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Thermochromic phase change beads based on phenolphthalein/ octadecylamine/ decanol for low-temperature indication and thermal buffering in cold chain logistics
Author(s)
Thanaritthimanomai, Aunchisa
Date Issued
July 1, 2025
Type
Article
Abstract
This study presents the development of thermochromic phase change beads (TC-BPA) designed for low-temperature applications (0–5 °C) in cold chain logistics. The beads were fabricated by encapsulating a ternary system—comprising phenolphthalein (PHP) as the color former, octadecylamine (ODA) as the developer, and decanol (10OH) as the solvent—within an alginate shell using a simple extrusion-dripping technique. Optimization of the component ratios yielded uniformly spherical beads (1.82–2.20 mm diameter) with rapid and reversible color transitions. Notably, the optimal formulation (TC-BPA10) shifted from purple to pale pink within 10 s (ΔE = 61.46 ± 1.27) and turned completely white within 60 s (ΔE = 82.66 ± 0.77) at 25 °C. Differential scanning calorimetry revealed a melting temperature of 4.9 °C and a latent heat of 200.05 J/g, with only a slight decrease after 100 thermal cycles. Additionally, TC-BPA10 maintained a stable temperature range (–2.2 °C to 2.9 °C) for approximately 28 min, demonstrating effective thermal buffering. These properties suggest that TC-BPA10 is a promising candidate for integrated temperature monitoring and energy storage in smart refrigerated packaging in cold chain logistics.
Citation
Materials Today Communications, 47, 2025