Polymer-Containing Dolostone-Matrix Composites for Room-Temperature Thermal Energy Storage by Cold Sintering

The cold sintering process (CSP) was employed at room temperature to consolidate dolostone powders and dolostone-matrix composites containing a dispersed organic phase for near-room temperature thermal energy storage. The materials' microstructure and structure were thoroughly analyzed, and their mechanical and thermal properties were assessed. The results show that the composite's density increases with CSP pressure and bending strength (up to about 10–12 MPa). These composites exhibit a thermal energy storage capacity of approximately 15 J g−1 at near-room temperature, thanks to the latent heat of fusion/crystallization of the organic phase (i.e., the phase change material, PCM). Specific care needs to be taken in choosing the PCM, as it could cause unwanted interactions with the CSP solution. The developed process offers a new approach for manufacturing sustainable materials with low embodied energy and thermal management capabilities.