Systems, methods, and apparatus for temperature management

Abstract

Systems, methods, and apparatus for temperature management are disclosed. A temperature management system can include a multi-layer thermal barrier system. The thermal barrier system includes a layer of heat reflective material, a material having a low thermal conductivity layer, and a phase change material. The layers can be applied in fluid form.

Description

[0001] Related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 611,653, filed December 18, 2023, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 561,688, filed March 5, 2024, both entitled “Systems, Methods, and Apparatus for Temperature Management,” the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This document generally relates to systems, methods, and apparatus for temperature management. In particular, the disclosed embodiments relate to a thermal barrier system. Background Technology

[0004] Thermal barriers for roofs and attics include partial repairs, complete roof replacements, and blown-in insulation. These components can significantly improve a home's energy efficiency, indoor air quality, and overall livability. Summary of the Invention

[0005] According to some embodiments, a thermal barrier system has three layers. In some embodiments, the thermal barrier system includes a heat-reflective layer, a low thermal conductivity layer having a silicon-based aerogel, and a thermal energy storage layer having a phase change material. In some embodiments, each material is applied in fluid form.

[0006] In some embodiments, the heat-reflective layer is the top layer, the thermal energy storage layer is the bottom layer, and the low thermal conductivity layer is disposed between the heat-reflective layer and the thermal energy storage layer. The thermal energy storage layer may be applied to a substrate surface. The substrate may be the exterior surface of a building.

[0007] The heat-reflective layer may be configured to reflect at least 80% of infrared heat exposed to it. In some embodiments, the low thermal conductivity layer is configured to achieve an insulation value exceeding R-3. In some embodiments, the thickness of the low thermal conductivity layer is 2 mm. The thermal energy storage layer may have an energy storage capacity of 5 thermal units per square foot. In some embodiments, the thickness of the thermal energy storage layer is 1 mm.

[0008] In some embodiments, the thermal energy storage layer is the top layer, the low thermal conductivity layer is the bottom layer, and the heat reflective layer is disposed between the low thermal conductivity layer and the thermal energy storage layer.

[0009] In some embodiments, the low thermal conductivity layer is applied to the surface of a substrate. In some embodiments, the surface of the substrate is an interior surface of a building, and the top layer faces the interior of the building.

[0010] According to some embodiments, a method of applying a thermal barrier system to a building includes fluidly applying a phase change material to the outer surface of a building substrate to form a first layer of the thermal barrier system. The method may further include fluidly applying a material having low thermal conductivity onto the phase change material to form a second layer of the thermal barrier system. In some embodiments, the method includes fluidly applying a heat-reflective material onto a material having low thermal conductivity to form a third layer of the thermal barrier system. In some embodiments, fluid application refers to application by spraying. In some embodiments, fluid application refers to application using a roller coating application.

[0011] In some embodiments, a method of applying a thermal barrier system to a building includes fluidly applying a material having low thermal conductivity to a surface facing the interior of the building to form a first layer of the thermal barrier system. The method may further include fluidly applying a heat-reflective material onto the material having low thermal conductivity to form a second layer with low thermal conductivity. The method may further include fluidly applying a phase change material onto the heat-reflective material to form a third layer of the thermal barrier system. In some embodiments, fluid application refers to spraying. In some embodiments, fluid application refers to roller coating.

[0012] In some embodiments, the thermal barrier system includes a heat-reflective layer, a low thermal conductivity layer, and a thermal energy storage layer. In some embodiments, the heat-reflective layer includes one of a reflective pigment, alumina particles, and a glass-polymer hybrid metamaterial. In some embodiments, the thermal barrier system includes a weather barrier.

[0013] According to some embodiments, a thermal barrier system includes a membrane disposed between the heat-reflective layer, the low thermal conductivity layer, and the thermal energy storage layer. In some embodiments, the low thermal conductivity layer of the thermal barrier system comprises low thermal conductivity particles. In some embodiments, the low thermal conductivity particles comprise a silicone-based aerogel suspended in a resin. In some embodiments, the thermal energy storage layer comprises a phase change material. In some embodiments, the thermal energy storage layer or the low thermal conductivity layer comprises solid particles.

[0014] According to some embodiments, a method of applying a thermal barrier system includes applying a first layer to a substrate and applying a second layer to the first layer. In some embodiments, one of the first and second layers is a thermal energy storage layer, and the other of the first and second layers is a low thermal conductivity layer. In some embodiments, the first and second layers are different.

[0015] The foregoing and other aspects, features and advantages will become apparent from the detailed description, the accompanying drawings and the claims. Attached Figure Description

[0016] The embodiments will now be described in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein the same reference numerals denote the same elements, and:

[0017] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a thermal barrier system according to some embodiments is shown;

[0018] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of a thermal barrier system according to some embodiments is shown;

[0019] Figure 3 It shows Figure 2 Isometric view of the thermal barrier system;

[0020] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of a thermal barrier system according to some embodiments is shown;

[0021] Figure 5 A schematic diagram of a thermal barrier system according to some embodiments is shown;

[0022] Figure 6 A schematic diagram of a thermal barrier system according to some embodiments is shown;

[0023] Figure 7 A schematic diagram of a thermal barrier system according to some embodiments is shown;

[0024] Figure 8 A graph showing the temperature variation over time for a control and thermal barrier system according to some embodiments is shown;

[0025] Figure 9 A graph showing the temperature variation over time of a control and thermal barrier system according to some embodiments is shown;

[0026] Figure 10 A graph showing the temperature variation over time of a control and thermal barrier system according to some embodiments is shown; and

[0027] Figure 11 A graph showing the temperature variation over time for a control and thermal barrier system according to some embodiments is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0028] The detailed aspects and applications of this disclosure are described below in the accompanying drawings and detailed description of the technology. Unless otherwise specified, the words and phrases in the specification and claims are intended to have their common, conventional, and customary meanings to those skilled in the art.

[0029] In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth for purposes of explanation in order to provide a thorough understanding of various aspects of this disclosure. However, those skilled in the art will understand that embodiments of the techniques disclosed herein can be practiced without these specific details. It should be noted that the disclosed techniques can be applied to many different and alternative configurations, apparatuses, and techniques. The full scope of the techniques disclosed herein is not limited to the examples described below.

[0030] The singular forms “a,” “one,” and “the” include plural references unless the context clearly specifies otherwise. Thus, for example, a reference to “a step” includes a reference to one or more such steps.

[0031] The terms “exemplary,” “example,” or their various forms, as used herein, are meant to serve as examples, instances, or illustrations. Any aspect or design described herein as “exemplary” or “example” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other aspects or designs. Furthermore, examples are provided solely for clarity and understanding and are not intended to limit or constrain the disclosed subject matter or relevant parts of this disclosure in any way. It should be understood that numerous additional or alternative examples of varying scope may be presented, but they have been omitted for the sake of brevity.

[0032] When representing a range of numerical values, another embodiment includes from one specific numerical value and / or to another specific numerical value. Similarly, when a numerical value is expressed as an approximation using the preposition "about," it will be understood that the specific numerical value forms another embodiment. All ranges are inclusive and composable.

[0033] Throughout the description and claims of this specification, the words “comprising” and “including” and variations thereof (e.g., “comprising” and “including”) mean “including but not limited to” and are not intended to exclude other components.

[0034] Detailed embodiments of this disclosure are included herein as needed. It should be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely examples of the invention, which can be embodied in various forms. Therefore, the specific structural and functional details disclosed herein should not be construed as limiting, but merely as a basis for teaching those skilled in the art to adopt the invention. The following specific examples will enable a better understanding of this disclosure. However, they are provided as guidance only and do not imply any limitation.

[0035] This disclosure can be more readily understood by referring to the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and examples that form a part of this disclosure. It should be understood that this disclosure is not limited to the specific materials, apparatus, methods, applications, conditions, or parameters described and / or shown herein, and the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments by way of example only and is not intended to limit the claimed invention. The term "plural" as used herein means more than one.

[0036] Embodiments of this disclosure relate to systems, methods, and apparatus for temperature management. Specifically, the disclosed embodiments relate to thermal barrier systems. These thermal barrier systems can be used for indoor or outdoor applications.

[0037] According to some embodiments, the thermal barrier system is a multi-layered system. As discussed herein, the thermal barrier system is used to reduce the amount of heat transferred across a surface. For example, the thermal barrier system can be used to reduce the rate of heat transfer from a warm outdoor environment through an exterior wall to a cooler indoor environment. This may be the case with a thermal barrier system applied to the roof of a building.

[0038] The use of layering achieves better insulation. One benefit of this invention is that the thermal barrier system can be customized for the application. For example, when the thermal barrier system is used on a roof in a hot environment, it may include a layer that reflects radiant heat away from the roof, and a layer that stores heat so that heat does not penetrate to the roof surface (and from there into the living spaces of the building that the operator is trying to cool). The features of the thermal barrier system will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0039] Figure 1 A thermal barrier system 100 according to some embodiments is shown. The thermal barrier system 100 has three layers. A heat reflective layer 110 is disposed on alternating layers of a low thermal conductivity layer 120 and a thermal energy storage layer 130. Figure 1 Representative numbers of layers are shown, but more or fewer layers are also anticipated. In some embodiments, the thermal barrier system comprises two to forty layers (e.g., 2, 5, 6, 8, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35 layers). For example, in some embodiments, the thermal barrier system comprises three layers. In some embodiments, more than forty layers are used. Furthermore, these layers can be organized in various ways. For example, a heat-reflective layer 110 can be disposed on a low thermal conductivity layer 120, such as... Figure 1 As shown. Alternatively, the heat reflective layer 110 may be disposed on the thermal energy storage layer 130. In some embodiments, the heat reflective layer 110 is not present at all.

[0040] The heat-reflective layer 110 may include reflective pigments or other reflective materials to reduce and mitigate radiant heat that initially penetrates the outermost or exposed surface of the thermal barrier system 100. The heat-reflective layer 110 may use any material or combination of materials that contributes to heat reflection. For example, the heat-reflective layer may be a thin-film product made of a highly reflective, low-emissivity material, such as aluminum foil. The heat-reflective layer 110 may also include a film using IR-reflective pigments, alumina particles, and other spherical or non-spherical particles dispersed in a resin matrix. This film may also include ceramic particles, metal oxides, silicates, carbon-based materials, or polymer composites engineered to achieve equivalent functional properties, polymer microspheres, or other reflective or insulating particles. Particle additives may include materials having one or more of the following properties: high reflectivity to solar radiation, low thermal conductivity, high resistance to UV degradation, and mechanical stability under extreme weather conditions. The particles contained in the system can reflect infrared radiation, reduce heat transfer, and provide a barrier against environmental abrasion, wherein the particles are uniformly dispersed within the polymer matrix to enhance the thermal and weather resistance of the coating system. Particulate materials can provide reflective, insulating, and protective properties, thereby reducing the thermal load on the substrate and extending the service life of the coating system.

[0041] These components reflect light in the visible and infrared spectral bands. Other materials that reflect rather than absorb radiant heat can be used. In some embodiments, the heat-reflective layer 110 comprises a glass-polymer hybrid metamaterial. For example, glass microspheres may be sandwiched between a bottom silver film layer and a top polymer film layer. In some embodiments, the heat-reflective layer 110 comprises Mylar.

[0042] In some embodiments, the heat-reflective layer 110 may also be the top layer of the thermal barrier system 100. In some embodiments, the top layer includes additional functions. For example, when the thermal barrier system 100 is used as a coating for the exterior roof of a building, the top layer may also be a weather barrier. For example, one or more thin films may be used as the top layer to reduce air infiltration and increase water resistance. In some embodiments, the top layer may block water from penetrating to the layers below it, but may allow water to escape from the layers below it. This allows water vapor to be transported away from the thermal barrier system 100, which can improve adhesion, promote layer drying, and reduce the risk of mold growth on the surface below the thermal barrier system 100. The thermal barrier system 100 in some embodiments may also include additional weather barriers specifically designed to manage airflow and moisture. For example, in some embodiments, the weather barrier includes bituminous impregnated paper, microporous cross-lapped membranes, and membranes laminated to spunbond nonwoven materials. In some embodiments, the use of a multilayer structure can achieve optimal optical, thermal, air, moisture, and mechanical properties.

[0043] An example of an operational thermal barrier system 100 includes a layer comprising a base material and a particulate material selected to enhance reflectivity and weather resistance. The particulate material is selected from ceramics, metal oxides, or other low thermal conductivity materials. The particulate material may include alumina, titanium dioxide, or silicon dioxide.

[0044] Figure 2 A detailed cross-sectional schematic diagram of a thermal barrier system 100 according to some embodiments is shown. Figure 2 A low thermal conductivity layer 120 is shown sandwiching a thermal energy storage layer 130. Figure 2 In the embodiment shown, a low thermal conductivity layer 120 and a thermal energy storage layer 130 are disposed between the membrane 102.

[0045] The low thermal conductivity layer 120 uses highly porous or low thermal conductivity materials (such as aerogel) to provide thermal bridging. Figure 2 A low thermal conductivity layer 120 with low thermal conductivity particles 122 is shown. The low thermal conductivity particles 122 can be any number of materials with low thermal conductivity. For example, the low thermal conductivity particles 122 can comprise a silicon-based aerogel suspended in a resin. For example, an aerogel with a thermal conductivity λ < 0.08 W / mK can be used. Aerogels are known for their excellent thermal insulation properties, trapping a large amount of air within their structure. When properly dispersed in a resin, these nanoscale particles form a network of air pockets, effectively delaying heat transfer through the layer.

[0046] When the ambient temperature drops, the low thermal conductivity layer 120 allows the heat stored in the thermal energy storage layer 130 to radiate back into the environment and away from the object being cooled. For example, at night, the heat stored in the thermal energy storage layer 130 can radiate into the night sky. The low thermal conductivity layer 120 allows heat to be transferred from the thermal energy storage layer 130 to the environment.

[0047] For the low thermal conductivity layer 120, the layer composition may include a base material, an optional binder, and particulate additives engineered to enhance thermal insulation, solar reflectivity, durability, or environmental resistance. The particulate additives may include materials having one or more of the following properties: ultra-low thermal conductivity, high porosity, lightweight structure, high thermal stability, and excellent light scattering or reflection capabilities. The particulate additives may include, but are not limited to, aerogels, silicone-based materials, polymer foams, porous carbon structures, or composite materials engineered to achieve equivalent thermal or insulating properties. The particulate materials are configured to provide superior thermal insulation, reduce heat transfer, and improve the energy efficiency of the coating substrate, while maintaining a lightweight and durable structure. This layer comprises particles with high porosity and ultra-low density, designed to reduce heat transfer, increase infrared scattering and reflectivity for thermal management and to provide a thermal barrier, and provide hydrophobicity to increase moisture resistance, wherein the particles are uniformly dispersed in a polymer matrix to enhance thermal insulation and weather resistance.

[0048] For example, the low thermal conductivity layer may include one or more of the following: (i) a polymer substrate and particulate materials selected to enhance thermal insulation and environmental durability; and (ii) particulate materials including aerogels, silica aerogels, carbon aerogels, polymer-reinforced aerogels, porous silicates or other ultra-low density materials.

[0049] In some embodiments, the multilayer system further includes one or more layers of highly thermally conductive material (e.g., graphene, λ > 1000 W / mK), which may also be in alternating layers. The highly thermally conductive material can be used to guide heat flow. For example, a layer of highly thermally conductive material can be used to guide heat from an exhaust port to a wider surface. The highly thermally conductive material can also move heat to another structure, such as a heat sink. In some embodiments, the highly thermally conductive material can move heat to the thermal energy storage layer 130.

[0050] As described above, the thermal energy storage layer 130 stores energy to prevent it from reaching the insulated object or area. The thermal energy storage layer 130 can store energy in various ways. For example, the thermal energy storage layer 130 may comprise a single thermal energy storage material or a combination of thermal energy storage materials, such as phase change materials (PCMs) with different phase change temperatures. For example, it can use... The phase change material (PCT) can be selected based on the system application. For example, a building in Phoenix, Arizona, would require a different PCT than a jacket used in Antarctica. In some embodiments, a mixture of PCTs with different PCTs can be used in a single layer or across multiple layers. These layers can have various thicknesses. In different embodiments, the PCT of the PCT in the thermal energy storage layer can vary. The PCT can be selected to maximize thermal performance.

[0051] In some embodiments, the phase change material is a microencapsulated organic material. Microencapsulated organic materials can retain their latent heat storage during multiple thermal cycles and avoid susceptibility to supercooling. Incorporating a phase change material into a membrane requires consideration of factors such as the transition temperature and the capacity of each thermal energy storage layer 130. The optimal phase change transition temperature depends on the application and the expected temperature fluctuations the phase change material layer will encounter. The goal is to efficiently design the transition temperature so that the phase change material can actively charge and discharge, providing optimal heat flux control.

[0052] Figure 2A thermal energy storage layer 130 with phase change material 132 is shown. The combination of the low thermal conductivity layer 120 and the thermal energy storage layer 130 can be referred to as an engineered metamaterial (EMM). In some embodiments, the order and number of layers in the EMM can be designed for a specific application. In some embodiments, the low thermal conductivity layer and the thermal energy storage layer are composed of deposited particles. In some embodiments, each layer consists of 50-90% solid particles by volume. In some embodiments, the layer thickness depends on the particle size. In some embodiments, for example... Figure 2 In the illustrated embodiment, each layer may be separated by a membrane 102 (e.g., a thermoplastic membrane). The membrane 102 serves as a substrate on which particles are deposited. An adhesive 150 may be used to deposit the particles onto the membrane.

[0053] Membrane 102 can be any number of membranes configured to receive components of the thermal barrier system 100. In some embodiments, adhesive 150 is applied to membrane 102. In some embodiments, the substrate on which each layer is deposited (e.g., the membrane discussed above) comprises a plastic sheet, which may be a 0.3-0.5 mil plastic sheet. In some embodiments, recycled plastic (e.g., leftover plastic grocery bags) can be used to manufacture the substrate. In some embodiments, the substrate may have perforations (e.g., microperforations) disposed therein, or may be porous (e.g., to allow water vapor permeability).

[0054] Adhesive 150 can bond components of the low thermal conductivity layer 120 and the thermal energy storage layer 130 to the membrane 102. Adhesive 150 can be any number of adhesives. In some embodiments, a specialized spray adhesive (e.g., LOCTITE) can be used on each plastic layer to bond particles of alternating layers. In some embodiments, a non-flammable, low-toxicity, and sustainable spray adhesive is used.

[0055] Figure 3 An embodiment of a thermal barrier system 100 is shown. The thermal barrier system 100 shows a thermal energy storage layer 130 sandwiched between layers 120 with low thermal conductivity. This layering creates an EMM composite system. The smart weather barrier 101 may consist of a breathable / microporous polymer membrane that prevents air and moisture penetration but allows vapor transport.

[0056] As described above, the multilayer insulation system disclosed herein uses a high latent heat capacity ( PCM particles with 180 J / g and extremely low thermal conductivity ( Aerogel particles (0.012 W / mK) are located between the sheet-like layers to provide spacing between them, thus preventing the layers from contacting each other. In some embodiments, these particles, with a median particle size between 10 and 20 mm, act as micro-shields between the layers and thus serve as thermal bridges, even at low volumes, resulting in higher efficiency at a lower cost. By forcing heat transfer to occur at the particle-film interface, rather than relying on the random dispersion of these particles within the matrix (as is the case in conventional building products), EMMs can now be engineered for specific applications. The low thermal conductivity of the intralayer aerogel reduces the amount of conduction that may occur between the layers, while the high latent heat capacity of the PCM results in time-delayed heat transfer. This delayed heat transfer is unique to PCMs because they are able to store and release heat at specific PCT values.

[0057] Figure 4 and Figure 5 A low thermal conductivity layer 120 and a thermal energy storage layer 130 are shown according to some embodiments. As previously described, each layer may be defined by an upper film 102 and a lower film 102. An adhesive 150 may be applied to the films. Figure 4 As shown, low thermal conductivity particles 122 are bonded to the membrane 102 by adhesive 150. Figure 5 The phase change material 132 is shown to be bonded to the membrane 102 by an adhesive 150.

[0058] Figure 6 and Figure 7 A thermal barrier system 100 according to some embodiments is shown. Markings on each surface (curved arrows on the heat-reflective layer 110, straight arrows on the low thermal conductivity layer 120, and battery symbols on the thermal energy storage layer 130) are included for clarity. However, these markings do not necessarily indicate the direction of heat flow. For example, the heat-reflective layer 110 may be configured to reflect heat in either direction.

[0059] Figure 6 An exemplary thermal barrier system 100 for keeping heat away from surface 200 is shown. As shown, the thermal barrier system 100 includes a thermal energy storage layer 130 disposed on surface 200. A low thermal conductivity layer 120 is disposed on the thermal energy storage layer 130. Finally, a heat reflective layer 110 is disposed on the thermal energy storage layer 130. This layering can be useful for external roofs exposed to solar heat. In this embodiment, surface 200 may be the roof of a building or other external surface. Heat is reflected from the roof through the heat reflective layer 110 of the thermal barrier system 100. Unreflected heat passes through the low thermal conductivity layer 120 and is stored in the thermal energy storage layer 130. This minimizes the amount of heat reaching surface 200.

[0060] Figure 7An embodiment of this disclosure is shown for retaining heat within a structure. For example, this embodiment could be used in cold climates where retaining heat indoors improves energy efficiency and comfort. In this embodiment, surface 200 can be a ceiling, such as an attic ceiling. Figure 7 In the illustrated embodiment, heat from inside the structure is stored in the thermal energy storage layer 130. Heat not stored in the thermal energy storage layer 130 is reflected back to the thermal energy storage layer 130 by the heat reflective layer 110.

[0061] Figure 8 A time versus temperature comparison graph is shown. The TEMP axis shows the temperature of the region separated from the heat source by various substrates. The “substrate” temperature is the temperature of the region when only a substrate without the thermal barrier system 100 is used. As shown, heat diffuses in the region in a relatively linear manner, and the temperature rises rapidly. “HR” shows the same setup, except that the region is separated from the heat source by a substrate with the thermal barrier system 100. In the “HR” embodiment, the thermal barrier system 100 uses only the heat reflective layer 110. Figure 8 As shown, although the temperature increases, the rate of increase is lower than that when the thermal barrier system 100 with the heat reflective layer 110 is not present.

[0062] Similarly, “HR + LTC” shows the temperature of the region separated from the heat source by a substrate having a thermal barrier system 100 (which has a heat-reflective layer 110 and a low thermal conductivity layer 120). As shown, when the low thermal conductivity layer 120 is used in conjunction with the heat-reflective layer 110, the rate of heat transfer to this region is reduced. Finally, “HR + LTC + TES” shows the temperature of the region separated from the heat source by a substrate having a thermal barrier system 100 (which has a heat-reflective layer 110, a low thermal conductivity layer 120, and a thermal energy storage layer 130).

[0063] Figures 9 to 11 Various test data for the thermal barrier system 100 under different configurations are shown. Tests were conducted using a "hot chamber" experimental setup. The "hot chamber" operates by positioning a heating lamp above the barrier. The temperature on the other side of the barrier was then monitored. Figure 9Experimental results of "hot box" tests using three different barriers are shown. The first barrier substrate was 22-gauge steel (0.76 mm thick). The second barrier substrate was 22-gauge steel coated with a 6 mm low thermal conductivity layer 120. The third barrier substrate was 22-gauge steel coated with a 6 mm low thermal conductivity layer 120 and a 1 mm heat reflective layer 110. Notably, the steel sample heated up very quickly, reaching a peak temperature of 60 °C within approximately 10 minutes, while the heat acquisition rates of all other samples were much slower. It can be observed that the temperature distribution of the second sample (with the 6 mm low thermal conductivity layer 120) was significantly lower than that of the uncoated steel sample. Furthermore, adding a 1 mm heat reflective layer 110 on top of the 6 mm low thermal conductivity layer 120 reduced the temperature and decreased the heat transfer rate.

[0064] The tested formulation consisted of approximately 20% by volume filler, 50-60% by volume polymer resin, and the remainder composed of other pigments and additives. The heat-reflective layer 110 consisted of spherical alumina particles with high reflectivity in the infrared (IR) spectrum. The low thermal conductivity layer 120 consisted of silicon-based aerogel particles, exhibiting extremely low thermal conductivity in the range of 0.010 W / mK compared to conventional insulation materials such as glass fiber and rock wool. This is due to their highly porous network with a gel-like structure, which minimizes the amount of solid material through which heat can be conducted. The thermal energy storage layer 130 consisted of phase change materials designed to have a phase change transition temperature. These phase change materials act as a barrier to heat flow because they possess a high latent heat capacity in the range of 200 J / g to 300 J / g. In thin layers, these materials can result in a 15-20% reduction in peak temperature and allow peak temperatures to be offset for 30 minutes or longer, which translates into energy and cost savings.

[0065] In some embodiments, the layers of the thermal barrier system 100 are organized to limit or prevent layer delamination. This is especially important given the continuous temperature variations of the thermal barrier system 100. When arranged in a strategic layering order, these technologies work together to mitigate the rapid exchange of heat entering or escaping from a particular surface. When a combination of three different layers is added to the substrate, the temperature is significantly reduced. This advantage stems from the fact that each individual technology has inherent limitations. For example, the heat-reflective layer 110 may be susceptible to the buildup of dust and algae, impairing its reflectivity. Meanwhile, the layers designed for the thermal energy storage layer 130 may face challenges related to saturation caused by exposure to radiant heat. Similarly, the low thermal conductivity layer 120 may be prone to accelerated degradation when exposed to strong ultraviolet (UV) radiation.

[0066] Figure 10Results of another “hot box” experiment are shown. Each barrier sample was made of steel. Rigid polyisocyanurate insulation (commonly referred to as “poly-iso insulation”) was bonded to the steel using standard structural adhesive. The thickness of the polyisocyanurate insulation was either 0.5 inches (0.5”) or 1 inch (1”). The R-value of the polyisocyanurate insulation at a thickness of 0.5” was [value missing]. Furthermore, the R-value of polyisocyanurate insulation material at a thickness of 1” is… Additional samples were prepared by adding low thermal conductivity layers 120 of varying thicknesses to steel with polyisocyanurate. Test results for steels with various thermal barrier systems 100 are presented below. Figure 10 In the middle. For example Figure 10 As shown, the thicker the low thermal conductivity layer 120, the lower the heat transfer rate, and therefore the lower the temperature.

[0067] Figure 11 The results of another "hotbox" experiment are shown. The samples were again steel with polyisocyanurate. This time, each sample included a 4 mm low thermal conductivity layer 120. The second and third samples show the experimental temperature results when 1 mm and 2 mm heat storage layers 130 were added to the thermal barrier system 100, respectively. The experimental results indicate that the greater the thickness of the heat storage layer 130, the less heat is transferred through the sample.

[0068] Various methods can be used to apply the layers, including but not limited to chemical vapor deposition, physical deposition, layer-by-layer assembly, etc. In some embodiments, each layer is applied one at a time to the surface for which the system will provide a thermal barrier (e.g., a building roof). In some embodiments, the entire thermal barrier system is assembled layer by layer and then the entire system is applied at once to the surface for which the system will provide a thermal barrier (e.g., a building roof). In some embodiments, the layers discussed above are applied, contained in, or sandwiched between different materials (e.g., foil or adhesive paper). In some embodiments, each layer consists of 50-90% solid particles by volume. In some embodiments, the layer thickness depends on the particle size.

[0069] In some embodiments, the thermal barrier system as a whole can take many forms, including but not limited to tape, house covering film, sticker, board, panel, roll, sheet, coating, film, one or more applyable liquids, etc. In some embodiments, the thermal barrier system includes transparent aerogel particles. For example, the thermal barrier system can be used to adhere to existing windows to make them more energy-efficient. In some embodiments, the thermal barrier system includes an electrochromic layer within the system to color the windows and act as a privacy shading.

[0070] In some embodiments, the thermal barrier system includes a hybrid PCM-aerogel metamaterial (e.g., which can be used to enhance the thermal performance of buildings and other structures, such as the housing of switchgear boxes, fluid transport piping in large systems such as aircraft and power plants, and food storage containers). These materials (aerogel and PCM) can be arranged as layers, rather than being integrated as dispersed particles into commercial products (e.g., wall panels, insulation blankets / felts, and paints / coatings), thus providing an innovative and engineered hybrid PCM-aerogel metamaterial approach to implementing a whole-system design method. In some embodiments, each layer of PCM or aerogel is separated by a thin polymer layer. Each layer is essentially a reinforced void where heat transfer occurs through conduction at the particle-film interface between the layers. The low thermal conductivity of aerogel particles ( The 0.012 W / mK) reduces this heat transfer effect, and the high energy storage (TES) capacity of the PCM particles ( The concentration of 180 J / g induces a time-dependent heat transfer effect. In some embodiments, the combination of these effects in such engineered metamaterials can be designed and optimized for specific climate applications where enhancing thermal performance is important or critical.

[0071] In some embodiments, engineered metamaterials include thin-film technologies that utilize micron-scale metamaterials to replace existing thin films or insulation materials. The microstructure of the material itself (e.g., each individual layer) and the combination of layers (combined materials and systems) can be optimized to enhance thermal protection in a variety of applications. As an example, using engineered metamaterials to enhance the thermal properties of existing building materials provides an effective way to reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions associated with existing methods. Considering the number of buildings that can be retrofitted with engineered metamaterials, this represents an opportunity to significantly reduce U.S. energy consumption, energy-related imports, and energy-related emissions. As another example, in the utility sector, substations and switchgear enclosures containing thermally sensitive electronic equipment present significant thermal management challenges. Increased external temperatures can cause these electronic devices to malfunction, and a failure in a single switchgear enclosure can lead to a power outage for an entire community, while a failure in a single substation can cause power outages in several switchgear enclosures. Applying EMMs to the exterior of substations and switchgear can help reduce internal operating temperatures, which in turn can lead to improved reliability, resilience, and security of the U.S. energy infrastructure.

[0072] In some embodiments, hybrid PCM-aerogel metamaterial (EMM) solutions are directly integrated into new buildings as an easily implementable retrofit solution for residential and commercial buildings. At scale, EMM technology has the potential to directly reduce building energy consumption and carbon emissions. Furthermore, EMM radiation barriers can be applied directly to the exterior of utility infrastructure to reduce external temperature loads, thereby lowering internal operating temperatures. This can reduce the cost of heat-induced power outages and improve the resilience, reliability, and security of U.S. energy infrastructure. Traditional single-membrane products have been widely used throughout the building construction industry for decades due to their simple design and ease of use. However, the proposed EMM solutions address the need for more sustainable and energy-efficient products by providing adjustable temperature regulation capabilities from PCM, as well as performing typical functions such as reducing radiant heat and / or acting as weather barriers. In some embodiments, the EMM comprises an easily applied membrane. In some embodiments, these EMMs are manufactured using roll-to-roll manufacturing, which facilitates rapid commercialization and deployment onto building and other structural shells.

[0073] A low thermal conductivity layer composed of silicone-based aerogel achieves an insulation value exceeding R-3 in a 2 mm thick layer, while a heat storage PCM layer exhibits an energy storage capacity of 5 BTU per square foot in a 1 mm thick layer within the design temperature range. The reflective layer reflects over 90% of infrared heat and can be used for exterior roofs in warmer climates or interior loft applications in cooler climates. When combined in a suitable arrangement, these different technologies make this system a superior alternative to existing retrofit solutions. The various technologies embedded in the proposed multi-layer system allow the roof to maintain a high degree of thermal resilience even under surface contamination and indirect sunlight exposure.

[0074] As described above, the systems disclosed herein can be manufactured using roll-to-roll processing. Roll-to-roll (R2R) processing is a continuous manufacturing technique for producing large quantities of flexible materials. In some embodiments, the process involves feeding rolled material from one roll to another through a series of processing steps. This continuous material handling enables efficient, high-volume production. In the context of a heat shield, reflective or reflective coatings can be applied using a coating station. These coatings contribute to the thermal properties of the material. Thin films can be deposited onto the material using methods such as physical vapor deposition (PVD) or chemical vapor deposition (CVD). After coating, the material can pass through a drying chamber to remove solvents or moisture. In some embodiments, a curing process can be applied to ensure proper coating adhesion.

[0075] Heat shields (such as the thermal barrier systems discussed above) may comprise multiple layers. Roll-to-roll processing allows for the continuous lamination of the layers, resulting in a cohesive multilayer structure. In some embodiments, an automated system ensures precise alignment of the layers as they are laminated together. Once the multilayer structure is formed, a slitting machine can be used to cut the continuous material to the desired width. This is crucial for obtaining the final dimensions of the heat shield. In some embodiments, an automated cutting system helps achieve cutting precision, ensuring consistency in the final product.

[0076] Once the material has undergone all the necessary processing steps, it can be rolled up and packaged for storage or further transportation. Roll-to-roll processing offers advantages in terms of high throughput, cost-effectiveness, and applicability to flexible materials. It enables the continuous production of thermal insulation covers with consistent quality and can accommodate a variety of materials and coatings to meet specific thermal performance requirements. Automation in this process contributes to the efficiency and scalability of the manufacturing industry.

[0077] As mentioned above, thermal barrier systems can be used in a variety of other applications. Other non-limiting examples are provided below.

[0078] Examples of the use of thermal barrier systems include building surfaces (roofs or lofts for more energy-efficient and comfortable living spaces, roof membranes, structural insulation panels, etc.), automotive surfaces (e.g., engine components subjected to high temperatures, vehicle exteriors, etc.), clothing surfaces (e.g., industrial protective clothing, sportswear, etc.), food packaging surfaces, greenhouse surfaces, or surfaces in a variety of other applications. Examples also include batteries used in automobiles, aircraft, and spacecraft (e.g., lithium-ion batteries / solar and battery storage). Example applications include, but are not limited to, environments with extreme temperature variations (e.g., equipment exposed to fluctuating temperatures in industrial environments), cryogenic applications (e.g., storage and transport of liquefied gases or materials at extremely low temperatures), electronic systems (e.g., high-performance electronic devices, electronic components that generate large amounts of heat), aerospace, research, and laboratory equipment (e.g., where maintaining specific temperature conditions is critical for experiments or sensitive equipment), transport of temperature-sensitive goods, medical applications (e.g., for equipment or instruments requiring precise temperature control, medical imaging systems, cryopreservation units), and energy storage (e.g., High-capacity energy storage systems), automotive applications (e.g., engine components, electric vehicle batteries, exterior surfaces), high-performance building insulation, refrigeration and cold storage, solar energy systems, industrial processes, the oil and gas industry (e.g., insulation for pipelines, tanks or equipment), transportation of hazardous materials, advanced materials manufacturing, greenhouses and controlled agriculture, military and defense applications, and textiles and fabrics (e.g., cold-weather clothing, thermal blankets, sleeping bags, extreme sports clothing, spacesuits, medical devices, industrial protective clothing, transportation vehicles, insulated tents and shelters, thermal underwear, energy-efficient curtains and curtain covers, automotive interiors, outdoor recreation equipment, etc.).

[0079] In some embodiments, multilayer insulation (MLI) systems can be applied to textiles and fabrics, particularly in industries where thermal management and insulation are important or critical. Potential applications related to textiles and fabrics include: cold-weather clothing (e.g., incorporating MLI into winterwear, jackets, and coats to enhance insulation and keep individuals warm in extremely cold conditions); insulating blankets and sleeping bags (e.g., designing insulating blankets and sleeping bags with MLI to improve heat retention, making them more effective for outdoor activities, camping, and emergencies); extreme sportswear (e.g., developing sportswear for extreme conditions, such as mountaineering or Arctic expeditions, where maintaining body temperature is crucial); spacesuits (e.g., enhancing the insulation of spacesuits to protect astronauts from extreme temperatures during extravehicular activities or long-duration space missions); medical devices (e.g., incorporating MLI into medical textiles for temperature-sensitive applications, such as heating or cooling blankets in medical environments); industrial protective clothing (e.g., manufacturing high-performance protective clothing for workers in industries with extreme temperatures or heat hazards, providing insulation and flexibility); and transportation (e.g., integrating MLI into automotive applications). In textiles for aerospace applications, such as insulation for seats, interiors, or components exposed to varying temperatures; insulated tents and shelters (e.g., insulated tents and shelters designed for camping or emergency rescue situations, providing improved thermal comfort for occupants); thermal underwear (e.g., developing thermal underwear for everyday use or specific activities, providing enhanced insulation without increasing bulk); energy-efficient curtains and curtain covers (e.g., manufacturing curtains or curtain covers with MLI to improve thermal insulation in homes or commercial buildings, helping to regulate indoor temperatures); automotive interiors (e.g., applying MLI to automotive interiors, such as seats and headliners, to contribute to temperature control and comfort within vehicles); outdoor recreational equipment (e.g., integrating MLI into various outdoor gear, such as gloves, boots, or gear bags, to enhance insulation for adventurers and outdoor enthusiasts). Factors such as flexibility, comfort, and durability are considered when incorporating MLI into textiles.

[0080] Potential applications of MLI in high-performance building insulation include: passive house construction (e.g., MLI can be integrated into the architecture of passive houses, which aim for extremely low energy consumption. The high thermal resistance of MLI helps maintain comfortable indoor temperatures while minimizing reliance on active heating or cooling systems); Arctic or desert housing (e.g., in regions with extreme climates such as the Arctic or deserts, MLI can be used to provide insulation for residential and commercial buildings. Its ability to effectively insulate against extreme cold and heat makes it suitable for structures in challenging environments); green roof systems (e.g., green roofs that incorporate vegetation for insulation and energy efficiency can benefit from MLI as an additional layer of thermal protection. This enhances the overall insulation of the building and promotes sustainable design practices); historic building preservation (e.g., MLI can be used for the insulation of historic buildings where preserving the structural integrity is crucial. Its thin profile and flexibility will allow insulation to be provided without compromising the building's architectural character); and high-rise buildings in urban environments (e.g., high-rise buildings in urban environments often face challenges related to temperature regulation and energy efficiency. MLI can be incorporated into the building envelope to mitigate heat flow). MLI can be used to insulate data center facilities, helping to manage the heat generated and maintain optimal operating temperatures, thereby improving energy efficiency. This includes applications such as: energy conservation and energy recovery; energy-saving retrofits; temperature-sensitive facilities; sustainable and net-zero buildings; and holiday homes in extreme climates. For example, MLI can be integrated into the construction of sustainable and net-zero energy buildings to help minimize the energy required for heating and cooling. This aligns with the goal of reducing the environmental impact of buildings.Potential applications related to the use of MLI in military and defense environments include: satellite and spacecraft thermal insulation (e.g., MLI can be used to thermally insulate military satellites and spacecraft, protecting sensitive electronic components from extreme temperatures in orbit); aircraft components (e.g., MLI can be integrated into specific components of military aircraft, such as avionics or equipment mounted in the wings or fuselage, to protect them from extreme temperatures during flight); ground vehicles (e.g., military vehicles, including tanks and armored personnel carriers, can benefit from MLI thermal insulation to protect important or critical electronic equipment and devices from temperature variations in diverse operational environments); missile systems (e.g., MLI can be incorporated into missile systems to ensure that airborne electronics and guidance systems remain within optimal temperature ranges during storage, transport, and launch); and field equipment (e.g., portable military equipment, such as communication devices, sensors, and surveillance systems, can be thermally insulated with MLI to maintain functionality and...). Applications include: protection from extreme temperatures during field operations; aerospace and defense infrastructure (e.g., MLI can be used for insulation of critical or essential infrastructure in aerospace and defense facilities, ensuring that electronic systems, control rooms, and communications centers are protected from temperature fluctuations); military shelters and tents (e.g., MLI can be integrated into military shelters or tents to provide insulation for personnel and equipment, creating a more comfortable and controlled environment in diverse climatic conditions); submarine systems (e.g., MLI may find applications in submarine systems, insulating important or critical equipment from the temperature variations experienced in the underwater environment); unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) (e.g., UAVs used for military reconnaissance or surveillance can incorporate MLI to protect their electronic payloads from extreme temperatures during their long missions); and specialized equipment storage (e.g., MLI can be used for insulation of storage containers for sensitive and specialized military equipment, ensuring that items remain operational even during long-term storage).

[0081] Potential applications related to the use of MLI in electric vehicle (EV) batteries include: battery pack insulation (e.g., MLI can be integrated into the design of the battery pack to provide effective insulation, helping to maintain a consistent temperature within the battery pack. This helps improve battery performance, lifespan, and safety); thermal management systems (e.g., MLI can be part of a thermal management system to help regulate the temperature of individual battery cells. This is crucial for preventing overheating and ensuring optimal operating conditions, especially during charge and discharge cycles); fast charging stations (e.g., MLI can be incorporated into the insulation of fast charging stations to help maintain a stable temperature during fast charging. Effective thermal management is crucial for preventing battery degradation and improving charging efficiency); EV insulation blankets (e.g., MLI can be designed as insulation blankets or wraps specifically for EV batteries. These blankets can be applied under extreme temperature conditions to provide additional insulation and protect the battery from temperature-related stresses); and battery modules in electric aircraft (e.g., in electric aircraft, MLI can find applications in isolating battery modules. Ensuring a stable temperature during flight is essential for electric propulsion). System safety and efficiency are very important or critical; electric commercial vehicles (e.g., MLI can be used in battery systems for electric commercial vehicles, such as electric buses or delivery trucks. Maintaining optimal battery temperature is crucial for the reliable operation of these vehicles in frequent start-stop cycles); battery-electric marine propulsion (e.g., in electric marine propulsion systems, MLI can help with the thermal insulation of batteries used in electric boats and ships. This ensures reliable performance, especially in marine environments where temperature variations can be significant); electric off-road vehicles (e.g., MLI can be applied to electric off-road vehicles, including electric motorcycles, ATVs, or electric off-road trucks. These applications often encounter varying environmental conditions, and effective thermal management is crucial for battery efficiency); electric racing vehicles (e.g., MLI may find applications in electric racing vehicles, where batteries undergo rapid charge and discharge cycles and high-performance requirements. Maintaining optimal temperature conditions can improve the overall performance and lifespan of the battery); emergency response electric vehicles (e.g., electric vehicles used for emergency response applications, such as electric ambulances or fire trucks, can benefit from MLI to ensure that the battery system continues to operate under a variety of environmental conditions). Potential applications related to the use of MLI in solar energy applications include: solar water heaters (e.g., solar water heating systems use sunlight to heat water for residential or commercial purposes. MLI can enhance the insulation of the storage tank, minimize heat loss, and improve overall system efficiency); solar desalination (e.g., solar desalination processes use solar energy to convert seawater into freshwater. MLI can play a role in insulating components of these systems, helping to maintain optimal operating temperatures for improved efficiency); and solar cooking systems (e.g., solar cookers use sunlight to cook food).MLI can be integrated into designs to enhance insulation, improve heat retention, and enhance cooking performance; solar air conditioning (e.g., solar cooling systems use sunlight to power air conditioning units. MLI can help insulate components, reduce energy consumption, and improve the overall efficiency of the system); solar refrigeration (e.g., solar refrigeration systems used for cooling in remote areas can benefit from MLI to improve the insulation of refrigeration units and ensure effective temperature control); solar pumps (e.g., solar pumps used for agricultural or remote water access can incorporate MLI to enhance component insulation and ensure reliable operation under various environmental conditions); solar ventilation systems (e.g., solar ventilation systems use sunlight to power air circulation fans. MLI can be used to insulate components). Applications include: improving the overall efficiency of ventilation systems; solar lighting (e.g., solar lighting systems, including solar streetlights or garden lights, can benefit from MLI to enhance the insulation of energy storage components and optimize performance under various weather conditions); solar vehicles (e.g., solar electric vehicles or solar-assisted vehicles can utilize MLI to enhance the insulation of energy storage systems and improve the efficiency of solar energy conversion for propulsion); solar communication systems (e.g., in remote or off-grid areas, solar communication systems can integrate MLI to improve the insulation of components and ensure reliable operation under various environmental conditions); and solar water treatment (e.g., solar-driven water treatment systems can utilize MLI to enhance the insulation of components and maintain optimal temperatures for the water purification process).

[0082] Potential applications of MLI in refrigeration and cold storage include: refrigerated trucks and containers (e.g., MLI can be integrated into the insulation of refrigerated trucks and transport containers used to transport perishable goods. This will enhance thermal resistance and help maintain a stable temperature during transport); refrigeration unit insulation (e.g., within refrigeration units, MLI can be used to insulate important or critical components such as evaporators, condensers, and storage compartments. This application will help reduce heat transfer and improve overall energy efficiency); cold storage warehouses (e.g., cold storage facilities storing items requiring specific temperature conditions can benefit from MLI insulation. The material can be applied to walls, ceilings, and doors to minimize heat ingress and maintain a consistent cold storage environment); food processing equipment (e.g., in food processing facilities where precise temperature control is crucial, MLI can be used to insulate cold storage rooms, blast freezers, and other units involved in food preservation and processing); medical and pharmaceutical cold storage (e.g., MLI may be used in equipment used for storing vaccines, pharmaceuticals, and other items requiring strict temperature control). Applications include: refrigeration units for medical supplies (ensuring the integrity of temperature-sensitive drugs); dedicated cold storage rooms (e.g., for applications requiring extremely low temperatures, such as research laboratories or facilities handling cryopreservation, MLI can be applied to the insulation of dedicated cold storage rooms); refrigerated display cases (e.g., MLI can enhance the insulation of refrigerated display cases in supermarkets and retail environments, contributing to energy efficiency and temperature consistency for products such as fresh produce, dairy products, and meat); ice cream and frozen dessert manufacturing (e.g., MLI insulation can be incorporated into equipment used in the production of ice cream and frozen desserts, such as freezing tunnels and storage areas, ensuring optimal temperatures for product quality); breweries and beverage production (e.g., breweries and beverage production facilities can utilize MLI insulation for fermentation tanks, cold storage areas for ingredients, and other equipment requiring precise temperature control during brewing and fermentation); and seafood processing (e.g., seafood processing plants typically require strict temperature control for storing and processing seafood products, and they can benefit from MLI insulation in cold storage areas and processing equipment).

[0083] Potential applications related to the use of MLI in the oil and gas industry include: pipelines (e.g., MLI can be used for pipeline insulation, especially in regions with extreme temperatures. This insulation helps maintain the desired temperature of the transported fluid, preventing heat loss or freezing); storage tanks (e.g., MLI can be used to insulate tanks storing crude oil, refined petroleum products, or liquefied gases. This insulation will reduce heat transfer and minimize temperature fluctuations, preserving the quality and properties of the stored substance); offshore platforms (e.g., offshore platforms typically face harsh environmental conditions, including temperature variations. MLI can be used to insulate critical or essential equipment, structures, or pipelines on offshore platforms to ensure operational stability and prevent problems associated with extreme temperatures); LNG facilities (e.g., MLI can contribute to the insulation of liquefied natural gas (LNG) facilities, including storage tanks and transport containers. This application helps maintain the cryogenic temperatures required for LNG storage and transport); and downhole tools (e.g., some downhole tools used in oil and gas exploration and production may operate in extreme temperature environments. MLI can be incorporated into the design of these tools to provide effective insulation). MLI insulation can be used for various applications, including: insulation to ensure proper functioning; refinery equipment (e.g., various equipment in a refinery, such as heat exchangers, reactors, and distillation towers, can benefit from MLI insulation. This helps improve energy efficiency by minimizing heat loss and optimizing process temperatures); LNG liquefaction and regasification (e.g., MLI may be used in LNG liquefaction and regasification facilities to insulate equipment involved in these processes. Maintaining specific temperatures is important or critical for efficient LNG handling and processing); drilling equipment (e.g., drilling equipment used in oil and gas exploration, especially in extreme climates, can be insulated with MLI to ensure proper functioning and service life, even in extremely challenging temperature environments); oil and gas transportation (e.g., vehicles or containers used for oil and gas transportation can benefit from MLI insulation. This is particularly valuable for land transportation across climate-variable regions); and instrumentation and control systems (e.g., precision instruments and control systems sensitive to temperature changes can be insulated with MLI to ensure reliable performance under various operating conditions).

[0084] Potential applications related to the use of MLI in various industrial processes include: glass manufacturing (e.g., in the glass industry involving high-temperature processes, MLI can be used to insulate equipment such as furnaces and kilns. This insulation improves energy efficiency and maintains consistent temperatures in glass production); steel and metal production (e.g., industries involved in steel and metal production often utilize processes with extreme temperatures. MLI can insulate equipment such as crucibles, furnaces, or molds to optimize thermal management and reduce heat loss); semiconductor manufacturing (e.g., semiconductor manufacturing processes often require precise temperature control. MLI can be used to insulate equipment involved in wafer fabrication, ion implantation, and other semiconductor production stages); chemical processing (e.g., MLI may find applications in chemical processing facilities where maintaining specific temperature conditions is important or critical. Insulating reactors, distillation columns, or storage tanks improves process efficiency and safety); and plastic extrusion and molding (e.g., industries involved in plastic extrusion and molding can benefit from MLI insulation in equipment such as extruders and molds. This helps control temperature). MLI can be used to insulate equipment and improve the quality of molded products. Applications include: ceramics production (e.g., ceramic manufacturing involves high-temperature kilns and furnaces; MLI can be applied to insulate these kilns, reducing heat loss and improving energy efficiency in ceramic production processes); food processing (e.g., certain food processing operations, such as those involving heat treatment or drying, can benefit from MLI insulation. This may be suitable for ovens, drying chambers, or other equipment requiring precise temperature control); pharmaceutical manufacturing (e.g., in pharmaceutical manufacturing, processes such as crystallization or sterilization often require specific temperature conditions. MLI can be used to insulate equipment, ensuring consistent and controlled drug production temperatures); the textile industry (e.g., textile manufacturing processes involve various temperature-sensitive stages, such as dyeing and finishing; MLI can help improve energy efficiency by insulating the equipment used in these processes); and the paper and pulp industry (e.g., MLI may be applied in the paper and pulp industry to insulate components such as digesters and dryers, helping to optimize temperature conditions during pulp processing and paper production).

[0085] This disclosure, its aspects, and embodiments are not limited to the specific material types, components, methods, or other examples disclosed herein. Many additional material types, components, methods, and procedures known in the art are contemplated for use with the specific implementations of this disclosure. Therefore, for example, although specific implementations are disclosed, these implementations and implementation components may include any components, models, types, materials, versions, quantities, and / or likes known in the art to be consistent with the intended operation of such systems and implementation components.

[0086] It should be understood that the implementation of a thermal barrier system includes, but is not limited to, the specific components disclosed herein, as virtually any component consistent with the intended operation of various thermal barrier systems may be used. Therefore, for example, it should be understood that although the accompanying drawings and text illustrate and describe specific implementations of thermal barrier systems, any such implementation may include any shape, size, style, type, model, version, category, grade, measurement, concentration, material, weight, quantity, and / or similar elements consistent with the intended operation of a thermal barrier system.

[0087] The concepts disclosed herein are not limited to the specific thermal barrier system shown herein. For example, it is specifically envisioned that components included in a particular thermal barrier system may be formed from many different types of materials or combinations thereof that can be easily shaped and conform to the intended operation of the thermal barrier system. For example, components may be formed from: rubber (synthetic and / or natural) and / or similar materials; glass (such as glass fiber), carbon fiber, aramid fiber, any combination thereof and / or similar materials; elastomers and / or similar materials; polymers such as thermoplastics (such as ABS, fluoropolymers, polyacetals, polyamides, polycarbonates, polyethylene, polysulfones and / or similar materials), thermosetting plastics (such as epoxy resins, phenolic resins, polyimides, polyurethanes and / or similar materials), and / or similar materials; plastics and / or similar materials; composite materials and / or similar materials; metals, such as zinc, magnesium, titanium, copper, iron, steel, carbon steel, alloy steel, tool steel, stainless steel, spring steel, aluminum, and / or similar materials; and / or any combination thereof.

[0088] Furthermore, the thermal barrier system can be manufactured individually and then assembled together, or any or all components can be manufactured simultaneously and integrally connected. As understood by those skilled in the art, the individual or simultaneous manufacture of these components can involve 3D printing, extrusion, pultrusion, vacuum forming, injection molding, blow molding, resin transfer molding, casting, forging, cold rolling, milling, drilling, reaming, turning, grinding, stamping, cutting, bending, welding, soldering, hardening, riveting, punching, electroplating, and / or similar processes. If any component is manufactured individually, they can be coupled or removably coupled together in any way, such as by adhesives, welding, fasteners, any combination thereof, and / or similar means, for example, depending on (among other considerations) the specific material forming the component.

[0089] Where specific embodiments of a thermal barrier system are described above, it should be readily apparent that many modifications may be made without departing from its spirit, and that these embodiments may be applied to other disclosed or undisclosed embodiments. Therefore, the thermal barrier systems disclosed herein should be considered illustrative rather than restrictive in all respects.

Claims

1. A thermal barrier system, characterized in that, include: Heat reflective layer; A low thermal conductivity layer, the low thermal conductivity layer comprising a silicon-based aerogel; as well as A thermal energy storage layer comprising a phase change material. The material used for each layer is applied in fluid form.

2. The system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The heat-reflective layer is the top layer, the heat storage layer is the bottom layer, and the low thermal conductivity layer is disposed between the heat-reflective layer and the heat storage layer.

3. The system according to claim 1 or claim 2, characterized in that, The thermal energy storage layer is applied to the surface of the substrate.

4. The system according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that, The surface of the substrate is the exterior surface of the building.

5. The system according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, The heat reflective layer is configured to reflect at least 80% of the infrared heat exposed to it.

6. The system according to any one of claims 1-5, characterized in that, The low thermal conductivity layer is configured to achieve an insulation value exceeding R-3.

7. The system according to any one of claims 1-6, characterized in that, The thickness of the low thermal conductivity layer is 2 mm.

8. The system according to any one of claims 1-7, characterized in that, The thermal energy storage layer described therein exhibits an energy storage capacity of 5 British thermal units per square foot.

9. The system according to any one of claims 1-8, characterized in that, The thickness of the thermal energy storage layer is 1 mm.

10. The system according to any one of claims 1-9, characterized in that, The thermal energy storage layer is the top layer, the low thermal conductivity layer is the bottom layer, and the heat reflective layer is disposed between the low thermal conductivity layer and the thermal energy storage layer.

11. The system according to any one of claims 1-10, characterized in that, The low thermal conductivity layer is applied to the surface of the substrate.

12. The system according to any one of claims 1-11, characterized in that, The surface of the base is an interior surface of the building, and the top layer faces the interior of the building.

13. A method for applying a thermal barrier system to a building, characterized in that, The method includes: A phase change material is fluidly applied to the outer surface of the building's base to form the first layer of the thermal barrier system; A material with low thermal conductivity is fluidly applied to the phase change material to form a second layer of the thermal barrier system; and The heat-reflective material is fluidly applied to the material with low thermal conductivity to form the third layer of the thermal barrier system.

14. The method according to claim 13, characterized in that, Fluid application includes spraying.

15. The method according to any one of claims 13 and 14, characterized in that, Fluid application includes roller coating applications.

16. A method for applying a thermal barrier system to a building, characterized in that, The method includes: A material with low thermal conductivity is fluidly applied to a surface facing the interior of the building to form the first layer of the thermal barrier system; A heat-reflective material is fluidly applied to the material having low thermal conductivity to form a second layer of the thermal barrier system; and A phase change material fluid is applied to the heat reflective material to form the third layer of the thermal barrier system.

17. The method according to claim 16, characterized in that, Fluid application includes spraying.

18. The method according to claim 16 or claim 17, characterized in that, Fluid application includes roller coating applications.

19. A thermal barrier system, characterized in that, include: Heat reflective layer; Low thermal conductivity layer; as well as Thermal energy storage layer.

20. The thermal barrier system according to claim 19, characterized in that, The heat-reflective layer comprises one of a reflective pigment, alumina particles, and a glass-polymer hybrid metamaterial.

21. The thermal barrier system according to any one of claims 19-20, characterized in that, It also includes weather barriers.

22. The thermal barrier system according to any one of claims 19-21, characterized in that, It also includes a membrane disposed between the heat-reflective layer, the low thermal conductivity layer and the thermal energy storage layer.

23. The thermal barrier system according to any one of claims 19-22, characterized in that, The low thermal conductivity layer comprises low thermal conductivity particles.

24. The thermal barrier system according to any one of claims 19-23, characterized in that, The low thermal conductivity particles include silicone-based aerogels suspended in the resin.

25. The thermal barrier system according to any one of claims 19-24, characterized in that, The thermal energy storage layer contains a phase change material.

26. The thermal barrier system according to any one of claims 19-25, characterized in that, The thermal energy storage layer or the low thermal conductivity layer contains solid particles.

27. A method for applying a thermal barrier system, characterized in that, The method includes: Apply the first layer to the substrate; and Apply the second layer to the first layer. One of the first and second layers includes a thermal energy storage layer. Wherein, one of the first layer and the second layer includes a low thermal conductivity layer; and The first layer and the second layer are different.

Images