Synthesis and properties of multifunctional microencapsulated phase change material for intelligent textiles.

Microencapsulated phase change materials (MEPCMs) have been widely used in many fields as thermal energy storage materials. This study reported a novel MEPCM with the functions of thermal energy storage, photothermal conversion, ultraviolet (UV) shielding, and superhydrophobicity, which was particularly suitable for intelligent textiles. The microcapsules based on an n-eicosane core and a CuO-doped polyurea shell with hierarchical structure were fabricated through a one-step interfacial polymerization. The morphology of the capsules and the hierarchical shell structure were identified through scanning and transmission electron microscopy. Thermal analysis indicated that the microcapsules had a high latent heat of 162.3 J/g and demonstrated a high thermal reliability. These microcapsules achieved a good photothermal conversion capability and can reduce UV radiation by approximately 30%. The water contact angle of the MEPCM was over 148° and showed a good superhydrophobic property. Cotton fabric coated with the prepared MEPCM was investigated. Results showed that it achieved a high phase change enthalpy of 36.8 J/g, an effective thermoregulation capability, and a large contact angle of 141.6°. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]