Fabrication and Properties of Polyethylene Glycol-Modified Wood Composite for Energy Storage and Conversion

• Main Authors: Yun Li, Xianjun Li, Dandan Liu, Xiyi Cheng, Xia He, Yiqiang Wu, Xingong Li, Qiongtao Huang
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: North Carolina State University 2016-08-01
• Series: BioResources
• Subjects: Polyethylene glycol (PEG); Wood; Energy storage and saving; Dimensional stability; Thermal qualities
• Online Access: http://ojs.cnr.ncsu.edu/index.php/BioRes/article/view/BioRes_11_3_7790_Li_Fabrication_Properties_Polyethylene_Glycol_Wood_Composites

Green fir wood (Pseudotsuga menziesii) was modified with polyethylene glycol (PEG) to produce wood composites for energy storage and conversion. The PEG-modified wood composites were evaluated based on their dimensional stability, durability, and thermal properties by various analytical methods. The differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) results showed the melting temperature and the latent heat of the phase change material (PCM) composite were 26.74 °C and 73.59 J/g, respectively. Thermal cycling tests and thermogravimetric analysis confirmed the composite exhibited good thermal stability, reliability, and chemical stability. All treated specimens were free from noticeable defects, and the addition of a surface varnish coating prevented PEG from leaching. The PEG-modified composites exhibited improved dimensional and thermal performance, which makes this material a potential candidate for economical and green, lightweight building materials.