Nano-encapsulated smart tunable phase change materials

We achieved the intercalation of different types of paraffins and their mixtures with triglycerides inside carbon nanotubes (CNTs) by means of self-sustained diffusion followed by a proper rinsing. The CNTs were investigated using TEM, which showed that they were intercalated inside and clean outside. For the mixtures melting can be realized in an interval of about 20 °C, which opens new opportunities for Phase Change Materials (PCM) attracting attention in relation to solar energy storage, cooling of power electronic devices and the energy-saving technologies.