| abstract |
Polymeric composites and methods of manufacturing polymeric composites are described. In one embodiment, a set of microcapsules containing a phase change material are mixed with a dispersing polymeric material to form a first blend. The dispersing polymeric material has a latent heat of at least 40 J/g and a transition temperature in the range of 0° C. to 50° C. The first blend is processed to form a polymeric composite. The polymeric composite can be formed in a variety of shapes, such as pellets, fibers, flakes, sheets, films, rods, and so forth. The polymeric composite can be used as is or incorporated in various articles where a thermal regulating property is desired. |