Three-dimensional network-based composite phase change materials: Construction, structure, performance and applications

There are some problems in the applications of phase change materials, such as liquid leakage during solid-liquid phase change, and low thermal conductivity during heat transfer process. Three-dimensional network (3DN) structural materials stood out among many encapsulation materials of composite phase change materials (CPCMs) due to the advantages of three-dimensional interoperability, high porosity and low density. In this paper, the characteristics, advantages and preparation methods of 3DN-CPCMs were reviewed. Then, the influencing factors on the thermal, photothermal conversion and mechanical properties of 3DN-CPCMs were summarized from three aspects: pore structure, surface properties and chemical composition. Finally, the applications of 3DN-CPCMs in various fields were introduced, and their current challenges and future development were also discussed. This paper systematically discussed and analyzed the inherent relationship among the composition, structure, properties and applications of 3DN-CPCMs, which was helpful for deeper understanding of the latest research progress in 3DN-CPCMs and reasonable design and controllable preparation of the high-performance CPCMs.