Stearic acid fatty esters as biobased phase change materials for building applications: Structure–property relationships and climate-specific suitability

Key Points

• Biobased phase change materials demonstrate improved thermal performance and environmental benefits, enhancing energy efficiency.
• The study indicates that stearic acid and its esters can effectively regulate building temperatures across different climates.
• Assessment of structure-property relationships highlights the importance of molecular configurations for optimal performance.
• Findings suggest that these materials could be pivotal in sustainable building practices, supporting climate resilience.