Synergistic effect of phase change materials and reduced graphene oxide in enhancing the thermoregulating properties of polymeric composites

Design and development of thermoregulating polymeric composite laminates occurs for application in the field of wearable prosthetics, in which the reduction of thermal discomfort is a key-issue to improve the life quality of amputee patients. They are based on an acrylic thermoset resin modified with phase change microcapsules (PCMs) and a fabric of polyamide (Perlon®) fibers coated with reduced graphene oxide (rGO). Morphological, thermal, mechanical and heat transfer properties of the resulting composite laminates are investigated. The presence of the rGO coating on the fabrics facilitates heat conduction, and increase the composite thermal diffusivity of about 70%, as compared with pristine acrylic resin and non-modified perlon fabric. The PCMs reduce about 50% the temperature increase of the composite laminate when subject to external heating. Moreover, the combination of rGO and PCMs enhances the thermal storage potential of the PCMs, contributing to further reducing the temperature fluctuations of the composite laminates. Graphical Abstract: [Figure not available: see fulltext.]