Thermophysical Properties of Organic Waste-Based Phase Change Composites: An Overview

This work offers an extensive examination of composites containing commercially available phase change materials (PCMs) in combination with organic waste materials. The study encompasses a comprehensive analysis of thermal properties of organic waste-based PCMs, i.e. latent heat storage capacity, thermal conductivity, specific heat capacity and melting point. By consolidating the existing knowledge, the study underscores the potential of waste-based composite PCMs to support circular economy by repurposing waste materials for sustainable energy solutions while minimizing environmental impacts. It is reported that analyzed waste based composites can achieve high amounts of latent heat of up to 155 kJ kg-1, and significantly enhance the thermal conductivity of the pristine PCMs. However, there is a necessity for further research to facilitate the commercialization of waste-based PCMs.