An ultrasonic-assisted direct impregnation method for preparation of diatomite-based phase change material nanocomposites

Diatomite is an important natural raw material and the nanotube structures of diatomite are important in the preparation of composites. The nanotube structure of diatomite protects the phase change material from their environment. This work aims to develop leakage- free, thermally stable natural diatomite/phase change material nanocomposites (NanoCPCMs) by the ultrasonicassisted direct impregnation method for thermal energy storage applications. This work uses diatomite and paraffin as the supporting and phase change materials, respectively. The diatomite- based form- stable nanoCPCMs were analyzed via scanning electron microscopy and differential scanning calorimetry. Paraffin leakage of nanoCPCMs was determined at 95 C by water bath for 45 minutes. At the end of test, thermal stability at 95 C evaluated with DSC analysis. The results show that the leakage- free NCPCMs were synthesized successfully for thermal energy storage applications.