Integrating phase change materials in construction materials: Critical review

Abstract

Applications of phase change materials (PCMs) have become of great interest in recent years owing to beneficial effects on the thermal, mechanical and durability properties of construction and pavement materials. PCMs can alter the thermal mass and thermal inertia of building materials, thus enhancing thermal energy storage. The effects of PCMs on cement hydration, thermal stress and shrinkage of concrete have stimulated further applications. Despite various virtues of PCMs in construction and pavement materials, their drawbacks still need concerted research efforts. Among the fundamental problems of PCMs is their risk of leakage in the melted state. Hence, several techniques have been proposed to mitigate this problem. The present study examines potential methods of incorporating PCMs into building materials, including microencapsulation, macro-encapsulation, shape-stabilization, and porous inclusion. A critical analysis of PCM applications and stabilization materials and methods in concrete is provided, hence identifying practical recommendations, research needs and current knowledge gaps.