We’ve seen various iterations of those materials over the decades.
What Are Phase-Change Thermal Pads?
The change happens at slightly above room temperature, making it suitable for use in consumer electronics.
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One other promising PTM isgallium,a metal with a melting point of 85.58F (29.76C).
Alienware uses gallium (Element 31) in a few of their high-end laptops, like the AlienwareX15andX17.
Phase-Change Thermal Pad vs.
Thermal Paste: When to Use Pads
PTM thermal pads could be an excellent alternative to conventional thermal paste.
In fact, the difference between the three was insignificant.
Honeywell has thoroughlytested the PTM7000by alternating between -55C and 125C for 1,000 cycles.
PTMs are an amazing thermal solution by all accountsprovided they come pre-installed by the manufacturer.
For everybody else, thermal paste is still more convenient, cheaper, and easier to apply.
MSI has done something similar as wellMSI uses phase-change metal padsthat essentially turn into liquid metal when heated.
The prospect that these developments present is thrilling.
