EUBCE 2026 - Paola HERRERA ARDILA - Synthesis of Biobased Phase Change Materials from Vegetable and Microalgal Oils and Melamine with Intrinsic Flame-Retardancy

Synthesis of Biobased Phase Change Materials from Vegetable and Microalgal Oils and Melamine with Intrinsic Flame-Retardancy

Short Introductive summary

Phase change materials (PCMs) store and release thermal energy through reversible phase transitions, enabling their use in building insulation, thermal energy storage systems, and smart textiles applications. Fatty acids have emerged as promising organic PCMs due to their high storage capacity, thermal stability, and renewability. However, their high flammability limits their large-scale use in building and energy applications. This study develops bio-based PCMs with intrinsic flame-retardant properties, synthesized from palm, soybean, and microalgal oils through chemical reaction with melamine, a nitrogen-based flame retardant. FTIR confirmed the conversion of fatty acids into amides, while DSC revealed increased melting and freezing points compared to raw oils, and TGA showed improved thermal stability and higher char residues (11–24%), indicating enhanced flame retardancy. The incorporation of melamine not only increased the flash and fire points but also reduced combustion time by up to 89%, demonstrating the successful synthesis of bio-PCMs with integrated fire resistance. These novel PCMs combine renewable sourcing, enhanced safety, and efficient energy storage performance.

P. Herrera Ardila, University of Calgary, CANADA
M. Clarke, University of Calgary, CANADA
H. De la Hoz Siegler, University of Calgary, CANADA