Method for producing a shape-stable phase change material composition

Abstract

In one aspect, a method of forming a shape-stable phase-change material is described. In some embodiments, such a method includes combining a first component and a second component to provide a crosslinked matrix, and injecting the crosslinked matrix into a reaction vessel under conditions such that the crosslinked matrix crosslinks to form the shape-stable phase-change material. In some cases, the conditions such that the crosslinked matrix crosslinks to form the shape-stable phase-change material include a time period between 1 second and 100 hours. In other such embodiments, the first component is flowable at temperatures above 0°C at 1 atmosphere pressure, and the second component is flowable at temperatures above 0°C at 1 atmosphere pressure. In some examples, the shape-stable phase-change material is shape-stable at temperatures above 0°C at 1 atmosphere pressure.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority pursuant to 35 U.S.C. § 119 to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 423,832, filed November 9, 2022, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. [Technical Field]

[0002] The present disclosure relates to methods of making thermal energy storage or phase change material (PCM) compositions. [Background technology]

[0003] Latent heat storage has become increasingly important in a wide range of technologies in recent years. Latent heat involves thermal energy released or absorbed during a change in the state of a material, without a substantial or no change in the material's temperature. The change in state can involve a phase change, such as a solid-liquid, solid-gas, liquid-gas, or solid-solid phase change, including a crystalline solid to an amorphous solid or other solid-solid phase change. Due to their latent heat storage properties, phase change materials (PCMs) have found applications in a wide range of thermal energy and temperature control technologies. However, the use of PCMs is sometimes limited by drawbacks associated with the thermal energy storage capacity and / or morphology of certain PCMs. For example, some materials undergo large volume changes and / or flow in the liquid state. Therefore, improved compositions for thermal energy storage and other applications are desirable. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] Improved methods for producing PCMs or PCM compositions are also desirable. Some existing methods can be slow or require frequent maintenance or repair of production equipment, including due to the nature of the PCM compositions or their components. Such manufacturing limitations can significantly hinder the widespread use of such PCM compositions. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] In one aspect, compositions and methods for making compositions for thermal energy storage are contemplated herein, which in some embodiments may offer one or more advantages over conventional compositions and methods. For example, in some embodiments, the compositions described herein exhibit high latent heat during solid-to-solid or shape-stable transitions, thereby providing compositions useful in a variety of applications where shape stability and / or elimination of flow in the "molten" phase are important. Such applications include thermal energy storage and temperature control applications.

[0006] For example, in some embodiments, the compositions described herein comprise 0.5-10% by weight polysaccharide or polysaccharide component and 88-99.5% by weight water, where the weight percentages are based on the total weight of the composition. Furthermore, in some examples, the compositions are form-stable for at least 24 hours or longer at 20°C and 1 atmosphere, as further described below. In other embodiments, the compositions have a dynamic viscosity of 300,000 cP or greater at 20°C and 1 atmosphere. Furthermore, in some implementations, the polysaccharide of the compositions described herein comprises cellulose, cellulose ether, starch, seaweed gum or hydrocolloid (e.g., alginate or alginic acid, agar, or carrageenan), chitosan, gum arabic, locust bean gum, guar gum, xanthan gum, or a combination of two or more of the foregoing. Furthermore, in some embodiments, any of the foregoing polysaccharides can be functionalized or chemically modified, such as by alkoxylation, alkylation, or other functionalization. The compositions described herein can also include one or more additional species or ingredients in addition to water and polysaccharides. For example, in some cases, the compositions described herein further include a pH adjuster, such as an inorganic or organic acid or base. In some cases, the pH adjuster lowers the pH of the composition, while in other cases, the pH adjuster raises the pH of the composition. Multiple pH adjusters can also be used. Furthermore, in some implementations, the compositions described herein further include an ionic liquid, a kinetic control agent, a filler (e.g., a solid filler), a flame retardant, a polymeric material (other than or in addition to polysaccharides), and / or an antimicrobial agent. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the compositions described herein further include at least one organic PCM.

[0007] Methods for producing such PCM compositions are also described herein. Such methods can, in some cases, be used to produce or prepare the compositions described or referenced above. In some embodiments, a method for forming a shape-stable PCM described herein includes mixing a first component and a second component to provide a crosslinked matrix. The method further includes injecting the crosslinked matrix into a reaction vessel under conditions under which the crosslinked matrix crosslinks to form a shape-stable phase-change material. Furthermore, in some cases, the conditions under which the crosslinked matrix crosslinks to form the shape-stable phase-change material include a time period between 1 second and 100 hours. In some embodiments, the crosslinked matrix crosslinks to form the shape-stable phase-change material for a time period between 1 second and 1 hour, between 1 second and 30 minutes, between 1 second and 10 minutes, or between 1 second and 5 minutes. Furthermore, in some implementations, the first component and / or the second component are individually flowable at temperatures above 0° C. at 1 atmosphere. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the shape-stable PCM formed by the method is shape-stable at temperatures above 0° C. at 1 atmosphere.

[0008] In some cases, combining the first and second components to provide a crosslinked matrix includes combining the first and second components in a specific ratio, e.g., a first to second ratio of about 70:30 to about 90:10 by volume. In some examples, combining the first and second components to provide a crosslinked matrix includes combining the first and second components in a first to second volume ratio of about 70:30 to about 85:15 or about 70:30 to about 80:20. In other embodiments, combining the first and second components to provide a crosslinked matrix includes combining the first and second components in a first to second volume ratio of about 75:25.

[0009] Furthermore, in some examples, mixing the first and second components to provide the crosslinked matrix includes adding or disposing the first component in a first fluid stream and adding or disposing the second component in a second fluid stream, where the first fluid stream is mixed with the second fluid stream. Furthermore, in some such implementations, mixing the first and second components to provide the crosslinked matrix includes directing the first and second fluid streams to intersect within a homogenization chamber. The homogenization chamber may be suspended above the reaction vessel, and injecting the crosslinked matrix into the reaction vessel includes gravity-feeding the crosslinked matrix from the homogenization chamber into the reaction vessel.

[0010] Furthermore, in some examples, the first fluid stream flows toward the homogenization chamber through a first nozzle, and the second fluid stream flows toward the homogenization chamber through a second nozzle. In some such embodiments, the first nozzle has a first diameter, and the second nozzle has a second diameter. Furthermore, in some implementations, the ratio of the first diameter to the second diameter corresponds to the volume ratio of the first component to the second component within 10%. In some embodiments, the ratio of the first diameter to the second diameter is about 70:30 to about 90:10, about 70:30 to about 80:20, or about 70:30 to 85:15. In some other examples, the ratio of the first diameter to the second diameter is about 75:25.

[0011] Furthermore, in some embodiments, the first component includes at least a first linker, and / or the second component includes at least a second linker. In some embodiments, the first linker component and / or the second linker component, when mixed with other species present in the first component and / or the second component, can crosslink to render the resulting PCM or composition shape-stable or substantially shape-stable under desired conditions. For example, in some cases, both the first linker component and the second linker component are present, and the two linker components can crosslink to form a shape-stable PCM or provide shape stability to the PCM. Furthermore, in some examples, the first linker component and the second linker component crosslink to form a shape-stable phase-change material at 0° C. and 1 atmosphere pressure for a period of at least 1 hour in the absence of the second component, and at 0° C. and 1 atmosphere pressure for a period of less than 1 hour, less than 30 minutes, less than 15 minutes, or less than 5 minutes in the presence of the second component. That is, in some cases, the rate of crosslinking between the first linker component and the second linker component differs depending on whether the second component is present or absent. In other embodiments, the first linker component and the second linker component crosslink to form a shape-stable phase-change material over a period of at least 3 hours at 0° C. and 1 atmosphere pressure in the absence of the second component, and over a period of less than 3 hours, less than 2 hours, less than 1 hour, less than 30 minutes, less than 15 minutes, or less than 5 minutes at 0° C. and 1 atmosphere pressure in the presence of the second component.

[0012] Furthermore, in some such embodiments, the first component and / or the second component comprises at least one catalyst operable to increase the rate of cross-linking between the first linker component and the second linker component (or to increase the rate of cross-linking of the first linker component with itself, or to increase the rate of cross-linking of the second linker component with itself). In other such embodiments, the first component and / or the second component comprises at least one pH adjuster. Furthermore, in some examples, the first component comprises a first catalyst and / or a first pH adjuster, and the second component comprises a second catalyst and / or a second pH adjuster.

[0013] Similarly, in some embodiments, the first component comprises a first ionic liquid, a first kinetics control agent, a first filler (e.g., a first solid filler), a first flame retardant, a first polymeric material (other than or in addition to a polysaccharide), a first antimicrobial, a first organic PCM, or a combination of two or more of the foregoing; and the second component comprises a second ionic liquid, a second kinetics control agent, a second filler (e.g., a second solid filler), a second flame retardant, a second polymeric material (other than or in addition to a polysaccharide), a second antimicrobial, a second organic PCM, or a combination of two or more of the foregoing.

[0014] These and other embodiments are described in greater detail in the description that follows. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0015] [Figure 1] Schematic diagram showing a first component flowing toward a second component being mixed in a homogenization chamber to provide a cross-linked matrix and feed downward into a reaction vessel, according to some embodiments described herein. [Figure 2] 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a first component flowing toward a second component being mixed in a homogenization chamber, the diameter of the first nozzle being larger than the diameter of the second nozzle, according to some embodiments described herein. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0016] The implementations and embodiments described herein can be more readily understood by reference to the following detailed description and examples. However, the elements, devices, and methods described herein are not limited to the specific implementations presented in the detailed description and examples. It should be recognized that these implementations are merely illustrative of the principles of the present disclosure. Many modifications and adaptations will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.

[0017] Furthermore, all ranges disclosed herein should be understood to encompass any and all subranges subsumed therein. For example, a range of "1.0 to 10.0" should be interpreted as including any and all subranges beginning with a minimum value of 1.0 or greater and ending with a maximum value of 10.0 or less, such as 1.0 to 5.3, or 4.7 to 10.0, or 3.6 to 7.9. Similarly, as should be clearly understood, a range of "1 to 10" should be interpreted as including any and all subranges beginning with a minimum value of 1 or greater and ending with a maximum value of 10 or less, such as 1 to 6, or 7 to 10, or 3.6 to 7.9.

[0018] All ranges disclosed herein should also be interpreted as including the endpoints of the range, unless otherwise specified. For example, a range of "between 5 and 10," "from 5 to 10," or "5-10" should generally be interpreted as including the endpoints of 5 and 10.

[0019] Furthermore, when the term "up to" is used in reference to an amount or quantity, it is understood that the amount is at least a detectable amount or quantity. For example, a substance present in an amount "up to" a particular amount can be present in an amount from a detectable amount up to and including the particular amount.

[0020] Additionally, in any disclosed embodiment, the terms "substantially," "approximately," and "about" can be substituted for "within [percentage]" of that specified, where the percentage can be 0.1, 1, 5, or 10 percent, unless otherwise intended by the use of such term in a given example.

[0021] The article "a" or "an" should also be understood to refer to "at least one" unless the context of the particular use requires otherwise.

[0022] In one aspect, methods of forming a shape-stable phase-change material are described herein. In some embodiments, such methods include combining a first component and a second component to provide a crosslinked matrix and injecting the crosslinked matrix into a reaction vessel under conditions such that the crosslinked matrix crosslinks to form a shape-stable phase-change material. Furthermore, as further described herein, in some cases, these conditions include a specific time period, a specific temperature, and / or a specific temperature. For example, in some examples, the conditions include a time period of 1 second to 100 hours, 1 second to 1 hour, 1 second to 30 minutes, 1 second to 10 minutes, or 1 second to 5 minutes. The time period may be within a subrange of the aforementioned range. In some cases, the conditions include a pressure of 0.9 to 1.1 atmospheres. Additionally, in some cases, the conditions include a temperature of 20°C to 80°C, 20°C to 70°C, 20°C to 60°C, 20°C to 50°C, 20°C to 40°C, 20°C to 35°C, 20°C to 30°C, 25°C to 70°C, 25°C to 60°C, 25°C to 50°C, 25°C to 40°C, or 25°C to 35°C.

[0023] Furthermore, in some examples, the first component and / or the second component are flowable at temperatures above 0°C at 1 atmosphere. In other embodiments, the first component and / or the second component are primarily aqueous (e.g., the formed shape-stable PCM contains at least 88% water). In some implementations, the first component and / or the second component are stable at temperatures above 0°C at 1 atmosphere. For example, the first component and / or the second component do not form a visually observable paste or gel over a particular period of time. Furthermore, in some cases, a stable component (e.g., a "stable" first component and / or a "stable" second component) exhibits less than a 10% change (e.g., increase) or less than a 5% change (e.g., increase) in dynamic viscosity at a given temperature over a given period of time (e.g., over 12 hours or 1 day at a temperature of 15-30°C). In some embodiments, the first component and / or the second component are stable (e.g., no change in dynamic viscosity, or a change of less than 10% or 5%, and / or no visually observable paste or gel formation) at temperatures above 0° C. (e.g., temperatures between 15 and 30° C.) at 1 atmosphere pressure for 1 week, 1 month, 2 months, 3 months, 4 months, 5 months, 6 months, 7 months, 8 months, 9 months, 10 months, 11 months, 1 year, 15 months, 18 months, 21 months, or 2 years. In some examples, both the first component and the second component are stable at temperatures above 0° C. at 1 atmosphere pressure for 1 week, 1 month, 2 months, 3 months, 4 months, 5 months, 6 months, 7 months, 8 months, 9 months, 10 months, 11 months, 1 year, 15 months, 18 months, 21 months, or 2 years.

[0024] Certain steps and features of methods according to the present disclosure will now be described in more detail. The methods described herein include mixing a first component and a second component to provide a crosslinked matrix. Any first and / or second component may be used in accordance with the present disclosure, as further described below. In some embodiments, the first component includes at least a first linker component or multiple linker components. In some examples, the first component includes a first linker component and a second linker component. In some such embodiments, the first and second linker components crosslink when mixed, rendering the shape of the resulting phase-change material or composition stable or substantially stable under desired conditions.

[0025] Additionally, in some embodiments, the compositions described herein exhibit high latent heat during the solid-to-solid or shape-stable transition, thereby providing compositions useful in a variety of applications where shape stability and / or elimination of flow in the "molten" phase are important. Such applications include thermal energy storage and temperature control applications.

[0026] Furthermore, in some cases, such compositions are self-supporting or shape-stable, including at ambient or other moderate temperatures and pressures. For example, in some embodiments, the compositions are shape-stable (including without support from side walls, containers, etc.) at temperatures above 0°C at 1 atmosphere, e.g., at one or more temperatures selected from Table 1 below. In other cases, the compositions are shape-stable at 20°C and 1 atmosphere. Furthermore, the relative humidity may be 50%. [Table 1]

[0027] Such shape-stable compositions, in some implementations, do not substantially deform or flow under these conditions for more than 1 hour, more than 2 hours, more than 5 hours, or more than 12 hours, hi some implementations, the compositions are solid or shape-stable and do not flow or deform under the above conditions for 1 to 24 hours, 1 to 12 hours, 2 to 18 hours, or 2 to 6 hours.

[0028] Furthermore, in some instances, the compositions produced by the methods described herein may have a degree of fluidity, such as that exhibited by a paste or gel. For example, in some instances, the compositions described herein have a dynamic viscosity of 300,000 cP or greater at 20°C and 1 atmosphere. The compositions produced by the methods described herein may also include a network, such as a cross-linked polysaccharide network or other network. Furthermore, in some instances, the compositions produced by the methods described herein include a polysaccharide network (or other network) that contains many hydrogen bonds with water. Furthermore, without intending to be bound by theory, water may form a continuous phase within the scaffolding formed by the polysaccharide (or other material).

[0029] The compositions described herein can have any pH consistent with the objectives of the present disclosure. For example, the compositions described herein can have a pH of about 2 to about 12, e.g., about 2 to about 7, about 7 to about 12, about 5 to about 7, about 3 to about 7, about 4 to about 7, about 5 to about 7, or about 6 to about 7. Furthermore, the pH of the compositions described herein can be about 7 to about 12, about 8 to about 12, about 8 to about 12, about 9 to about 12, about 10 to about 12, or about 11 to about 12. Furthermore, the compositions described herein can have a pH of about 7 to about 11, about 7 to about 10, about 7 to about 9, or about 7 to about 8. Furthermore, the compositions described herein can have a pH of about 5 to about 9, e.g., about 5 to about 8, about 6 to about 9, or about 6 to about 8, about 6 to about 7, or about 7 to about 8. Without intending to be bound by theory, the use of one or more pH adjusting agents allows the compositions described herein to be prepared and / or used over a variety of pH ranges.

[0030] Furthermore, the first and second components can be mixed in any ratio consistent with the objectives of the present disclosure. For example, in some embodiments, the ratio (by volume) of the first component to the second component in the crosslinked matrix is ​​about 50:50 to about 90:10, e.g., about 60:40 to about 90:10, about 70:30 to 90:10, or about 70:30 to 80:20. The ratio in the crosslinked matrix may be about 75:25 by volume. In some cases, mixing the first and second components to provide the crosslinked matrix includes mixing the first and second components in a volume ratio of about 70:30 to about 90:10, about 70:30 to about 85:15, about 70:30 to about 80:20, or about 75:25.

[0031] The step of mixing the first and second components to provide a first crosslinked matrix can be performed in any manner consistent with the objectives of the present disclosure. For example, in some embodiments, the step of mixing the first and second components to provide a crosslinked matrix includes adding or disposing the first component in a first fluid stream and adding or disposing the second component in a second fluid stream. Furthermore, in some cases, as shown in the non-limiting example of FIG. 1, the method (100) includes directing the first and second fluid streams (101) and (102) to intersect within a homogenization chamber (103) to provide a crosslinked matrix (104), and injecting the crosslinked matrix into a reaction vessel (105) includes gravity-feeding or otherwise allowing the crosslinked matrix to free-flow from the homogenization chamber into the reaction vessel (105), as indicated by the arrows in FIG. 1. In some such embodiments, the turbulence caused by flowing the streams toward each other causes mixing or homogenization without additional agitation. Furthermore, in some implementations, complete or substantially complete homogenization of the first and second components occurs in-line (e.g., within the homogenization chamber and before exiting the homogenization chamber). Such homogenization can occur within a short period of time (e.g., 10 seconds or less, 5 seconds or less, 3 seconds or less, or less than 1 second). Homogenizing the first and second components in the manner described herein can, in some cases, reduce or prevent clogging of manufacturing equipment that might otherwise occur due to in situ cross-linking of the components.

[0032] The step of combining the first and second components to provide a first crosslinked matrix can be carried out at any temperature consistent with the objectives of the present invention. In some examples, combining the first and second components is carried out at 1 atmosphere and at a temperature between 0°C and 50°C, 0°C and 40°C, 0°C and 30°C, 0°C and 20°C, 0°C and 10°C, 10°C and 50°C, 10°C and 40°C, 10°C and 30°C, 10°C and 20°C, 20°C and 50°C, 20°C and 40°C, 20°C and 30°C, 30°C and 50°C, 30°C and 40°C, or 40°C and 50°C.

[0033] Furthermore, in some embodiments, the step of directing and / or flowing the first and second components toward one another may be volumetrically controlled. Without intending to be bound by theory, it is believed that such volumetric control can maintain or substantially maintain the ratio of the first component to the second component upon entry into the homogenization chamber. In some embodiments, this volumetric control can be accomplished by flowing the first component through a first nozzle having a first nozzle diameter and the second component through a second nozzle having a second nozzle diameter (e.g., under the same applied force). The first and second nozzle diameters may be sized to have a specific ratio relative to one another by diameter. For example, in some embodiments, the ratio of the first diameter to the second diameter is about 50:50 to about 90:10, e.g., about 60:40 to about 90:10, about 70:30 to about 90:10, or about 70:30 to about 80:20. Additionally, in some embodiments, the ratio of the first diameter to the second diameter is about 75:25. In some cases, the ratio of the first diameter to the second diameter corresponds to the volume ratio of the first component to the second component within 10%.

[0034] A non-limiting exemplary embodiment (200) of such a method is shown in Figure 2. Referring to Figure 2, a first component (201) flows through a first nozzle (202) having a first nozzle diameter toward a homogenization chamber (203). A second component (204) flows through a second nozzle (205) having a second nozzle diameter toward the homogenization chamber (203). The diameter of the first nozzle is larger than the diameter of the second nozzle. The first and second components are mixed in the homogenization chamber to provide a crosslinked matrix (206). Injecting the crosslinked matrix into a reaction vessel (207) includes gravity-feeding or otherwise allowing the crosslinked matrix to free-flow from the homogenization chamber into the reaction vessel (207).

[0035] Any suitable homogenization chamber for this purpose can be used. For example, in some embodiments, the homogenization chamber can be a T-connector, allowing fluids to flow from opposite sides of the connector with a third opening for releasing the cross-linked matrix from the homogenization chamber. In such cases, a first fluid stream containing a first component can enter a first side of the T-connector, and a second fluid stream containing a second component can enter a second, opposite side of the T-connector. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the homogenization chamber is suspended above the reaction vessel. In such embodiments, injecting the cross-linked matrix into the reaction vessel includes gravity-feeding or otherwise allowing the cross-linked matrix to flow freely from the homogenization chamber into the reaction vessel.

[0036] The homogenization chamber may also be at any temperature consistent with the objectives of the present invention. In some embodiments, the homogenization chamber may be at 0°C to 50°C, 0°C to 40°C, 0°C to 30°C, 0°C to 20°C, 0°C to 10°C, 10°C to 50°C, 10°C to 40°C, 10°C to 30°C, 10°C to 20°C, 20°C to 50°C, 20°C to 40°C, 20°C to 30°C, 30°C to 50°C, 30°C to 40°C, or 40°C to 50°C at 1 atmosphere.

[0037] Referring again to the first and second components, in some embodiments described herein, the first component includes at least a first linker component and at least a second linker component that can be crosslinked to form a shape-stable phase-change material. Such linker components may also be referred to herein as "crosslinker components" or "crosslinkers." In some examples, as described further below, such crosslinking may include chemical crosslinking, achieved, for example, by the formation of one or more covalent bonds, one or more hydrogen bonds, or one or more other bonds with sufficient bond strength or energy to form a crosslinked network, which may be chemically and / or physically stable in an aqueous environment for at least 1 day, at least 3 days, at least 5 days, at least 7 days, at least 10 days, at least 1 month, at least 6 months, or at least 1 year. Such an aqueous environment may have a pH of 4-10 or 6-8, a temperature of -20°C to 50°C, and a pressure of 0.7-1.3 atmospheres or 0.3-1.1 atmospheres.

[0038] Further, in some examples, the first component includes at least a first linker component and at least a second linker component, which when combined or mixed with the second component of the methods described herein, crosslink to form a shape-stable phase-change material in a relatively short time, but crosslink for a relatively long time (or not at all) in the absence of the second component. For example, in some cases, the first linker component and the second linker component crosslink to form a shape-stable phase-change material at 0° C. and 1 atmosphere for at least 1 hour in the absence of the second component, and at 0° C. and 1 atmosphere for less than 1 hour, less than 30 minutes, less than 15 minutes, or less than 5 minutes in the presence of the second component. In some implementations, the first linker component and the second linker component crosslink to form a shape-stable phase-change material for at least 3 hours at 0°C and 1 atmosphere pressure in the absence of the second component, and for less than 3 hours, 2 hours, 1 hour, 30 minutes, 15 minutes, or 5 minutes at 0°C and 1 atmosphere pressure in the presence of the second component. In some examples, the second component includes at least one catalyst operable to increase the rate of crosslinking between the first linker component and the second linker component. Any catalyst consistent with the objectives of the present disclosure can be used. For example, in some cases, the catalyst includes a metal or metal complex or metal compound, such as a transition metal or transition metal complex or compound, an enzyme, a non-enzymatic organic catalyst, a Lewis acid, a Lewis base, a Bronsted-Lowry acid, or a Bronsted-Lowry base. Additionally, the catalysts described herein may be true catalysts in the sense that the catalyst itself is not consumed as a reagent (e.g., stoichiometrically), or the catalyst may be a reactant that is itself consumed and not necessarily regenerated by the crosslinking reaction or in a reaction step prior to the crosslinking reaction.

[0039] The linker component described herein, in some embodiments, can bond or form a network with one or more other components used to prepare the compositions described herein. For example, in some cases, the linker component is chemically bonded to another component of the composition, such as a polysaccharide described herein, which may be described herein as a "linking component." The "linking component" may itself be a linker component described herein, which is crosslinked to itself or to a different linker component. For example, as described elsewhere herein, a first linker component can crosslink with a second linker component to form a network or form a shape-stable phase-change material.

[0040] Further, in some embodiments, linker components chemically bonded to such linking moieties provide non-polymeric materials. In some embodiments, linker components chemically bonded to linking moieties provide oligomeric materials. In some embodiments, for example, the linking moiety is monofunctional. A monofunctional linking moiety can, in some embodiments, be chemically bonded to a linker moiety via a single functional group, such as a carboxyl or hydroxyl group. Further, in some embodiments, the linker moiety is polyfunctional. A polyfunctional crosslinker can, in some embodiments, chemically bond to multiple linking moieties, including multiple monofunctional linking moieties. For example, in some embodiments, a bifunctional crosslinker (B) can be chemically bonded to two monofunctional linking moieties (A) to provide an ABA trimer. In other embodiments, a bifunctional crosslinker can be chemically bonded to one monofunctional linking moiety to provide an AB dimer.

[0041] Furthermore, the crosslinking agent can be chemically bonded to the linking component via any chemical bond not inconsistent with the objectives of the present invention. In some embodiments, for example, the linker component is chemically bonded to the linking component via a covalent bond. In other embodiments, the crosslinking agent is chemically bonded to the linking component via an ionic or electrostatic bond. In some embodiments, the crosslinking agent is chemically bonded to the linking component via a hydrogen bond. In some embodiments, the crosslinking agent is chemically bonded to the linking component via a urethane bond. In other embodiments, the crosslinking agent is chemically bonded to the linking component via an amide bond. In some embodiments, the crosslinking agent is chemically bonded to the linking component via an ester bond.

[0042] Furthermore, the crosslinking agents described herein can include any chemical species consistent with the objectives of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, for example, the crosslinking agent includes a functional group capable of forming a covalent bond with a functional group of a linking component described herein, such as a carboxyl group or a hydroxyl group. In some embodiments, the crosslinking agent includes a polyol. In some embodiments, the crosslinking agent includes a saccharide, including a monosaccharide, a disaccharide, an oligosaccharide, or a polysaccharide. In some embodiments, the polysaccharide of the compositions described herein includes cellulose, a cellulose derivative, a cellulose ether, a starch, a seaweed gum or a seaweed hydrocolloid (such as alginate or alginic acid, agar, or carrageenan), chitosan, gum arabic, locust bean gum, guar gum, xanthan gum, a galactomannan polysaccharide, or a combination of two or more of the foregoing. Furthermore, in some embodiments, any of the foregoing polysaccharides can be functionalized or chemically modified, such as by alkoxylation, alkylation, or other functionalization, to provide, for example, a cellulose ether. In some cases, the polysaccharide includes hydroxyethyl starch, a hydroxyethyl polysaccharide, or a hydroxyethyl cellulose. In some examples, the polysaccharide comprises potato starch, corn starch, rice starch, or wheat starch.

[0043] In certain implementations, instead of or in addition to the polysaccharides described herein, the composition (or the first and / or second component) can include a carboxymethyl ether of one or more polysaccharides. For example, in some embodiments, the composition (or the first and / or second component) described herein includes a carboxymethyl ether formed from or derived from one or more of the following: cellulose, chitin, chitosan, curdlan, dextran, pullulan, schleroglucan, schizophyllan, starch, amylase, amylopectin, seaweed gum or hydrocolloid (such as alginate or alginic acid, agar, or carrageenan), gum arabic, locust bean gum, guar gum, or xanthan gum, or a combination of two or more of the foregoing. The carboxymethyl ether can also be formed from natural, synthetic, or functionalized polysaccharides. The compositions described herein (or the first component and / or the second component) may include a combination of carboxymethyl ethers, each carboxymethyl ether derived from a distinct member of the aforementioned group of polysaccharides.

[0044] Additionally, the compositions described herein (or the first and / or second components) may include one or more salts of carboxymethyl ether. For example, in some embodiments, the compositions described herein (or the first and / or second components) include sodium starch glycolate.

[0045] The polysaccharides (or related species) described herein can have any molecular weight consistent with the objectives of the present disclosure. For example, in some embodiments, the polysaccharides have a weight-average molecular weight of about 2,000 to about 3,000,000, about 20,000 to 2,500,000, or about 100,000 to about 2,000,000. Furthermore, in some examples, the polysaccharides are present in the compositions or crosslinked matrices described herein in an amount of about 0.5 to 7% by weight or about 1 to 5% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition or crosslinked matrix. Furthermore, in some cases, the compositions or crosslinked matrices containing the polysaccharides are not polysaccharide solutions or colloids. Furthermore, in some such embodiments, water is present in the compositions or crosslinked matrices in an amount of 90 to 99% by weight or 95 to 99.5% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition or crosslinked matrix.

[0046] Additionally, in some embodiments, the cross-linking agent comprises a sugar alcohol such as glycol, glycerol, erythritol, threitol, arabitol, xylitol, ribitol, mannitol, sorbitol, dulcitol, iditol, isomalt, maltitol, or lactitol.

[0047] In other embodiments, the crosslinker or linker component comprises an isocyanate. In some embodiments, the linker component comprises a diisocyanate, such as methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (MDI), toluene diisocyanate (TDI), naphthalene diisocyanate (NDI), isophorone diisocyanate (IPDI), and / or hexamethylene diisocyanate (HDI). Non-limiting examples of diisocyanates suitable for use in some embodiments described herein include the following: Lupranate® LP27, LP30, LP30D, M, MI, MS, M10, M20, M20S, M20FB, M20HB, M20SB, M70L, MM103, MP102, MS, R2500, R2500U, T80-Type 1, T80-Type 2, TF2115, 78, 81, 219, 223, 227, 230, 234, 245, 259, 265, 266, 273, 275, 278, 280, 281, 5010, 5020, 5030, 5040, 5050, 5060, 5070, 5080, 5090, 5100, 5110, 5140, 5143, and 8020, all of which are commercially available from BASF. Other non-limiting examples of diisocyanates suitable for use in some embodiments described herein include: Suprasec® 2004, 2029, 5025, 7316, 7507, 9150, 9561, 9577, 9582, 9600, 9603, 9608, 9612, 9610, 9612, 9615, and 9616, and Rubinate® 1209, 1234, 1670, 1790, 1920, 9040, 9234, 9236, 9271, 9272, 9465, and 9511, all commercially available from Huntsman. Other major manufacturers of diisocyanates include Bayer, BorsodChem, Dow, Mitsui, Nippon Polyurethane Industry, and Yantai Wanhua.

[0048] Additionally, in some embodiments, the compositions described herein comprise multiple crosslinking agents or linker components. Any combination of crosslinking agents not inconsistent with the objectives of the present invention may be used.

[0049] Furthermore, the first and / or second linker component or crosslinker agent described herein can be present in any amount in a composition or component (e.g., in a first or second component) consistent with the objectives of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, for example, a component comprises less than about 10 weight percent crosslinker agent, based on the total weight of the component. In some embodiments, a component (e.g., a first or second component described herein) comprises less than about 5 weight percent, less than about 3 weight percent, less than about 2 weight percent, or less than about 1 weight percent crosslinker agent or linker component. In some embodiments, a component (e.g., a first or second component described herein) comprises between about 1 weight percent and about 5 weight percent crosslinker agent, or between about 1 weight percent and about 8 weight percent crosslinker agent.

[0050] Additionally, in some implementations, the compositions (or the first and / or second components) described herein further comprise an ionic liquid. Any ionic liquid not inconsistent with the objectives of the present disclosure can be used. For example, in some cases, the ionic liquid is pyridinium-based. In other examples, the ionic liquid comprises a sugar or sugar alcohol. Non-limiting examples of ionic liquids that can be used in some embodiments described herein include 1-allyl-3-methylimidazolium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide, 1-allyl-3-methylimidazolium bromide, 1-allyl-3-methylimidazolium dicyanamide, 1-allyl-3-methylimidazolium iodide, 1-benzyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride, 1-benzyl-3-methylimidazolium Hexafluorophosphate, 1-benzyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate, 1,3-bis(3-cyanopropyl)imidazolium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide, 1,3-bis(3-cyanopropyl)imidazolium chloride, 1-butyl-2,3-dimethylimidazolium hexafluorophosphate, 1-butyl-2,3-dimethylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate, 4-(3-butyl-1-imidazolio)-1-butane Sulfonate, 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium acetate, 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride, 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium dibutyl phosphate, 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium hexafluorophosphate, 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium nitrate, 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium octyl sulfate, 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrachloroaluminate, 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium Midazolium tetrafluoroborate, 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium thiocyanate, 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium tosylate, 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium trifluoroacetate, 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium trifluoromethanesulfonate, 1-(3-cyanopropyl)-3-methylimidazolium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)amide, 1-decyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate, 1,3-Diethoxyimidazolium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide, 1,3-diethoxyimidazolium hexafluorophosphate, 1,3-dihydroxyimidazolium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide, 1,3-dihydroxy-2-methylimidazolium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide, 1,3-dimethoxy-2-methylimidazolium hexafluorophosphate, 1-dodecyl-3-methylimidazolium iodide, 1-ethyl-2,3-dimethylimidazolium 1-Hexyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate, 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium hexafluorophosphate, 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium L-(+)-lactate, 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium 1,1,2,2-tetrafluoroethanesulfonate, 1-hexyl-3-methylimidazolium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide, 1-hexyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride, 1-hexyl-3-methylimidazolium hexafluorophosphate, 1-methylimidazolium chloride 1-Methyl-3-octylimidazolium chloride, 1-Methyl-3-octylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate, 1-Methyl-3-propylimidazolium iodide, 1-Methyl-3-(3,3,4,4,5,5,6,6,7,7,8,8,8-tridecafluorooctyl)imidazolium hexafluorophosphate, 1,2,3-trimethylimidazolium methylsulfate, 1-Butyl-4-methylpyridinium chloride, 1-Butyl-4-methylpyridinium hexafluorophosphate Choline acetate, 1-butylpyridinium bromide, 1-(3-cyanopropyl)pyridinium chloride, 1-ethylpyridinium tetrafluoroborate, 3-methyl-l-propylpyridinium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide, choline acetate, glycol-choline, glycerol-choline, erythritol-choline, threitol-choline, arabitol-choline, xylitol-choline, ribitol-choline, mannitol-choline, sorbitol-choline, dulcitol-choline, iditol-cholineIsomalt-choline, maltitol-choline, or lactitol-choline, or a combination of two or more thereof. Additionally, in some embodiments, the one or more pH adjusters may include an ionic liquid.

[0051] Ionic liquids can be present in the first and / or second components described herein in any amount consistent with the technical objectives of the present disclosure. In some cases, for example, the first and / or second components each contain up to 10% by weight, up to 7% by weight, up to 5% by weight, up to 2% by weight, or up to 1% by weight of ionic liquid, based on the total weight of the first and / or second components. In some embodiments, the first and / or second components each contain 0.5-10% by weight, 1-10% by weight, 1-7% by weight, 1-5% by weight, 2-10% by weight, 2-7% by weight, 2-5% by weight, 3-10% by weight, 3-7% by weight, 3-5% by weight, 5-10% by weight, or 5-7% by weight of ionic liquid, based on the total weight of the first and / or second components.

[0052] Additionally, in some embodiments, the compositions described herein (or the first and / or second components) further comprise a kinetic control agent. The use of a kinetic control agent can, in some cases, increase or decrease the rate of formation of the shape-stable PCM described herein. Any kinetic control agent not inconsistent with the technical objectives of the present disclosure can be used. In some cases, the kinetic control agent comprises a zirconium compound, complex, or salt. For example, in some examples, the kinetic control agent comprises a zirconium halide or related species, such as zirconium oxychloride, zirconium hydroxychloride, zirconium(IV) chloride, zirconium bromide, or a combination of two or more of the foregoing. In some embodiments, the kinetic control agent comprises a zirconium salt of a mineral acid, such as zirconium sulfate, basic zirconium sulfate, zirconium oxynitrate, zirconium oxyacetate, zirconium oxycarbonate, or a combination of two or more of the foregoing. In some examples, the kinetic control agent comprises a zirconium salt of an organic acid, such as zirconium formate, zirconium acetate, zirconium propionate, zirconium caprylate, zirconium stearate, zirconium lactate, zirconium nitrate, zirconium carbonate, zirconium octoate, zirconium citrate, zirconium phosphate, or a combination of two or more of the foregoing. In yet other embodiments, the kinetic control agent described herein comprises a complex, such as ammonium zirconium carbonate, ammonium zirconium phosphate, ammonium zirconium sulfate, ammonium zirconium oxalate, ammonium zirconium acetate, ammonium zirconium citrate, ammonium zirconium lactate, potassium zirconium carbonate, sodium zirconium sulfate, sodium zirconium oxalate, sodium zirconium citrate, or a combination of two or more of the foregoing.

[0053] Furthermore, in some cases, the kinetic control agents described herein include boric acid or borate salts. For example, in some implementations, the kinetic control agents described herein include boric acid, calcium metaborate, kodalk or sodium metaborate, potassium metaborate, potassium tetraborate, sodium tetraborate, sodium metaborate tetrahydrate, sodium metaborate decahydrate, or a combination of two or more of the foregoing. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the kinetic control agent includes a borate ore or mineral (e.g., in an alkaline solution). In some such examples, the kinetic control agent comprises ulexite, graphite, nobleite, gowerite, hydroborocalcite, colemanite, meyerhoffite, inyoite, pandermite, terzsite, ginorite, pinotite, paternoite, kurnakovite, indelite, preobazhenskite, hydroboracite, inderborite, heintzite, vealchite, or a combination of two or more of the foregoing.

[0054] When used, the kinetic control agent can be present in any amount in the first component and / or second component described herein that is consistent with the technical objectives of the present disclosure. In some cases, for example, the first component and / or second component contain up to 10% by weight, up to 7% by weight, up to 5% by weight, up to 2% by weight, or up to 1% by weight of the kinetic control agent, based on the total weight of the first component and / or second component, respectively. In some embodiments, the first component and / or second component contain 0.5-10% by weight, 1-10% by weight, 1-7% by weight, 1-5% by weight, 2-10% by weight, 2-7% by weight, 2-5% by weight, 3-10% by weight, 3-7% by weight, 3-5% by weight, 5-10% by weight, or 5-7% by weight of the kinetic control agent, based on the total weight of the first component and / or second component, respectively.

[0055] Furthermore, in some implementations, the compositions described herein (or the first and / or second components) further comprise a filler (e.g., a solid filler). Any filler not inconsistent with the technical objectives of the present disclosure can be used. In some embodiments, for example, the filler comprises an inorganic material, such as an inorganic solid. In some such cases, the filler comprises SiO2, ZrO2, or TiO2. In some cases, the filler comprises CaO or MgO.

[0056] When used, fillers can be present in the first and / or second components described herein in any amount consistent with the technical objectives of the present disclosure. In some cases, for example, the first and / or second components contain up to 10% by weight, up to 7% by weight, up to 5% by weight, up to 2% by weight, or up to 1% by weight of filler, based on the total weight of the first and / or second components, respectively. In some embodiments, the first and / or second components contain 0.5-10% by weight, 1-10% by weight, 1-7% by weight, 1-5% by weight, 2-10% by weight, 2-7% by weight, 2-5% by weight, 3-10% by weight, 3-7% by weight, 3-5% by weight, 5-10% by weight, or 5-7% by weight of filler, based on the total weight of the first and / or second components, respectively.

[0057] Additionally, in some embodiments, the first component and / or the second component further comprise a flame retardant. Any flame retardant not inconsistent with the objectives of the present invention may be used. In some embodiments, the flame retardant comprises a foaming agent. Furthermore, in some cases, the flame retardant may comprise an organic or inorganic composition. In some examples, the flame retardant comprises a phosphate, such as ammonium phosphate, trisodium phosphate, triphenyl phosphate, tricresyl phosphate, tris(2-chloroethyl)phosphate, tris(2-chloro-1-(chloromethyl)ethyl)phosphate, tris(chloropropyl)phosphate, tris(1,3-dichloro-2-propyl)phosphate, or tetrex(2-chloroethyl)dichloroisopentyl diphosphate. In some embodiments, the flame retardant comprises aluminum hydroxide and / or magnesium hydroxide.

[0058] The flame retardant may also include a zeolite. Any zeolite not inconsistent with the objectives of the present disclosure may be used. In some cases, the zeolite includes a natural zeolite. In other embodiments, the zeolite includes an artificial zeolite. In some examples, the zeolite includes a silicate and / or an aluminosilicate. In some implementations, the zeolite has the following formula:

number

[0059] When used, the flame retardant can be present in the first component and / or second component described herein in any amount consistent with the technical objectives of the present disclosure. In some cases, for example, the first component and / or second component each contain up to 10% by weight, up to 7% by weight, up to 5% by weight, up to 2% by weight, or up to 1% by weight of the flame retardant, based on the total weight of the first component and / or second component. In some embodiments, the first component and / or second component each contain 0.5-10% by weight, 1-10% by weight, 1-7% by weight, 1-5% by weight, 2-10% by weight, 2-7% by weight, 2-5% by weight, 3-10% by weight, 3-7% by weight, 3-5% by weight, 5-10% by weight, or 5-7% by weight of the flame retardant, based on the total weight of the first component and / or second component.

[0060] The compositions described herein (or the first and / or second components) may also include a polymeric material (other than or different from the polysaccharide components described herein). Any polymeric material not inconsistent with the objectives of the present disclosure can be used. In some embodiments, the polymeric material includes an organic composition. For example, in some cases, the polymeric material includes a polyolefin, such as polyethylene or polypropylene, a polycarbonate, a polyester, or a polyurethane. In some examples, the polymeric material includes polyvinyl alcohol (PVA). In certain examples, the polymeric material includes an acrylic acid-based polymer. For example, in some embodiments, the acrylic acid-based polymer described herein includes poly(acrylic acid) (PAA) and / or an acrylic acid-based copolymer.

[0061] When used, additional polymeric materials can be present in the first and / or second components described herein in any amount consistent with the technical objectives of the present disclosure. In some cases, for example, the first and / or second components each comprise up to 10%, up to 7%, up to 5%, up to 2%, or up to 1% by weight of polymeric material, based on the total weight of the first and / or second components. In some embodiments, the first and / or second components each comprise 0.5-10%, 1-10%, 1-7%, 1-5%, 2-10%, 2-7%, 2-5%, 3-10%, 3-7%, 3-5%, 5-10%, or 5-7% by weight of polymeric material, based on the total weight of the first and / or second components.

[0062] Considering another possible additive, in some cases, the first component and / or the second component further comprise an antimicrobial. Any antimicrobial can be used consistent with the objectives of the present disclosure. The antimicrobial, in some cases, comprises an inorganic composition including a metal and / or a metal salt. In some embodiments, for example, the antimicrobial comprises metallic copper, zinc, or silver, or a salt of copper, zinc, or silver. Furthermore, in some cases, the antimicrobial comprising a metal can also modulate thermal conductivity. In other embodiments, the antimicrobial comprises an organic composition, including natural and synthetic organic compositions. In some cases, the antimicrobial comprises a β-lactam, such as penicillin or cephalosporin. In some implementations, the antimicrobial comprises a protein synthesis inhibitor, such as neomycin. In some embodiments, the antimicrobial comprises an organic acid, such as lactic acid, acetic acid, or citric acid. In some cases, the antimicrobial comprises a quaternary ammonium species. In some embodiments, the quaternary ammonium species comprises a long alkyl chain, such as an alkyl chain having a C8 to C28 backbone. In some examples, the antimicrobial comprises one or more of benzalkonium chloride, benzethonium chloride, methylbenzethonium chloride, cetalkonium chloride, cetylpyridinium chloride, cetrimonium, cetrimide, dophanium chloride, tetraethylammonium bromide, didecyldimethylammonium chloride, and domiphen bromide. Additionally, in some embodiments, one or more pH adjusters and / or ionic liquids may also be antimicrobials.

[0063] Further, in some implementations, the first component and / or the second component further comprise an organic phase change material (PCM). In some embodiments, the organic PCM comprises a fatty acid. In some such embodiments, the fatty acid can have a C4-C28 aliphatic hydrocarbon tail. For reference purposes herein, a "Cn-Cm" aliphatic hydrocarbon, alkyl, or similar alkylene moiety (e.g., a "C4-C28 aliphatic hydrocarbon or alkylene moiety") is understood to be a divalent saturated aliphatic radical having "n" to "m" carbon atoms (e.g., 4 to 28 carbon atoms, but no more than 28 carbon atoms). Non-limiting examples of fatty acids suitable for use in some embodiments described herein include caprylic acid, capric acid, lauric acid, myristic acid, palmitic acid, stearic acid, arachidic acid, behenic acid, lignoceric acid, and cerotic acid. Further, in some embodiments, the oxidized fat component described herein comprises multiple different fatty acids.

[0064] In some embodiments, the organic PCM comprises a fatty acid analog. In some examples, the fatty acid analog comprises a fatty sulfonic acid or phosphonic acid. Any fatty sulfonic acid or phosphonic acid not inconsistent with the objectives of the present invention may be used. In some embodiments, the organic phase change material comprises a C4-C28 alkyl sulfonic acid or phosphonic acid. In some embodiments, the organic phase change material comprises a C4-C28 alkenyl sulfonic acid or phosphonic acid. Further, in some embodiments, the organic PCM comprises polyethylene glycol. Any polyethylene glycol not inconsistent with the objectives of the present invention may be used.

[0065] In some examples, the organic PCMs described herein comprise alkyl esters of fatty acids. Any alkyl ester not inconsistent with the objectives of the present invention can be used. For example, in some embodiments, the alkyl esters comprise methyl, ethyl, propyl, or butyl esters of the fatty acids described herein. In other embodiments, the alkyl esters comprise a C2-C6 ester alkyl backbone or a C6-C12 ester alkyl backbone. In some embodiments, the alkyl esters comprise a C12-C28 ester alkyl backbone. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the organic PCMs described herein comprise alkyl esters of multiple different fatty acids. Non-limiting examples of alkyl esters of fatty acids suitable for use in some embodiments described herein include methyl laurate, methyl myristate, methyl palmitate, methyl stearate, methyl palmitoleate, methyl oleate, methyl linoleate, methyl docosahexaenoate, and methyl eicosapentanoate. In some embodiments, the corresponding ethyl, propyl, or butyl esters can also be used.

[0066] Further, in some embodiments, the organic phase change materials described herein include a fatty alcohol. Any fatty alcohol not inconsistent with the objectives of the present invention can be used. For example, the fatty alcohol can have a C4 to C28 aliphatic hydrocarbon tail in some embodiments. Further, in some embodiments, the hydrocarbon tail is saturated. Alternatively, in other embodiments, the hydrocarbon tail is unsaturated. In some embodiments, the hydrocarbon tail can be branched or linear. Non-limiting examples of fatty alcohols suitable for use in some embodiments described herein include caprylic alcohol, pelargonic alcohol, capric alcohol, undecyl alcohol, lauryl alcohol, tridecyl alcohol, myristyl alcohol, pentadecyl alcohol, cetyl alcohol, heptadecyl alcohol, stearyl alcohol, nonadecyl alcohol, arachidyl alcohol, heneicosyl alcohol, behenyl alcohol, lignoceryl alcohol, ceryl alcohol, and montanyl alcohol. Further, in some embodiments, the oxidized fat component described herein includes multiple different fatty alcohols.

[0067] Additionally, the organic PCM component, in some embodiments, comprises a mixture or combination of one or more fatty acids, fatty alcohols, and / or alkyl esters of fatty acids described herein. Any combination not inconsistent with the objectives of the present invention may be used. In some embodiments, for example, the organic PCM component comprises one or more fatty acids and one or more fatty alcohols.

[0068] Additionally, in some implementations, the first component and / or the second component further comprise an inorganic PCM component. In some embodiments, the inorganic component comprises a salt hydrate. Suitable salt hydrates include, but are not limited to, CaCl·6H2O and / or other CaCl hydrates, Ca(NO3)2·3H2O, NaSO4·10H2O, Na(NO3)2·6H2O, Zn(NO3)2·2H2O, FeCl3·2H2O, Co(NO3)2·6H2O, Ni(NO3)2·6H2O, MnCl2·4H2O, CH3COONa·3H2O, LiC2H3O2·2H2O, MnCl4·4H2O, MnCOONa·3H2O, MnCOONa·2 ... Examples of suitable salts include HCl·4H2O, NaOH·H2O, Cd(NO3)2·4H2O, Cd(NO3)2·1H2O, Fe(NO3)2·6H2O, NaAl(SO4)2·12H2O, FeSO4·7H2O, Na3PO4·12H2O, Na2B4O7·10H2O, Na3PO·12H2O, LiCH3COO·2H2O, NH4Br hydrate, KBr hydrate, NaBr hydrate, CaBr2 hydrate, and / or mixtures thereof. When the first and / or second components contain water, anhydrous salts may also be used in some cases. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the first and / or second components further comprise an inorganic PCM component and an organic PCM.

[0069] Additionally, in some examples, the first component and / or the second component further comprise a pH adjuster. The pH adjuster can be acidic or basic, meaning that it lowers / decreases or raises / increases the pH of the component. For example, in some embodiments, the pH adjuster lowers the pH of the shape-stable phase-change material composition compared to the pH in the absence of the pH adjuster (or the precursor mixture of the composition). In other examples, the pH adjuster raises the pH of the composition compared to the pH in the absence of the pH adjuster. Any pH adjuster consistent with the objectives of the present disclosure can be used. For example, in some cases, the pH adjuster comprises an organic acid or an organic base. In some such cases, the pH adjuster comprises citric acid, a citrate salt (e.g., sodium mono-, di-, or tri-citrate), lactic acid, a lactate salt, or acetic acid. In other embodiments, the pH adjuster comprises an inorganic acid or an inorganic base. For example, the inorganic acid comprises HCl, H2SO4, or HNO3, and the inorganic base comprises NaOH or KOH. Furthermore, in some cases, the first or second components described herein comprise or contain multiple pH adjusters. In some such cases, the first and / or second components described herein comprise at least two pH adjusters. In some embodiments, the first pH adjuster lowers the pH of the shape-stable phase-change material composition. In certain other embodiments, the first pH adjuster raises the pH of the composition. Correspondingly, the second pH adjuster can be selected to further modify the pH of the composition in combination with the first pH adjuster. For example, the second pH adjuster can further lower the pH of the shape-stable phase-change material composition when the first pH adjuster lowers the pH of the composition. Alternatively, the second pH adjuster can raise the pH of the shape-stable phase-change material composition when the first pH adjuster lowers the pH of the composition. Similarly, if the first pH adjuster increases the pH of the composition, the second pH adjuster may also increase the pH of the shape-stable phase-change material composition or may decrease the pH of the composition.

[0070] As described herein, in some embodiments, the first component and / or the second component includes a catalyst. In some such cases, the catalyst can be a pH adjuster or kinetics control agent, as described above. Furthermore, in some preferred embodiments, the first component includes a first catalyst, and the second component includes a second catalyst. Furthermore, in some such cases, the first catalyst increases the crosslinking rate of the first and second components upon, but not before, contact to form a shape-stable PCM. For example, in some such implementations, the first catalyst can initiate or increase the rate of reaction or crosslinking of a material present in the second component but not in the first component. Similarly, in some examples, the second catalyst (present in the second component but not in the first component) increases the crosslinking rate of the first and second components upon, but not before, contact to form a shape-stable PCM. For example, in some such implementations, the second catalyst can initiate or increase the rate of reaction or crosslinking of materials present in the first component but not in the second component. Thus, in some exemplary embodiments, the first component described herein includes a first catalyst and a first crosslinker, and the second component includes a second catalyst and a second crosslinker. Furthermore, in some such cases, the first catalyst (present in the first component) initiates or increases the rate of crosslinking performed by the second crosslinker (present in the second component), but does not initiate or increase the rate of crosslinking performed by the first crosslinker (present in the first component). Furthermore, in some such embodiments, the second catalyst (present in the second component) initiates or increases the rate of crosslinking performed by the first crosslinker (present in the first component), but does not initiate or increase the rate of crosslinking performed by the second crosslinker (present in the second component).

[0071] It should be further understood that in some instances, the compositions or first and / or second components described herein may contain water in addition to other species or materials. In some instances, water is present in the compositions or first and / or second components described herein as the "balance," which, combined with other species or materials present, constitutes 100% by weight. In some instances, the compositions or first and / or second components described herein contain up to 95%, up to 90%, up to 85%, up to 80%, up to 75%, or up to 70% by weight of water, based on the total weight of the composition, first and / or second component, respectively. In some examples, the composition described herein or the first component and / or the second component may be present in an amount of 10-95% by weight, 10-90% by weight, 10-85% by weight, 10-80% by weight, 10-75% by weight, 10-70% by weight, 10-60% by weight, 10-50% by weight, 10-40% by weight, 10-30% by weight, 20-95% by weight, 20-90% by weight, 20-85% by weight, 20-80% by weight, 20-75% by weight, 20-70% by weight, 20-60% by weight, 20-50% by weight, or 20-40% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition, the first component, and / or the second component, respectively. 20-30% by mass, 30-95% by mass, 30-90% by mass, 30-85% by mass, 30-80% by mass, 30-75% by mass, 30-70% by mass, 30-60% by mass, 30-50% by mass, 30-40% by mass, 40-95% by mass. 40-90% by mass, 40-85% by mass, 40-80% by mass, 40-75% by mass, 40-70% by mass, 40-60% by mass, 50-95% by mass, 50-90% by mass, 50-85% by mass, 50-8 0% by mass, 50-75% by mass, 50-70% by mass, 60-95% by mass, 60-90% by mass, 60-85% by mass, 60-80% by mass, 60-75% by mass, or 60-70% by mass of water.

[0072] Some embodiments described herein are further illustrated in the following non-limiting examples. [Example]

[0073] Methods for forming PCM compositions Various PCM compositions are formed using the components shown in Tables 2-6. Table 2 provides non-limiting examples of the first components described herein. In Table 2, for each example first component ("First Comp." or "FC" in Table 2), the weight percentages (based on 100% total weight of the first component) of various materials or subcomponents are provided. That is, the values ​​in Table 2 are the weight percentages of the identified materials and subcomponents. In Table 2, "Linker" refers to a crosslinker; "pHM" refers to a pH adjuster; "KCA" refers to a kinetic control agent; "Filler" refers to a filler; "Ion.Liq" refers to an ionic liquid; "FR" refers to a flame retardant; "PM" refers to a polymeric material; "AM" refers to an antimicrobial; "APCM" refers to an additional PCM, including organic or inorganic PCMs; and "Cat." refers to a catalyst. A hyphen ("--") indicates the absence of a material. Table 3 provides the contents of various minor components of the first component from Table 2. In Table 3, "polysacch." refers to polysaccharide; "Zr." refers to zirconium compound or complex; "BA" refers to boric acid; "BO" refers to borate; "zeol." refers to zeolite; "FRF" refers to flame-retardant foam; "AMOC" refers to antimicrobial organic composition; "pyr." refers to pyridinium-based ionic liquid; "chol." refers to choline-containing ionic liquid; and "ORC" refers to organic catalyst. In Tables 2 and 3, the remainder, making up 100% by weight, is water.

[0074] Similarly, Table 4 provides non-limiting examples of the second components described herein. In Table 4, for each example second component ("Sec. Comp." or "SC" in Table 4), the weight percentages (based on 100% total weight of the second component) for various materials or subcomponents are provided using the same abbreviations as Tables 2 and 3. That is, the values ​​in Table 4 are the weight percentages of the identified materials and subcomponents. Table 5 provides the content of various subcomponents of the second component from Table 4 using the same abbreviations as Table 3. In Tables 4 and 5, the remainder making up 100% by weight is water.

[0075] Table 6 provides combinations ("Comb." in Table 6) of specific first and second components from Tables 2-5. Generally, for the following examples, a first fluid stream containing the first component and a second fluid stream containing the second component are intersected in a homogenization chamber to provide a crosslinked matrix. Complete or substantially complete homogenization of the first and second components occurs within the homogenization chamber before exiting the homogenization chamber. The resulting PCM composition is poured into a reaction vessel. [Table 2] [Table 3] [Table 4] [Table 5] [Table 6]

[0076] Some additional exemplary implementations of embodiments consistent with the present disclosure are as follows:

[0077] Embodiment 1. A method of forming a shape-stable phase change material, comprising: mixing the first component and the second component to provide a crosslinked matrix; and Injecting the cross-linked matrix into a reaction vessel under conditions that cause the cross-linked matrix to cross-link and form the shape-stable phase change material. Including, the conditions for crosslinking the crosslinked matrix to form the shape-stable phase change material include a period of 1 second to 100 hours; the first component is flowable at a temperature above 0°C at 1 atmosphere; said second component being flowable at a temperature above 0°C at 1 atmosphere; The shape-stable phase change material is shape-stable at temperatures above 0°C at 1 atmosphere. method.

[0078] Embodiment 2. The method of embodiment 1, wherein the crosslinked matrix comprises a polyol.

[0079] Embodiment 3. The method of embodiment 1 or embodiment 2, wherein the crosslinked matrix comprises a saccharide, wherein the saccharide comprises a monosaccharide, a disaccharide, an oligosaccharide, or a polysaccharide.

[0080] Embodiment 4. The method of any one of embodiments 1-3, wherein the crosslinked matrix comprises a sugar alcohol, wherein the sugar alcohol comprises glycol, glycerol, erythritol, threitol, arabitol, xylitol, ribitol, mannitol, sorbitol, dulcitol, iditol, isomalt, maltitol, or lactitol.

[0081] Embodiment 5. The method of any one of embodiments 1-4, wherein combining the first component and the second component to provide the crosslinked matrix comprises combining the first component and the second component in a ratio of about 70:30 to about 90:10 by volume.

[0082] Embodiment 6. The method of any one of embodiments 1-4, wherein combining the first component and the second component to provide the crosslinked matrix comprises combining the first component and the second component in a ratio of about 70:30 to about 85:15 by volume.

[0083] Embodiment 7. The method of any one of embodiments 1-4, wherein combining the first component and the second component to provide the crosslinked matrix comprises combining the first component and the second component in a ratio of about 70:30 to about 80:20 by volume.

[0084] Embodiment 8. The method of any one of embodiments 1-4, wherein combining the first component and the second component to provide the crosslinked matrix comprises combining the first component and the second component in a ratio of about 75:25 by volume.

[0085] Embodiment 9. The method of any one of embodiments 1-8, wherein combining the first component and the second component to provide the crosslinked matrix comprises adding the first component to a first fluid stream and adding the second component to a second fluid stream.

[0086] Embodiment 10. The method of embodiment 9, wherein mixing the first component and the second component to provide the crosslinked matrix comprises directing the first fluid stream and the second fluid stream to intersect in a homogenization chamber.

[0087] Embodiment 11. The method of embodiment 10, wherein the homogenization chamber is suspended above the reaction vessel.

[0088] Embodiment 12. The method of embodiment 11, wherein injecting the crosslinked matrix into the reaction vessel comprises gravity feeding the crosslinked matrix from the homogenization chamber into the reaction vessel.

[0089] Embodiment 13. The method of embodiment 10, wherein the first fluid stream flows through a first nozzle toward the homogenization chamber and the second fluid stream flows through a second nozzle toward the homogenization chamber.

[0090] Embodiment 14. The method of embodiment 13, wherein the first nozzle has a first diameter and the second nozzle has a second diameter, and the ratio of the first diameter to the second diameter corresponds to the volume ratio of the first component to the second component within 10%.

[0091] Embodiment 15. The method of embodiment 14, wherein the ratio of the first diameter to the second diameter is from about 70:30 to about 90:10, or from about 70:30 to 85:15.

[0092] Embodiment 16. The method of embodiment 14, wherein the ratio of the first diameter to the second diameter is about 70:30 to 80:20.

[0093] Embodiment 17. The method of embodiment 14, wherein the ratio of the first diameter to the second diameter is about 75:25.

[0094] Embodiment 18. The method of any one of embodiments 1-17, wherein the first component comprises at least a first linker component and the second component comprises at least a second linker component that can be crosslinked to form the shape-stable phase-change material.

[0095] Embodiment 19. The method of embodiment 18, wherein the first linker component and the second linker component crosslink to form the shape-stable phase change material at 0° C. and 1 atmosphere pressure for a period of at least 1 hour in the absence of the second component, and at 0° C. and 1 atmosphere pressure for a period of less than 1 hour, less than 30 minutes, less than 15 minutes, or less than 5 minutes in the presence of the second component.

[0096] Embodiment 20. The method of embodiment 18, wherein the first linker component and the second linker component crosslink to form the shape-stable phase-change material at 0° C. and 1 atmosphere pressure for a period of at least 3 hours in the absence of the second component, and at 0° C. and 1 atmosphere pressure for a period of less than 3 hours, less than 2 hours, less than 1 hour, less than 30 minutes, less than 15 minutes, or less than 5 minutes in the presence of the second component.

[0097] Embodiment 21. The method of embodiment 18, wherein the first component or the second component comprises at least one catalyst operable to increase the rate of cross-linking between the first linker component and the second linker component.

[0098] Embodiment 22. The method of any one of embodiments 1-21, wherein the first component or the second component comprises at least one pH adjuster.

[0099] All patent documents mentioned herein are incorporated by reference in their entirety. Various embodiments of the present invention have been described to accomplish various objectives of the present invention. It is to be recognized that these embodiments are merely illustrative of the principles of the present invention. Numerous modifications and adaptations thereof will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. 1. A method of forming a shape-stable phase change material, comprising: mixing the first component and the second component to provide a crosslinked matrix; and Injecting the cross-linked matrix into a reaction vessel under conditions that cause the cross-linked matrix to cross-link and form the shape-stable phase change material. Including, the conditions under which the crosslinked matrix crosslinks to form the shape-stable phase change material include a time period between 1 second and 100 hours; the first component is flowable at a temperature above 0°C at 1 atmosphere; the second component is flowable at a temperature above 0°C at 1 atmosphere; The shape-stable phase change material is shape-stable at temperatures above 0° C. at 1 atmosphere. A method characterized by:

2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the crosslinked matrix comprises a polyol.

3. 10. The method of claim 1, wherein the crosslinked matrix comprises a monosaccharide, a disaccharide, an oligosaccharide, or a polysaccharide.

4. 10. The method of claim 1, wherein the crosslinked matrix comprises glycerol, erythritol, threitol, arabitol, xylitol, ribitol, mannitol, sorbitol, dulcitol, iditol, isomalt, maltitol, or lactitol.

5. 10. The method of claim 1, wherein mixing the first component and the second component to provide the crosslinked matrix comprises mixing the first component and the second component in a ratio of about 70:30 to about 90:10 by volume.

6. 10. The method of claim 1, wherein mixing the first component and the second component to provide the crosslinked matrix comprises mixing the first component and the second component in a ratio of about 70:30 to about 85:15 by volume.

7. 10. The method of claim 1, wherein mixing the first component and the second component to provide the crosslinked matrix comprises mixing the first component and the second component in a ratio of about 70:30 to about 80:20 by volume.

8. 10. The method of claim 1, wherein mixing the first component and the second component to provide the crosslinked matrix comprises mixing the first component and the second component in a ratio of about 75:25 by volume.

9. 10. The method of claim 1, wherein mixing the first component and the second component to provide the crosslinked matrix comprises adding the first component to a first fluid stream and adding the second component to a second fluid stream.

10. 10. The method of claim 9, wherein mixing the first and second components to provide the crosslinked matrix comprises directing the first and second fluid streams to intersect within a homogenization chamber.

11. 11. The method of claim 10, wherein the homogenization chamber is suspended above the reaction vessel.

12. 12. The method of claim 11, wherein injecting the cross-linked matrix into the reaction vessel comprises gravity feeding the cross-linked matrix from the homogenization chamber into the reaction vessel.

13. 11. The method of claim 10, wherein the first fluid stream flows through a first nozzle toward the homogenization chamber and the second fluid stream flows through a second nozzle toward the homogenization chamber.

14. 14. The method of claim 13, wherein the first nozzle has a first diameter and the second nozzle has a second diameter, and the ratio of the first diameter to the second diameter corresponds to the volume ratio of the first component to the second component within 10%.

15. 15. The method of claim 14, wherein the ratio of the first diameter to the second diameter is about 70:30 to about 90:10, or about 70:30 to 85:

15.

16. 15. The method of claim 14, wherein the ratio of the first diameter to the second diameter is between about 70:30 and 80:

20.

17. 15. The method of claim 14, wherein the ratio of the first diameter to the second diameter is about 75:

25.

18. 10. The method of claim 1, wherein the first component comprises at least a first linker component and at least a second linker component capable of crosslinking to form the shape-stable phase-change material.

19. 20. The method of claim 18, wherein the first linker component and the second linker component crosslink to form the shape-stable phase-change material at 0° C. and 1 atmosphere pressure for a period of at least 1 hour in the absence of the second component and at 0° C. and 1 atmosphere pressure for a period of less than 15 minutes in the presence of the second component.

20. 20. The method of claim 18, wherein the first linker component and the second linker component crosslink to form the shape-stable phase change material at 0° C. and 1 atmosphere pressure for a period of at least 3 hours in the absence of the second component and at 0° C. and 1 atmosphere pressure for a period of less than 30 minutes in the presence of the second component.

21. 20. The method of claim 18, wherein the first component or the second component comprises at least one catalyst operable to increase the rate of cross-linking between the first linker component and the second linker component.

22. 10. The method of claim 1, wherein the first component or the second component comprises at least one pH adjuster.

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