Stearic-acid/carbon-nanotube composites with tailored shape-stabilized phase transitions and light–heat conversion for thermal energy storage

The development of functional materials with both light–heat conversion and thermal energy storage properties is of crucial importance for efficient utilization of sunlight to meet the growing demand for sustainable energy. In this work, the shape-stabilized phase change composites were designed and prepared by integration of stearic acid (SA) and acid-treated carbon nanotubes (a-CNTs). The a-CNTs not only acted as a flexible matrix but also endowed the composites high light–heat conversion ability. The reversible phase transitions shifted from high temperatures (Tm = 74 °C, Tf = 57 °C) of pure SA to near room temperature (Tm = ∼30 °C, Tf = ∼22 °C) of SA/a-CNTs composites, probably resulting from the strong interface confinement effect. The phase change enthalpy of the SA/a-CNTs composite could also be tailored by changing the mass ratio of SA and a-CNTs. The composites containing SA of 54.2 wt.%, 67.8 wt.% and 79.5 wt.% presented the melting enthalpy of 76.3 J/g, 98.8 J/g and 111.8 J/g, respectively. Moreover, the phase transition of SA/a-CNTs composite could be driven by sunlight for the energy storage/release. Therefore, this research provides a new platform for improving solar utilization, and understanding the phase transition behaviors of organic PCMs in dimensionally confined environments as well.