Innovation of a Non-Electric Heat Pack Using Sodium Acetate Trihydrate: An Evaluation of Heat Retention Efficiency for Promoting Community Well-Being

Abstract

This experimental research aimed to (1) investigate the effects of sodium acetate trihydrate mass on the heat retention efficiency of a non-electric heat pack, (2) evaluate the temperature suitability and safety for health-related applications, and (3) examine the reusability potential of the non-electric heat pack for promoting sustainable community well-being. This study focused on developing an alternative healthcare innovation that does not require electrical energy by utilizing sodium acetate trihydrate, a phase change material (PCM) capable of efficiently storing and releasing thermal energy. The experiment was conducted using four different masses of sodium acetate trihydrate: 80, 120, 160, and 200 grams, which were contained in prototype heat packs. Each experiment was repeated three times to measure heat retention duration, minimum temperature, maximum temperature, and average temperature. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. The results revealed that increasing the mass of sodium acetate trihydrate resulted in corresponding increases in both heat retention duration and temperature levels. The heat pack containing 200 grams of sodium acetate trihydrate demonstrated the longest heat retention duration; however, its maximum temperature exceeded the recommended safety threshold for therapeutic heat application. In contrast, the heat pack containing 160 grams showed the most appropriate balance between heat retention efficiency and safety, as it maintained prolonged heat retention while keeping the maximum temperature below 45 degrees Celsius. In addition, the developed heat pack could be reused effectively over repeated cycles. In conclusion, the non-electric heat pack using sodium acetate trihydrate has strong potential as a safe, energy-saving, reusable, and community-appropriate innovation for primary healthcare and the sustainable promotion of community well-being.