Characterization of linear low-density polyethylene with graphene as thermal energy storage material

Abstract

In this work authors reported the preparation and characterization of composite phase change material (CPCM) using the direct-synthesis method by blending the Linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE) with Carboxyl Functionalized Graphene (f-Gr). LLDPE is selected as base material and f-Gr is dispersed into three different concentrations 1.0, 3.0, and 5.0 wt% and referred as CPCM-1, CPCM-2 and CPCM-3 respectively. Experimental analysis is carried out through Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Differential scanning calorimeter (DSC). The preset study assesses the influences of nanoparticle concentration on thermophysical properties, thermal performance and thermal storage characteristics of CPCMs. Results show that addition of f-Gr improves the thermal conductivity and latent heat of fusion of LLDPE. However, f-Gr slightly reduces the melting temperature and decreased the crystallization temperature. Therefore, this study reveals that f-Gr, addition to LLDPE has substantial potential for improving the thermal energy storage performance. © 2019 IOP Publishing Ltd.