Phase Change Materials (PCM)
PCMs, also known as phase change materials, are substances that have the ability to absorb or release considerable amounts of energy in the form of heat during a phase transition. These materials are characterized by the fact that they can absorb or release enormous amounts of heat at a specific, often narrowly defined temperature - their phase change temperature. Compared to traditional storage methods such as water heaters, they store energy more efficiently as they keep their energy in a latent state, meaning that the stored energy is hidden in their phase change and not by direct temperature increase.
A look behind how PCM works
PCMs work on the basis of a change of aggregate state, whereby they melt when heated and solidify when cooled. During this process, they absorb or emit energy without significantly changing their own temperature. This makes PCM an effective store of latent heat. The advantage of PCM is that the stored heat can be released or absorbed at a specific temperature, which is determined by the choice of material. This property makes it particularly useful for applications that require precise temperature control.
How PCMs are used in industry
A popular area of application for PCMs in industry is temperature-controlled transportation, where PCMs are used to keep the temperature of perishable goods such as food and pharmaceutical products stable over several days without an energy source. PCMs also play a key role in the thermal management of batteries in electric vehicles, where they help to regulate operating temperatures and increase battery performance and safety. In building technology, they are used to increase the efficiency of heating and cooling systems by storing the heat or cold produced at peak times and releasing it again when required.
Typical examples of PCMs that are popular in industry
- Kerosene wax
- Fatty acids
- Salt hydrates
- Eutectic salts
- Latent heat carbon, a composite of PCM and graphite