Sreenadh Thaikkattu: Nanocellulose-Based Hybrid Aerogels for Thermal Management in Smart Packaging
University of Oulu
This work presents the development of nanocellulose-based hybrid aerogels for smart packaging aimed at temperature regulation in cold chain logistics. The material combines the passive thermal insulation properties of highly porous aerogels with active heat storage and release capability of encapsulated phase change materials (PCMs).
The aerogel matrix minimizes external heat transfer, while the embedded PCM microcapsules buffer temperature fluctuations by absorbing excess heat during warming and releasing stored heat during cooling. This dual-function approach helps maintain the internal temperature of packaged goods within a defined safe range.
The system demonstrates potential as a lightweight, sustainable solution for improving thermal stability in temperature-sensitive transport and storage applications.