Characterization of shape-stabilized phase change material using beeswax and functionalized multi-walled carbon nanotubes

One of the promising solutions for energy management is thermal energy storage. Beeswax is type of wax from beehive which can also be performed as thermal storage with high latent heat but it has low thermal conductivity. On the other hand, multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) are known as an advanced nanoparticle which has high thermal conductivity. In this research, modification of Beeswax/Acid-treated CNTs (A-CNTs) composite was conducted in order to determine shifting on its structure and thermal performance. MWCNTs were functionalized with strong acidic mixture by ratio 3:1 of H₂SO₄ and HNO₃ becoming A-CNTs. Impregnation method was being used to shape the composite with mass ratio of 5% A-CNTs. Several tests were conducted, functional group formation was determined by Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) test and thermal performance was observed by Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) test, and thermal conductivity test. Test results show that modification of stable Beeswax/A-CNT composite was successfully formed and indicate that with addition of 5 wt.% A-CNTs, the latent heat of Beeswax decreases 25% and significantly escalate the Beeswax's thermal conductivity by up to 84%. It supports that Beeswax is a promising solution for energy management system near in the future that is available abundantly and affordably.