Encapsulation of Phase Change Material into Cellulose as a Fever Compress

Abstract

The instant fever compresses on the market have a weakness, namely that they are only used once. Therefore, it is necessary to develop an instant compress that can be used repeatedly. Phase change materials (PCM) have unique properties because they can absorb and release heat at certain temperatures. However, PCM has the disadvantage of being in the form of a candle. Therefore, PCM needs to be encapsulated with other materials to strengthen its properties. In this research, a PCM-cellulose-based fever compress will be developed. The method used goes through 4 stages, namely: (1) cellulose synthesis (2) PCM encapsulation on cellulose (3) Printing of fever compresses (4) analysis and testing of the ability of the compress to absorb heat. The results of the research show that fever compresses are able to reduce heat. from 40 oC to 36 oC in 10 minutes. Adhesion test results show that the fever compress can be sticky for up to 24 hours. The best combination of fever compresses in the 20% eicosane cellulose encapsulation formulation. Fever compresses can be done repeatedly with the same results after being done 3 times.