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Review of Selected PCMs and Their Applications in the Industry and Energy Sector

Author

Listed:
  • Łukasz Mika

    (Department of Thermal and Fluid Flow Machines, Faculty of Energy and Fuels, AGH University of Krakow, al. A. Mickiewicza 30, 30-059 Krakow, Poland)

  • Ewelina Radomska

    (Department of Thermal and Fluid Flow Machines, Faculty of Energy and Fuels, AGH University of Krakow, al. A. Mickiewicza 30, 30-059 Krakow, Poland)

  • Karol Sztekler

    (Department of Thermal and Fluid Flow Machines, Faculty of Energy and Fuels, AGH University of Krakow, al. A. Mickiewicza 30, 30-059 Krakow, Poland)

  • Andrzej Gołdasz

    (Department of Thermal and Fluid Flow Machines, Faculty of Energy and Fuels, AGH University of Krakow, al. A. Mickiewicza 30, 30-059 Krakow, Poland)

  • Wiesław Zima

    (Department of Energy, Cracow University of Technology, al. Jana Pawła II 37, 31-864 Krakow, Poland)

Abstract

The growing global energy demand, coupled with environmental concerns, necessitates the development of efficient energy storage technologies. Phase Change Materials (PCMs) have emerged as a promising solution for thermal energy storage (TES) due to their ability to store and release latent heat during phase transitions. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of PCMs, exploring their classifications based on phase transition types, chemical compositions, and thermophysical properties. Additionally, the review highlights advancements in developing organic, inorganic, and metallic PCMs and evaluates their potential applications in sectors such as solar energy, construction, and automotive industries. Methodologies include a detailed examination of the strengths, limitations, and solutions to challenges such as low thermal conductivity, phase separation, and supercooling. The results summarize the diverse applications of PCMs, emphasizing their critical role in enhancing energy efficiency and sustainability. The review concludes with recommendations for overcoming current limitations and future directions for PCM research and technology integration across various industries.

Suggested Citation

  • Łukasz Mika & Ewelina Radomska & Karol Sztekler & Andrzej Gołdasz & Wiesław Zima, 2025. "Review of Selected PCMs and Their Applications in the Industry and Energy Sector," Energies, MDPI, vol. 18(5), pages 1-27, March.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jeners:v:18:y:2025:i:5:p:1233-:d:1604366
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    References listed on IDEAS

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