Novel semi‐interpenetrating network structural phase change composites with high phase change enthalpy

High phase change enthalpy, controllable temperature, and stable shape can expand the application of phase change materials (PCMs) in energy storage. In this study, a series of novel form‐stable PCMs with high phase change enthalpy (169–195 J/g) and controllable temperature (45.3–61.4°C) were prepared. The PCMs exhibited a semi‐interpenetrating polymer network (semi‐IPN) structure resulting from the combination of polyethylene glycol (PEG) and a three‐dimensional (3‐D) network gel. The gel itself featured an inherent phase change characteristic and a 3‐D network structure. Thus, it improved the phase transition enthalpy of the materials and facilitated the formation of a semi‐IPN that endowed the materials with excellent form‐stable properties. In addition, the latent heat of the composites (169–195 J/g) is much higher than most of the previously reported composites using PEG as phase change component (68–132 J/g). © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J , 64: 688–696, 2018