Silver dispersions in poly(ethylene glycol) as novel NePCMs for thermal energy storage

The storage of thermal energy (TES), for its use in periods when demand exceeds supply, is one of the current scientific challenges. In addition to correct possible mismatches between production and consumption, TES approaches allow improving the performance of energy systems or equipment, which may reduce the consumption and undesirable effects of fossil fuels. In this sense the use of phase change materials (PCMs) has emerged as an interesting alternative. However, the poor thermal properties and/or large sub-cooling of most PMCs still prevent the practical implementation of these materials. The dispersion of nano-additives with high thermal conductivities, usually known as nano-enhanced phase change materials (NePCMs), has been proposed as a promising solution to face these limitations. The main objective of this study is to evaluate the stability and determine the thermophysical profile of poly(ethylene glycol)-based dispersions of silver nanoparticles. In particular, we would focus on the analysis of the effect that the addition of small concentrations of silver nanoparticles, up to 1.14% in mass, has on the thermal conductivity of designed materials.