Enhancing Marine Sustainability: A Review of Nano-Enhanced Bio-Based Phase Change Materials for Energy Storage and Thermal Regulation

The increasing necessity for efficient and sustainable thermal management solutions in marine environments has attracted interest in nano-enhanced bio-based phase change materials NE BB-PCMs. This review explores the advancements in NEPCMs tailored for marine applications, emphasizing their potential to revolutionize energy storage and thermal regulation on marine vessels and platforms. These materials combine the high energy storage capacity of bio-based phase change materials (PCMs) with the enhanced thermal properties afforded by nanotechnology, offering a promising solution to improve energy efficiency, reduce fossil fuel dependence, and mitigate environmental impact in marine settings. Direct mixing, encapsulation, and in-situ synthesis methods are analyzed for their effectiveness in enhancing thermal conductivity and stability in harsh marine conditions. This paper discusses various nanoparticles, including carbon-based materials and metal oxides, optimizing the thermal characteristics of PCMs by increasing conductivity and reducing supercooling. Applications include thermal energy storage for desalination, temperature regulation on ships, and anti-icing coatings for marine structures. Challenges like biodegradability, cost, and long-term performance under marine conditions are addressed. This review highlights NEPCMs’ potential in improving sustainability and operational efficiency in the marine environment sector.