Utilization of diatom frustules for thermal management applications

摘要

Diatom frustules have a unique nanoporous structure consisting of biosilica. In the present work, the possibility of the novel utilization of diatom frustules for thermal management applications was examined. Cultured diatoms were treated with various processes to prepare their frustule powders. The porous and water vapor adsorption-desorption properties of the powders were influenced by the treatment method. When the powders were coated on a silicon substrate, the adsorption of the water vapor into their nanopores by humidification treatment enhanced the thermal transfer properties of the powders An increase in the adsorbed amount of water vapor into their nanopores caused an improvement in their thermal diffusivity.