In a significant stride toward sustainable energy solutions, researchers have made notable advancements in bio-based phase change materials (PCMs) for thermal energy storage (TES), as outlined in a recent review published in the journal “Achievements in Engineering.” Led by Bhanu Teja Nalla from the Department of Mechanical Engineering at Aditya University in India, the study systematically examines progress from 2022 to 2025, highlighting the potential of renewable PCMs derived from fatty acids, plant oils, and biowaxes.
The review underscores substantial improvements in synthesis strategies and performance enhancement. Notably, the incorporation of nanofillers such as graphene nanoplatelets and boron nitride has boosted thermal conductivity by up to 400%. Advanced encapsulation techniques have also been developed, ensuring over 95% enthalpy retention across 1000 cycles. These innovations are not just technical feats but also offer significant environmental benefits. Life cycle assessments (LCAs) reveal that bio-based PCMs emit 40–60% lower CO₂-equivalent emissions compared to traditional paraffin-based PCMs.
“These advancements are pivotal for the energy sector, offering a sustainable alternative that doesn’t compromise on performance,” said Nalla. The study also presents compelling case studies demonstrating the real-world impact of these materials. For instance, energy savings of up to 25% have been achieved in HVAC-integrated building envelopes, peak temperature reductions of 10–15°C in battery thermal management systems, and prolonged heat retention of 4–5 hours in solar thermal systems.
Despite these promising developments, challenges remain. Issues such as oxidation stability, long-term durability, leakage mitigation, scalability, and cost competitiveness need to be addressed. The review distinguishes between incremental improvements and transformative innovations, contrasting bio-based PCMs with petrochemical alternatives. It also identifies hybrid TES systems as emerging solutions that could bridge current gaps.
The study provides a commercialization-focused roadmap, aligning challenges with industry initiatives and technology readiness levels. This roadmap offers short-, medium-, and long-term strategies to accelerate the transition of bio-PCMs from laboratory research to scalable, low-carbon applications. “Our goal is to provide an evidence-based synthesis that can guide stakeholders in making informed decisions,” Nalla added.
As the energy sector continues to evolve, the findings from this review could shape future developments in thermal energy storage. By addressing the identified challenges and leveraging the highlighted advancements, bio-based PCMs could become a cornerstone of sustainable energy solutions, driving innovation and reducing environmental impact. The journey from lab to market is complex, but the potential rewards are substantial, promising a greener and more efficient energy future.