Simplified Thermal Performance Evaluation of a PCM-Filled Triple-Glazed Window under Arctic Climate Conditions

Lucrezia Ravasio,Raymond Riise,Rajnish Kaur Calay

doi:10.3390/en14238068

Abstract

This paper evaluates the thermal performance of a triple-glazed glass window filled with a phase-change material (PCM) compared to the performance of a traditional triple-glazed window with air gaps. The chosen PCM was paraffin wax. A mathematical model to simulate heat transfer within the system was presented. A commercially available software, COMSOL Multiphysics, was used to numerically solve the governing equations. The analysis was carried out for the representative days of different seasons using three types of paraffin wax (5, 10, and 15) that have different melting-temperature ranges. Particularly, the study considers the unique climatic conditions of the Arctic region. Results showed that by integrating a PCM into the cavity of triple-glazing, thermal performance during summer season of the window was enhanced, while for spring and autumn thermal performance was affected by the type of paraffin selected. The thermal performance of glass windows during winter did not change with PCM integration.

Highlights

Introduction under Arctic Climate ConditionsThe urgent climate change issues due to the intense depletion of natural resource are highlighting, more than ever before, the need to reduce the impact of human activities on the planet
Results showed that by integrating a phase-change material (PCM) into the cavity of triple-glazing, thermal performance during summer season of the window was enhanced, while for spring and autumn thermal performance was affected by the type of paraffin selected
The thermal performance of glass windows during winter did not change with PCM integration

Summary

Introduction

Introduction under Arctic Climate ConditionsThe urgent climate change issues due to the intense depletion of natural resource are highlighting, more than ever before, the need to reduce the impact of human activities on the planet. It is essential to take action on different levels to minimize the carbon footprint of the whole construction sector, and achieve the ambitious goal of a net-zero emissions society by 2050 These strategies mainly involve the decarbonization of power production, through the transition to renewable energy sources, along with reduction of material-lifecycle carbon emissions, by applying a circular economy model. These initiatives should be accompanied by an upgraded building code, market regulations and incentives for the enhanced energy efficiency of buildings. Harsh Arctic climate conditions, along with long distances and small communities, represent additional challenges to the decarbonization of the region, due to the significant amount of energy needed for heating buildings and transportation [3]

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