Energy efficiency analysis of applying phase change materials and thermal insulation layers in a building

Abstract

Nowadays, there is a continuous increase in global energy demand, due to population growth and economic activities. One of the crucial concerns is that buildings contribute to almost 40% of the world's energy usage and greenhouse gas emissions. Enhancing the building envelope by integrating thermal insulation layers (TILs), phase change materials (PCMs), or a combination of both is a promising method to enhance energy efficiency and reduce the peak energy loads in buildings. The current research utilizes simulations to reduce the heat transfer of external wall construction, with a focus on three distinct strategies. The first strategy focuses on the effect of various materials and the arrangement of TILs, while the second strategy analyzes the consequences of different materials and the positioning of PCMs. The third strategy explores the synergistic effects of integrating TILs with PCMs to enhance the thermal efficiency of the standard residential building models, following the recommendations outlined in the NIST Technical Note 1765. The strategies were tested by evaluating the heating and cooling energy loads of a building in Kansas City throughout the year. The results show that the maximum thermal energy savings that may be achieved by applying the first, second, and third strategies in the building of external walls are 16.4%, 33.02%, and 37.88%, respectively. The corresponding cooling energy savings for the three strategies are as follows: 9.64%, 55.48%, and 26.749%.