Polyrotaxane based phase change materials-A critical review

• The preparation, molding, modification, and typical applications of α-CD-based PLR-PCM are systematically summarized. • The advantages and disadvantages of PLR-PCM are objectively analyzed. • Relevant development strategies for PLR-PCM are highlighted. Polyrotaxane-based phase change materials (PLR-PCMs) are increasingly recognized as versatile and efficient solutions for thermal energy storage, offering benefits such as outstanding form stability, leakage proof performance, flexibility, and multifunctional capabilities. This mini-review delves into the synthesis and processing techniques, functionalization strategies, and diverse applications (such as, thermal management in electronics and thermoelectric conversion) of PLR-PCMs, with a focus on recent progress in improving the flexible PCM properties and exploring innovative applications in energy storage, electronics, and thermoelectric conversion. Moreover, it provides a critical assessment of the advantages over conventional flexible PCMs, disadvantages, and future outlooks of PLR-PCMs, underscoring their transformative potential in advancing energy management and fostering sustainable technological development.