Abstract: The research advances in thermal energy storage using phase change materials (PCMs) with focus on the state-of-the-art development of materials are reviewed. After a brief discussion on the classification of PCMs according to the phase change temperature, currently widely used PCMs are summarized. Their properties, preparation, applications and technical barriers are presented. Finally, an outlook for the future development of PCMs is given, indicating that the assembly of PCMs, phase change heat exchanger, and the concept of thermal management will be the main trend in development of high efficient thermal storage systems.

Key words: phase change materials, thermal energy storage, transition temperature, transition temperature

摘要： 对储热特别是相变储热材料的研究进展进行了综述. 根据不同相变温度对相变储热材料进行分类，重点介绍了目前广泛应用的相变储热材料的重要性能、制备方法、应用及存在的问题，并对相变储热材料的下一步研究进行了展望，提出将相变材料的研究与相变储热换热器和热管理理念相结合是发展高效储能系统的主流发展方向.

关键词: 相变材料, 储热, 相变温度, 潜热