MXene aerogel-based phase change film for synergistic thermal management inspired by antifreeze beetles

To survive extreme weather, antifreeze beetles have a smart thermal management system, which relies on light absorption by the black surface and energy storage by antifreeze proteins. Inspired by the energy storage behavior of antifreeze proteins, we design a composite film, which is fabricated via impregnation of organic phase change material (PCM) in a surface-modified MXene/bacterial-cellulose aerogel. The resulting composite aerogel-based PCM film shows an increased loading capacity of organic PCM, increased phase change latent heat, and enhanced mechanical properties. Combining these thermal insulation and thermal energy storage properties, a submillimeter-thick film with an aerogel layer can maintain a comfortable temperature range for more than 800 s. This is more than double compared to the system without the films, and is a proof of concept for bioinspired photothermal-conversion/ thermal-storage integration.

Automated summary

Inspired by the thermal management system of antifreeze beetles, researchers have designed a composite film that enhances the loading capacity and latent heat of organic phase change materials. This film, with its thermal insulation and thermal energy storage properties, can maintain a comfortable temperature range for more than 800 seconds.