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A heat storage module with a polymer structural matrix
Author(s) -
Feldman D.,
Shapiro M. M.,
Fazio P.
Publication year - 1985
Publication title -
polymer engineering and science
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.503
H-Index - 111
eISSN - 1548-2634
pISSN - 0032-3888
DOI - 10.1002/pen.760250705
Subject(s) - materials science , differential scanning calorimetry , vinyl chloride , vinyl alcohol , vinyl acetate , polymer , composite material , polyethylene , chemical engineering , polymer chemistry , high density polyethylene , copolymer , engineering , physics , thermodynamics
Test results are presented for a matrix type phase change thermal storage tile module with no surface covering, intended to transfer heat directly to and from room air at small temperature differences. Heat is stored and released by melting and freezing mixtures of fatty acids, which constitute up to half the weight of the tile. The polymeric matrices tested were powders or granules of poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC), poly (vinyl acetate) (PVAc), poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA), vinyl acetate‐vinyl chloride copolymer (VAc‐VC), and high density polyethylene (HDPE). The tiles keep their shape and dimensions without any weeping of liquid fatty acid, up to 37 or 51°C, depending on their composition. In the case of PVC and PVA, infrared spectra and differential scanning calorimetry indicate interactions between the polymer and the fatty acids, which may increase the surface tension and allow larger matrix pores before weeping begins. Some of the tiles were reinforced with glass fibers, and others with cellulose fibers. The best mechanical properties were obtained with 5 percent of long (85 to110 mm) glass fibers. Paraffin chloride and antimony trioxide served as satisfactory fire retardants.