One-step preparation of double network phase change composite with GO for enhanced thermal management performance

We developed a novel functional material that combined porous structures with solidified phase change materials (PCMs). This material, known as a double network Polyethylene Glycol/Graphene Oxide/Polyacrylic Acid phase change aerogel (PGA), was synthesized by the one-step method of solution polymerization. Polyethylene glycol (PEG) was chosen as the PCM, while polyacrylic acid (PAA) and graphene oxide (GO) were used as the first and second networks. The double networks in PGA served to immobilize PEG through hydrogen-bonding interaction and interwining. As a result, the PGA exhibited excellent phase change performance, with a phase change enthalpy of 108.9 J/g and an impressive enthalpy efficiency of 93.1%. The PGA possesses a porosity of 34%, a specific surface area of 53 m2/g, an average pore diameter of 0.35 μm. The three-dimensional network skeleton, consisting of PEG, GO, and PAA, leveraged the GO to enhance phase change conductivity, while maintaining thermal insulation through a uniform mesh structure. Moreover, the PGA material demonstrates remarkable thermal stability even after 35 thermal cycles. When used to construct insulated cups, the PGA materials exhibited superior thermal insulation and phase change modulation compared to air laminated glass cups. This highlights its potential application in reducing energy consumption and increasing energy utilization efficiency.