Evaluation of shape-stabilized phase-change materials using calcium carbonate-based starfish microporous materials for thermal energy storage

This study investigates the synergistic potential of shape-stabilized phase-change materials (PCMs) integrated with calcium carbonate-based starfish microporous materials for efficient thermal energy storage. By addressing challenges related to traditional PCMs, such as leakage and stability, this research aims to enhance thermal energy storage capabilities. Starfish and bio-based PCMs prepared from starfish were subjected to porosity, thermophysical, and chemical analyses. The porosity analysis revealed that the surface and skeleton of the starfish had sufficient porosities to contain liquid PCMs inside, and the bio-based PCM formed closed cells in the starfish, effectively blocking leakage to the outside. The maximum latent heat, which indicates the thermal energy storage capacity, was 57.66 J/g. This demonstrated thermal stability below 150 °C, making it suitable as a building material. The chemical analysis revealed that bio-based PCM was composed of carbon, oxygen, and calcium commonly found in sea creatures, and it was confirmed that there was no chemical change during phase stabilization, confirming that it was chemically stable. Therefore, the manufactured bio-based PCM has potential as an eco-friendly heat-storage material.