Developments on energy-efficient buildings using phase change materials: a sustainable building solution

• Published in: Clean technologies and environmental policy 2024-02, Vol.26 (2), p.263-289
• Main Authors: Shohan, Ahmed Ali A., Ganesan, H., Alsulamy, Saleh, Kumar, Abhinav, Almujibah, Hamad R., Petrounias, Petros, Muruga Lal Jeyan, J. V.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Building materials; Buildings; Carbon dioxide; Construction materials; Durability; Earth and Environmental Science; Energy efficiency; Energy of solution; Energy security; Energy storage; Environment; Environmental Economics; Environmental Engineering/Biotechnology; Fins; Free energy; Green buildings; Heat conductivity; Heat exchangers; Heat of solution; Heat pipes; Heat pumps; Heat transfer; Industrial and Production Engineering; Industrial Chemistry/Chemical Engineering; Melt temperature; Phase change materials; Project engineering; Research methodology; Research methods; Research projects; Review; Robustness; Solar collectors; Sustainable Development; Temperature requirements; Thermal conductivity
• ISSN: 1618-954X; 1618-9558
• DOI: 10.1007/s10098-023-02626-9

Energy security and environmental concerns are driving a lot of research projects to improve energy efficiency, make the energy infrastructure less stressed, and cut carbon dioxide (CO 2 ) emissions. One research goal is to increase the effectiveness of building heating applications using cutting-edge technologies like solar collectors and heat pumps. Another study technique uses phase change materials (PCMs), which have high energy storage densities. There still needs to be a thorough analysis of how these two research methods, namely how PCM is used to heat buildings, fit together. A thorough explanation of PCM application in buildings, specifically in walls, floors, ceilings, and glazed sections, and the critical PCM properties have been included in this article. This paper gave a summary of the research done for different applications, including the types of PCM, the forms of PCM encapsulation, and the types of PCM units used in different applications. This was done so that PCM can be used effectively in building applications. By summarizing and talking about the research methods used in different applications, we can learn more about the study’s possibilities and limits. From the study, authors conclude that the selection of appropriate PCM for a particular application requires careful consideration. The appropriate thermal conductivity, melting temperature ranges, coherence with building materials, and durability over time are a few factors that must be taken into account. Compatibility issues may arise when PCMs come into contact with other components or construction materials, which may lead to leakage or inadequate performance. Scholars can use the important conclusions and suggestions for future research on these applications to help them with their work. A list of recommendations for future work that can increase the use of PCMs in building applications include the improvement in low thermal conductivity and boost system efficiency, PCMs’ heat transfer properties can be improved, or heat transfer enhancement methods such as fins or heat pipes can be used. The next generation of studies aims to develop PCMs with enhanced robustness, durability over time, and little degradation following repetitive temperature cycling. Making PCM-based solutions commercially viable for various building projects requires robustness as well as inexpensive manufacturing procedures. Graphical abstract