Next-Generation PCM Architectures: Beyond Macro-Encapsulation
A special issue of Thermo (ISSN 2673-7264).
Deadline for manuscript submissions: 30 June 2026 | Viewed by 52
Special Issue Editors
Interests: mechanical engineering; thermal engineering; heat transfer; energy storage; renewable energy
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Interests: thermal energy storage; sustainable materials; waste valorisation; high-temperature energy systems; industrial decarbonisation
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Interests: chemistry; phase-change materials; polymorphism; esters; salt hydrates
Interests: building simulation; energy systems; renewable energy; applied optimization
Special Issue Information
Dear Colleagues,
Solid–liquid phase change materials (PCMs) are strong contenders for thermal energy storage systems, offering high energy density through their large latent heat of transformation. However, because the storage phase is liquid, shape-stabilisation strategies are essential. Classical micro- and macro-encapsulation methods are increasingly regarded as limited, as they are prone to rupture from volume expansion and introduce additional thermal barriers at the shell-PCM interface. Research is therefore moving towards advanced composite architectures that provide structural stability, improved thermal conductivity, and enhanced durability.
Authors are invited to contribute studies on the development and optimisation of advanced solid–liquid PCM systems that move beyond conventional encapsulation methods. Topics include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Porous host matrices such as nanofiber scaffolds
- Aerogels and foams
- Hybrid metallic systems, carbon-based materials or multifunctional fillers
- Chemical crosslinking or polymeric grafting strategies
- Scalable manufacturing approaches, such as 3D printing, casting or templating of innovative shape-stabilised PCMs.
Both experimental and numerical investigations addressing the fundamental interactions between PCMs and supporting matrices, their influence on melting dynamics and heat transfer behaviour, and performance analysis within applications are welcomed. Contributions spanning composite development, characterisation, and application-driven optimisation in areas such as solar energy storage, battery and electronics cooling, building integration, and industrial heat management are particularly encouraged.
Dr. Stefano Landini
Dr. M. Elena Navarro Rivero
Dr. Rebecca Ravotti
Dr. Usama Perwez
Guest Editors
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Keywords
- thermal energy storage
- thermal management
- renewable energy
- heat transfer
- phase change materials
- phase transition dynamics
- composite design
- thermal conductivity
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