New graphical method for assessing the integration of phase change materials into building envelope

Abstract

One technique to reduce the demand for cooling load in buildings is inserting phase change materials (PCM) into building envelopes. In this study, a new method is performed to facilitate the selection of the type of PCM. The hypothesis is tested through a case of a traditional wall in Cairo, Egypt. The merit of each case is assessed based on the peak and average heat flow to the studied room. The outcome of this study is presented in the form of selection graphs to facilitate the selection of PCM type with no need for detailed calculations. Guidelines were drawn from the results and are directly reflected in the graphical representation. The average load is represented in one graph that depends only on the thermal resistance of the added layer. On the other hand, the peak load could be estimated through two graphs. The graphs combine the effect of the melting temperature, the latent heat capacity, the sensible heat capacity, and the thermal resistance of the PCM.