A phase change material absorbs and releases thermal energy in order to maintain a regulated temperature.
10 Facts about Phase Change Materials
Can phase change materials (PCM) be a valuable part of a thermal management solution? These ten facts can help you answer that question and determine what PCM might be right for you.
Phase change materials are unique as they provide completely passive thermal regulation – no power is needed to create this thermal regulation. In addition, PCMs can be used over and over again.
Energy savings to owners when used in the construction of buildings and structures.
Cool small electronic devices such as laptops and smartphones when space for active cooling systems is not available.
Provide thermal regulation for textiles in a wide variety of areas including: active wear, infant car seats, hospital linens, outdoor gear, and more.
Provide a better night’s sleep through thermally regulated mattresses, pillows, linen, and other bedding products.
Keep temperature-sensitive products (pharmaceuticals, vaccines, food products, etc.) at the right temperature during transit.
Heating and cooling relief in remote locations without access to electricity.
Heat storage and release in conjunction with alternative energy systems.
Which PCM is Right for You?
Due to the many advantages of organic PCMs over other the other two main PCM types, we will concentrate on organic PCMs. Microtek offers PCMs in three main forms:
Each of these forms has its own unique advantages and is best suited to certain applications.
PCM
Microencapsulated PCM
Description
This is the phase change material itself in its' simplest form. The material is a solid below its' melt point and a liquid above its' melt point.
How to Use
The material can be melted above its' melt point and then poured into the suitable container (pouch, piping, plastic molded parts, etc.).
Shipping and packaging, solar energy systems, radiant heat flooring, industrial/commercial apparel (work vests, etc.), thermal pouches
Description
Encapsulation of the PCM creates a tiny, microscopic container for the PCM. This means that regardless of whether the PCM is in its' solid or liquid state, the PCM will be contained. The capsules have excellent chemical and thermal stability (250°C+).
How to Use
The PCM microcapsules can be incorporated directly onto textiles, into latex or PU foams, into adhesives, into insulation, etc.
Need your coffee to stay hot? Need your drink to stay cold?PCMsare available in a wide variety of temperatures to help regulate temperature range that you need.
Many vaccines are temperature sensitive. PCMs in combination with innovative packaging designs help agencies around the world dependably transport vaccines to remote locations in developing countries.
High performance textiles have can and have been developed that can provide thermal regulation in such diverse areas as active wear apparel, hospital linens, outdoor gear, infant car seats, etc.
What type of PCM is a good fit for your application?
