Sustainable carbonized biomass-stabilized phase change materials for thermal energy storage

Abstract

Phase change materials (PCMs) integrated with stabilizers from carbonized natural and artificial biomaterials present significant opportunities for thermal energy storage. Natural materials like wood-derived, cellulose-derived, and biofiber carbon reinforcements offer sustainable, cost-effective solutions with benefits such as high surface area, tailored porosity, and improved thermal conductivity. These reinforcements also support waste valorization and environmental sustainability. Artificial biomaterials, on the other hand, provide tunable properties and advanced functionalities. This review covers recent advancements in PCMs stabilized by both natural (including agricultural residues) and artificial biomaterials, highlighting their applications in building insulation, electronics cooling, and transportation temperature regulation. We conclude by giving insights, highlighting gaps, and future directions into the potential for these materials to create sustainable, efficient solutions across various sectors.