PCM thermal insulation in buildings

Abstract

This paper presents the results of a numerical and experimental study of phase change material (PCM) filled walls and roofs under real operational conditions to achieve passive thermal comfort. The numerical part of the study was based on a one‐dimensional model for the phase change problem controlled by pure conduction. Real radiation data was used to determine the external face temperature. The numerical treatment was based upon using finite difference approximations and the ADI scheme. The results obtained were compared with field measurements. The experimental set‐up consisted of a small room with movable roof and side wall. The roof was constructed in the traditional way but with the phase change material enclosed. Thermocouples were distributed across the cross section of the roof. Another roof, identical but without the PCM, was also used during comparative tests. The movable wall was also constructed as is done traditionally but with the PCM enclosed. Again, thermocouples were distributed across the wall thickness to enable measurement of the local temperatures. Another wall, identical but without the PCM, was also used during comparative tests. The PCM used in the numerical and experimental tests was composed of a mixture of two commercial grades of glycol in order to obtain the required fusion temperature range. Comparison between the simulation results and the experiments indicated good agreement. Field tests also indicated that the PCM used was adequate and that the concept was effective in maintaining the indoor temperature very close to the established comfort limits. Further economical analysis indicated that the concept could effectively help in reducing the electric energy consumption and improving the energy demand pattern. © 1997 by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Vacuum insulated panels for sustainable buildings: a review of research and applications

“…Traditional insulation materials, such as cork, mineral wool, cellulose, polystyrene or polyurethane (PUR), are capable of preserving energy to certain extents. Research also indicates use of nontraditional materials for insulation, such as wool‐hemp, date palm fibre and phase‐change materials . However, supporting the required thermal levels in buildings often require the increased thickness of these materials, which is not always feasible with respect to material economy, transportation and use.…”

PCM-Enhanced Building Components

“…A challenge for this application can be a need for significant latent heat storage capacity in place where PCM is located. Ismail and Castro (1997) presented the results of a theoretical and experimental study of PCM-filled brick walls and attic floor insulation under real operational conditions to achieve passive thermal comfort. In theoretical analysis, Ismail and Castro used a one-dimensional finite-difference model for simulations of the phase transition problem in a wall constructed of two layers of brick with the PCM core.…”

“…Following findings from earlier wall performance investigations, in 1997, Ismail and Castro (1997) presented the results of a theoretical and experimental study of the PCM-enhanced roofing insulation system under real operational conditions to achieve passive thermal comfort in a test building. The experimental setup consists of a small room with movable roof and side walls.…”

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