Solutions

How do PCMs work?

A phase change material absorbs and releases thermal energy in order to maintain a regulated temperature.

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What are the Types of PCMs?

Microtek currently concentrates on organic PCMs and offers raw PCM Blends as well as three forms of microencapsulated PCM: slurry, wet cake and dry powder.

These forms have their own unique advantages and are 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.).

Forms Offered

Unencapsulated parrafin PCM Blend.

Standard Available Melt Points

-30C, -10C, 6C, 18C, 24C, 28C, 32C, 37C, 43C and 58C.

Description

Microencapsulation of the PCM creates a tiny, microscopic container for the PCM. The PCM is contained in this capsule during its solid and liquid state.

How to Use

The PCM microcapsules can be incorporated directly onto textiles, into latex or PU foams, into adhesives, into insulation, etc.

Forms Offered

Slurry: ~35- 45% solids aqueous suspension

Wet cake: ~70% solids, 30% water

Dry powder: >97% solids

Standard Available Melt Points

-10C, 6C, 18C, 24C, 28C, 32C, 37C, 43C and 57C.

Why Use PCMs?

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.

Building Consumption

Energy savings to owners when used in the construction of buildings and structures.

Consumer Electronics

Cool small electronic devices such as laptops, tablets and smartphones when space for active cooling systems is not available.

Textiles

Provide thermal regulation for textiles in a wide variety of areas including: activewear, hospital linens, outdoor gear, and more.

Bedding

Provide a better night’s sleep through thermally regulated mattresses, pillows, linen, and other bedding products.

Thermal Shippers

Thermally protect temperature-sensitive products (pharmaceuticals, vaccines, food products, etc.) during transit.

Energy Management

Heating and cooling relief in remote locations without access to electricity.

Alternative Energy

Heat storage and release in conjunction with alternative energy systems.

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Batteries

Regulate battery temperatures to increase life and prevent thermal runaway.

Solution Characteristics

• Capsule Components
Acrylic based capsule wall with parafifin core

• Enthalpy (varies by temperature)
~ 130 – 160 J/g

• Thermal Stability
~ 200°C

• Specific Gravity
~ 0.9 g/ml

• Bulk Density
~ 0.555 g/cm³

• Capsule Components
Melamine based capsule wall with paraffin core

• Enthalpy (varies by temperature)
~ 150 – 205 J/g

• Thermal Stability
~250°C

• Specific Gravity
~ 0.9 g/ml

• Bulk Density
~ 0.555 g/cm³

• Capsule Components
Melamine based capsule wall with biobased core

• Enthalpy (varies by temperature)
~ 150 – 205 J/g

• Thermal Stability
~250°C

• Specific Gravity
~ 0.9 g/ml

• Bulk Density
~ 0.555 g/cm³

• Capsule Components
Acrylic based capsule wall with parafifin core

• Enthalpy (varies by temperature)
~ 130 – 160 J/g

• Thermal Stability
~ 200°C

• Specific Gravity
~ 0.9 g/ml

• Bulk Density
~ 0.555 g/cm³

• Capsule Components
Melamine based capsule wall with paraffin core

• Enthalpy (varies by temperature)
~ 150 – 205 J/g

• Thermal Stability
~250°C

• Specific Gravity
~ 0.9 g/ml

• Bulk Density
~ 0.555 g/cm³

• Type
Paraffin-based

• Enthalpy (varies by temperature)
~ 165 – 245 J/g

• Characteristics
Above melt point: Liquid, colorless
Below freeze point: Solid, opaque

• Specific Gravity
~ 0.9 g/ml

How to Use PCMs?

We have extensive knowledge in the application of phase change materials.

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Chemical Compatibility

Micronal/fibratek
Avoid: perchloroethylene, acetone, and THF

nextek/vivtek/MPCM
Recommended: Non-Polar, aprotic solvents, water

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Dispersing Aids

Rheovis AT120 (Visc. Modifier)
Sokalan AT120 (Thickener)

nextek/vivtek/MPCM
CTAB (Surfactant)
Tween (Non-ionic Surfactant)
Span (Non-ionic Surfactant)
Sodium Laure Sulfate (Surfactant)
CTAB (Surfactant)
SDBS (Surfactant)

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Recommended Materials and Binders

Micronal
Acrylates, Acetates, Polyethylenes, Polystyrenes, Foams, HSL, epoxy and resins.

nextek and MPCM
Acrylic-based
Urethanes-based

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Pumping Methods

Recommended: Diaphragm Peristaltic Progressive Cavity

Avoid: Gear Pumps

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Mixing and Blades

Recommended: Pitched Blade Turbines, Sweep or Prop Blades

Avoid: Cowles Blades and High Shear mixing

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Mixing Parameters

Speeds vary based on vessel size, fill level, and viscosity. Low speeds to deter cavitation.

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Development Kit

The Microtek Development Kit assists you in identifying the best solution for your specific requirement. By selecting up to three specific PCM samples: type, form and temperature, the Development Kit provides the resources to personally test and experiment with the PCM materials to determine the best performance for your application.

Start Your Research

Where are PCMs Used

Consumer Products

Packaging

Building & Construction

Bedding

Electronics