Abstract:

A kind of microencapsulated phase change materials (PCMs) based on a paraffin core and inorganic silica shell was designed to enhance thermal conductivity and phase change performance. These silica microcapsules were synthesised by using tetraethoxysilane (TEOS) as an inorganic source through the sol-gel process. Scanning electronic microscopy images suggested that the silica microcapsules exhibited a spherical morphology with a welldefined core-shell microstructure. The particle size and distribution showed the microcapsules were uniform and dispersed evenly. It was confirmed by Fourier transform infrared spectra that the silica shell material was successfully fabricated onto the surface of the paraffin core. The DSC curve illustrated that the microcapsules with a silica shell had a higher melting temperature and enthalpy. The thermo-regulating properties of the coated fabric changed with the microcapsule weight added.