Micro-/nano-encapsulated phase change materials: Revolutionising heat transfer fluids for solar energy applications

• Encapsulated phase change fluids significantly enhance solar heat transfer. • Composite materials improve thermal storage efficiency in solar systems. • Stable, high-performance composite materials support long-term solar energy use. • Eco-friendly phase change materials foster sustainability in thermal applications. • Scalable methods support low-cost production of solar thermal materials. Micro- and nano-encapsulated composite phase change material-based heat transfer fluids represent a promising advancement for solar energy systems by significantly enhancing heat transfer and thermal energy storage capabilities. This review addresses the critical limitations of conventional heat transfer fluids, such as…