Thermal evaluation of laminated composite phase change material gypsum board under dynamic conditions

• Published in: Renewable energy 2015-06, Vol.78, p.448-456
• Main Authors: Zhou, Tongyu, Darkwa, Jo, Kokogiannakis, Georgios
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Energy storage and discharge; Heat transfer; Laminated gypsum board; Non-deform PCM
• ISSN: 0960-1481; 1879-0682
• DOI: 10.1016/j.renene.2015.01.025

Thermal evaluation of non-deform laminated composite phase change material (PCM) gypsum board has been carried out. The theoretical studies covered the analysis of different thicknesses of PCM layers and their corresponding heat transfer rates during energy storage and discharge processes. A simply approach was also provided for determining the appropriate thicknesses of PCM layer under various conditions. For the purpose of experimental study and validation, a laminated gypsum board consisting of a 4 mm PCM layer was evaluated in a naturally ventilated condition. It achieved a maximum heat exchange of 15.6 W/m2 and a maximum energy storage of 363.7 kJ/m2. A model room built with the laminated PCM gypsum boards was also evaluated and achieved a maximum temperature reduction of 5 °C as compared with 1.8 °C for the one with ordinary gypsum board. Even though about 25% of the energy stored could not be released within the targeted period, the overall thermal performance of the PCM gypsum board was quite remarkable. Further heat transfer enhancement mechanism may therefore be necessary for the energy discharge process. •A laminated composite PCM gypsum board was numerically and experimentally evaluated.•A simple method for selecting the appropriate thicknesses of PCM layer was proposed.•Sample with 4 mm PCM layer used in the test was appropriate for natural ventilation.•The sample has large energy charge/discharge capacities and heat flux value.•The sample has remarkable temperature moderation effect.