Optimization study on thermal performance of a novel dynamic phase change material wall

Abstract

A new concept of dynamic phase change material (PCM) wall structure in building envelope is proposed to enhance the passive solar energy utilization, in which PCM wall position could be exchanged with insulation layer. The thermal performance of phase change materials in buildings is related to many factors. To ensure that the novel dynamic PCM wall structure could reach its full potential, the thermal performance of the structure was numerically simulated and optimized based on different climatic conditions, room sizes and the position of PCM layer in the wall. The results indicated that the suitable PCM was different when using the novel dynamic PCM wall in different climates. Among the four cities of Harbin, Tianjin, Jinan and Guangzhou, northern cities, like Tianjin, were more suitable for using PCM A16 than southern cities. In terms of room size design, when the volume of the room remained identical, the room size design formed a certain correlation with the indoor temperature. In addition, results showed that the location of the novel PCM wall system in the wall would cause a great difference in indoor temperature, which was related to heat dissipation at different locations.