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Intercalated Phosphonate-Clay Composites as Latent Heat Storage Materials for Masonry--Cape Cod Research, Inc., 19 Research Road, East Falmouth, MA 02536-4440; 508-540-4400
Dr. Brian G. Dixon, Principal Investigator
Ms. Katherine D. Finnegan, Business Official
DOE Grant No. DE-FG02-99ER82757
Amount: $100,000
Effective utilization of thermal storage in a passive solar low-energy building can significantly improve the building's energy performance and comfort. Traditional building materials are economical, functional, and insulative; however, they do not possess the capability of reversibly storing heat. This project will develop low cost masonry materials with enhanced heat storage capabilities. Practical clay-alkylphosphonate compositions, which undergo energetic and reversible solid-solid state energy storage transitions, will be examined. The desirable properties of high latent heat storage capacity will result in materials that can be readily used as state-of-the-art masonry materials, such as wallboard. Phase I will involve the synthesis of alkyl phosphonates, followed by intercalation within clays. Heat storage evaluations will also be conducted.
Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee: The technology should allow present masonry materials to be replaced with improved products.