Three-dimensional rGO@sponge framework/paraffin wax composite shape-stabilized phase change materials for solar-thermal energy conversion and storage

Three-dimensional (3D) graphene-reinforced structural materials with excellent solar-thermal conversion, mechanical and thermal transfer properties present attractive prospects for the fabrication of high-performance composite phase change materials (PCMs). Herein, multifunctional 3D continuous sponge frameworks wrapping with reduced graphene oxide (rGO) are facilely prepared via simply circular impregnation and in-suit reduction process. Further, the stable combination of 3D support material and phase change matrix through vacuum melting infiltration can successfully obtain the rGO@sponge framework/paraffin wax (rGO@SF/PW) composite shape-stabilized PCMs. As an advanced energy conversion and storage PCMs, the rGO@SF/PW achieves efficient solar-thermal conversion effciency of 85%, excellent energy storage properties (phase-change enthalpy of 170.4 J/g for the loading amount of 90 wt%), high thermal transfer performance and good cycling thermal stability. Based on the comprehensive performances of the rGO@SF/PW, domestic storage systems for solar-thermal water are designed to broaden the application of PCMs in the solar-thermal energy area.