Polyurethane/graphene nanocomposites as phase change materials for thermal energy storage

In this work polyurethane/graphene nanocomposites containing segments of poly(ethylene glycol) with defined molecular weight were obtained as new phase change materials for thermal energy storage. The prepared materials were investigated by means of DSC, TG, SEM and ultrasonic non-destructive methods. Enhancements in the thermal stability and thermal conductivity in polyurethane systems modified with graphene were found which is important for thermal energy storage applications. Additionally materials modified with graphene showed lower supercooling in comparison to samples without graphene.