Preparation and Characterization of Composite Phase Change Materials Based on Enhanced Thermal Conductivity of Silicon Carbide–Carbon Nanotubes

A novel composite phase change material (CPCM) was developed by combining carbonized melamine foam (CMF) with chemically bonded silicon carbide–carbon nanotubes (SiC–CNTs) hybrid network. CMF is prepared through the carbonization process, and a graphitized layer is formed on the surface, and a continuous carbon network structure is formed inside. SiC–CNTs form a continuous thermal conduction path through covalent bonding. The experimental results show that the thermal conductivity of the CPCM is increased to 1.2117 W/m·K, which is 4.3 times higher than that of pure paraffin (0.2813 W/m·K), and the latent heat retention rate is 79%. The CPCM exhibits excellent cycle stability, and the ΔH attenuation is less than 5% after 100 cycles. The composite material has excellent thermal properties and structural stability, providing a new and efficient energy storage material choice for the field of thermal management.