Research progress on preparation, characterization, and application of nanoparticle-based microencapsulated phase change materials

As an energy storage material, microencapsulated phase change materials (MPCMs) have become a research hotspot in recent years due to their unique thermophysical properties. However, this material usually has limitations in terms of its performance, such as low encapsulation efficiency, leakage during phase change, poor cycle stability, and high degree of supercooling. To solve these problems, nanoparticle as-modified material to improve the performance of MPCMs has attracted the attention of both domestic and overseas scholars. This paper aims to review the research progress of MPCMs modified by nanoparticle from three aspects: preparation, performance, and application. In this paper, the preparation method and principle of nanoparticles used for the modification of MPCMs are first introduced. Then, based on different properties (mechanical properties, thermal conductivity, thermal stability, and supercooling), the research works of nanoparticle-modified MPCMs in recent years are reviewed. Finally, the practical applications of nanocomposite MPCM in the field of slurry, building, asphalt pavement, and battery thermal management are reported.