Polymorphic Esters As Bio-Based PCMs

The choice of suitable phase change materials is of crucial importance to the development of efficient latent heat storage systems. Bio-based, long-chained fatty esters and triglycerides are reported to possess interesting melting points and high enthalpies of fusion, but their development has been halted so far by their tendency to give rise to different polymorphs under different thermal conditions. While polymorphism is a well-known phenomenon common to many application fields (e.g. pharmaceutical, food processing), little is known on the long-term control of polymorphic phases. In order to promote the usage of bio-based polymorphic esters, a deeper understanding of the factors influencing the polymorphism and ways to trigger only the desired crystalline phase are of critical importance. In the present study, recent advances on the characterization of Tristearin's (a natural triglyceride) polymorphic phases and the factors influencing it, such as heating rates and thermal history, are reported.

Automated summary

Choosing suitable phase change materials is crucial for the development of efficient latent heat storage systems. Bio-based fatty esters and triglycerides have interesting melting points and high enthalpies of fusion, but their tendency to generate different polymorphs under different thermal conditions has hindered their development. Understanding the factors influencing polymorphism and ways to trigger only the desired crystalline phase is critical for promoting the usage of bio-based polymorphic esters.