Lifecycle analysis of finishing products enhanced with phase changing materials

Abstract

Applicability of phase changing materials (PCMs) in buildings by their integration into the structure of finishing materials structure in the form of particles is especially high as a mean of providing heat-insulation during summer. Materials containing particles with phase changing behaviour are successfully applied at objects with large daylight areas, focused on active utilization of sunlight energy, among others. Utilization of PCM components allows saving considerable amount of energy due to possible refusal of air-conditioning while providing heat-insulation during summer. The paper deals with the lifecycle analysis of gypsum-based finishing products. Main challenges with respect to the lifecycle of products with PCM components are the preservation of their longevity as well as their potential for reuse/recycling. Through the example of PCM-enhanced plaster covering and gypsum plasterboard factors affecting the preservation of the advantageous thermal properties of PCMs over extended periods were studied, along with options of refining materials and products containing different amounts of PCM components. The results of the research allow comparing similar materials with the use of PCM components and without them as well as analyzing the life cycle related environmental performance of PCM-enhanced finishing materials.

Mechanical, Thermal, and Fire Properties of Composite Materials Based on Gypsum and PCM

“…There are many materials used as PCM [ 4 ]; microencapsulated PCM was used in this research. Zhuk [ 19 ] found in a lifecycle analysis that gypsum plaster with microencapsulated PCM could withstand over 10,000 temperature load cycles without losing its properties, which corresponds to more than 30 years of minimal service life according to RAL-GZ 896 [ 20 ]. PCM has the function of an aggregate in the mixture.…”