Copper- and manganese-based layered hybrid organic–inorganic compounds with polymorphic transitions as energy storage materials

Abstract

Solid–solid phase change materials (ss-PCM) have emerged as a promising alternative to traditional methods of thermal regulation, such as solid–liquid transformations. Due to their wide operational temperature range and competitive performance, ss-PCM materials are increasingly being explored for their potential in cooling electronic devices. Here, we explore the potential of layered hybrid organic–inorganic perovskites (LHOIPs) as thermal energy storage materials for passive cooling applications. Two formulations, bis(dodecylammonium) tetrachlorocuprate(II) (CuC₁₂) and bis(dodecylammonium) tetrachloromanganate(II) (MnC₁₂) were synthesised and comprehensively characterised. The analyses revealed that these materials present a two-dimensional structure with a triclinic conformation at 100 K. Notably, both materials exhibited a polymorphic transformation with low thermal hysteresis (1.3–2.5 K). These findings indicate that these materials hold significant potential as thermoregulator materials in cooling electronics. Furthermore, both CuC₁₂ and MnC₁₂ demonstrated good thermal stability compared to other types of ss-PCM. Overall, the findings of this study suggest that LHOIPs, particularly CuC₁₂ and MnC₁₂, are promising candidates for further exploration as thermal energy storage materials in electronic cooling applications.