Nanoparticle-Enhanced Phase Change Materials (NPCMs) in Solar Thermal Energy Systems: A Review on Synthesis, Performance, and Future Prospects

Wei Lu, Jay Wang (), Meng Wang, Jian Yan, Ding Mao and Eric Hu
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Wei Lu: School of Engineering, Computer & Mathematical Sciences, Auckland University of Technology (AUT), Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Jay Wang: School of Engineering, Computer & Mathematical Sciences, Auckland University of Technology (AUT), Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Meng Wang: Department of Energy and Power Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100190, China
Jian Yan: College of Mechanical Engineering, Hunan University of Science and Technology, Xiangtan 411201, China
Ding Mao: Department of Building Environment and Equipment, School of Civil Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei 230002, China
Eric Hu: School of Electrical and Mechanical Engineering, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia

Energies, 2025, vol. 18, issue 17, 1-45

Abstract: The environmental challenges posed by global warming have significantly increased the global pursuit of renewable and clean energy sources. Among these, solar energy stands out due to its abundance, renewability, low environmental impact, and favorable long-term economic viability. However, its intermittent nature and dependence on weather conditions hinder consistent and efficient utilization. To address these limitations, nanoparticle-enhanced phase change materials (NPCMs) have emerged as a promising solution for enhancing thermal energy storage in solar thermal systems. NPCMs incorporate superior-performance nanoparticles within traditional phase change material matrices, resulting in improved thermal conductivity, energy storage density, and phase change efficiency. This review systematically examines the recent advances in NPCMs for solar energy applications, covering their classification, structural characteristics, advantages, and limitations. It also explores in-depth analytical approaches, including mechanism-oriented analysis, simulation-based modelling, and algorithm-driven optimization, that explain the behavior of NPCMs at micro and macro scales. Furthermore, the techno-economic implications of NPCM integration are evaluated, with particular attention to cost-benefit analysis, policy incentives, and market growth potential, which collectively support broader adoption. Overall, the findings highlight NPCMs as a frontier in materials innovation and enabling technology for achieving low-carbon, environmentally responsible energy solutions, contributing significantly to global sustainable development goals.

Keywords: phase change material; solar energy; nanoparticle-enhanced; NPCM (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Q Q0 Q4 Q40 Q41 Q42 Q43 Q47 Q48 Q49 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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