In a significant stride towards sustainable construction and energy efficiency, researchers have developed innovative bio-based polyurethane panels incorporating phase change materials (PCMs). This breakthrough, led by Damiano Rossi from the University of Pisa and INSTM, offers a promising alternative to conventional, fossil-based materials, with potential applications in both construction and transportation sectors.
The study, published in *Materials Today Sustainability* (which translates to *Materials Today Sustainability* in English), details the creation of flexible polyurethane (PU) foams derived from waste cooking oil (WCO) and partially bio-based isocyanates. By integrating microencapsulated PCMs, the team achieved panels with impressive energy storage capacities, reaching up to 26.2 J/g at a maximum PCM content of 15 parts per hundred resin (phr).
“The uniform dispersion of PCMs not only enhanced the energy storage capacity but also improved the structural support and rigidity of the panels,” explained Rossi. This enhancement was evident in the increased panel density, which rose from 128 to 157 kg/m³, and the improved compression force deflection, reaching up to 234.8 kPa. The panels also demonstrated resilience to cyclic loading, with increased dynamic stress and stiffness due to the PCM integration.
One of the most compelling aspects of this research is its potential to support circular economy principles. By valorizing end-of-life WCO, the study offers a sustainable solution that aligns with growing environmental concerns and regulatory pressures. “This research is a step towards more sustainable construction materials that do not compromise on performance,” Rossi noted.
The panels also exhibited stable thermal properties, with a phase-change temperature of 36 ± 0.1 °C and minimal enthalpy hysteresis (±0.26 J/g). This stability, combined with the panels’ lightweight and insulating properties, makes them an attractive option for energy-efficient buildings and vehicles. Moreover, the fire performance of the panels remained unaffected, likely due to the balance between the flammable paraffinic core and the flame-retardant silica shell of the PCMs.
The implications for the energy sector are substantial. As buildings and transportation systems increasingly demand materials that can regulate thermal energy efficiently, these bio-based PU-PCM panels offer a viable, sustainable solution. They not only improve energy efficiency but also contribute to reducing the carbon footprint of construction and transportation industries.
This research could pave the way for future developments in sustainable materials, encouraging further innovation in the field. As the world continues to seek eco-friendly alternatives, the integration of PCMs into bio-based materials represents a significant advancement, offering both environmental and economic benefits.
With the publication of this study in *Materials Today Sustainability*, the scientific community and industry professionals now have a clearer path forward in developing and commercializing these advanced materials. The potential applications are vast, and the impact on the energy sector could be profound, driving the adoption of more sustainable and efficient technologies.