The National Science Foundation (NSF) awarded a $310,000 Project Grant under the Integrative Activities (CFDA 47.083) program to the University of Alabama to develop a novel low-cost, fire-resistant phase change material (PCM) microcapsule called CENOPCM. This "Partnerships for Innovation - Research Partnerships (PFI-RP)" project aims to improve building energy systems and reduce carbon dioxide emissions by enabling more widespread adoption of thermal energy storage technologies. The key products being developed include a low-cost PCM material upcycled from soapstock, and a novel microencapsulation method using cenospheres. This will result in CENOPCM microcapsules that can be seamlessly integrated with HVAC systems to achieve higher energy efficiencies in various building types and climate zones. The University of Tennessee is a sub-awardee on this project, focused on developing the low-cost, fire-resistant PCM material. This multi-faceted effort also emphasizes cultivating a diverse group of student participants and providing entrepreneurial skills training.
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