abstract |
A process for moderating the thermal energy content of a body with a container enclosing a phase change material (PCM) is detailed. The phase change material comprises a high molecular weight dibasic organic acid and mixtures thereof. Miscible aliphatic and aryl monobasic acids are also suitable as PCM constituents. The PCM is capable of absorbing thermal energy from a variety of bodies including air, heat transfer fluids, combustion reactions, radiation sources and the like. In the course of absorbing thermal energy the PCM undergoes a reversible melt. Upon the PCM being exposed to a temperature below its melting temperature, the PCM releases the stored latent heat of fusion energy absorbed upon melting and undergoes a reversible freeze.\! |