Method of containing a phase change material in a porous carbon material and articles produced thereby

Abstract

A process for fabricating a carbon composite structure that is lightweight, structurally sound, and characterized by high heat capacity. A carbon structure is devised with cavities therein receiving a phase change medium. The phase change medium demonstrates both high energy absorption capacity and high thermal conductivity and is formed from a carbon fiber to establish a high porosity medium having a large volume fraction. The surface energy of the carbon fibers is enhanced in various ways as by deposition of a carbide former, a metallurgical coating or a precursor liquid or by electroplating or etching the surfaces of the carbon fibers. The enhanced surface energy allows for the retention of phase change material.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.