Polymer and Composite Materials in Two-Phase Passive Thermal Management Systems: A Review

The application of polymeric and composite materials in two-phase passive heat transfer devices is reviewed critically, with a focus on advantages and disadvantages of these materials in thermal management systems. Recent technology developments led to an increase of the power density in several applications including portable electronics, space and deployable systems, etc., which require high-performance and compact thermal management systems. In this context, passive two-phase systems are the most promising heat transfer devices to dissipate large heat fluxes without external power supply. Usually, heat transfer systems are built with metals due to their excellent thermal properties. However, there is an increasing interest in replacing metallic materials with polymers and composites that can offer cost-effectiveness, light weight and high mechanical flexibility. The present work reviews state-of the-art applications of polymers and composites in two-phase passive thermal management systems, with an analysis of their limitations and technical challenges.