Review of phase change materials for cold thermal energy storage

Abstract

Due to high energy density, phase change materials for cold storage have a great potential for improving the efficiency of energy utilization and saving energy. This paper defined the categories of the phase change materials with the solid-liquid phase change points below 20 °C, which are widely used for cold storage, and reviewed their thermophysical properties. In addition, the paper further compared different categories of phase change materials regarding their thermophysical and chemical properties. Finally, the paper discussed about the research and application of phase change materials for cold storage in the future.