solution to surmount these two limitations.