Development of a novel composite phase change material based paints and mortar for energy storage applications in buildings

Abstract

The research work proposes the characterization of eutectic fatty acid mixture [Lauric and Palmitic acid (LA-PA)] centered form-stable phase change material (FSPCM) incorporated with expanded perlite (EP) particles for the application of thermal energy storage (TES) in buildings. The objective of the proposed work is to understand the strength, durability and thermal performance of FSPCM based paints and mortar which are intended to be used for application in buildings. Expanded graphite was added at 1 %, 3 % and 5 % to the eutectic mixture of LA-PA to determine the optimum percentage required to prepare the composite PCM. First, the developed form stable composite PCM was characterized using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermal conductivity (TC), scanning electron microscope (SEM) and thermo-gravimetric analysis (TGA) to understand their physical characteristics. Results revealed the presence of LA-PA eutectic in the pores of EP through physical interaction. Moreover, these results were used to determine the optimal PCM composition for usage in buildings to achieve energy savings. The optimized composite PCM synthesized is added to cement mortar and measured for mechanical and durability properties. In addition, an FSPCM-based paint was by adding the PCM as a pigment along with other paint forming ingredients. The developed FSPCM-based paint was further evaluated for its durability and thermal efficiency.