Abstract
A characteristic feature of lightweight constructions is their low thermal mass which causes high internal temperature fluctuations that require high heating and cooling demand throughout the year. Phase change materials (PCMs) are effective in providing thermal inertia to low-thermal-mass buildings. This paper aims to analyse the thermal behaviour of two proposed lightweight buildings designed for homeless people and to investigate the potential benefit achievable through the use of different types of PCM in the temperate climatic conditions of Christchurch, New Zealand. For this purpose, over 300 numerical simulations were conducted using DesignBuilder® simulation software. The bulk of the simulations were carried out under the assumption that the whole opaque building envelope is equipped with PCM. The results showed significant energy saving and comfort enhancement through the application of PCMs. The integration of PCM in single-structure components led to substantial energy savings between 19% and 27% annually. However, occupant behaviour in terms of ventilation habits, occupancy of zones, etc. remains one of the biggest challenges in any simulation work due to insufficient data.
Highlights
Buildings are necessary energy sinks and constitute one of the leading sectors of energy consumption globally
Of the study, an in-depth analysis of the main generated simulation results is presented in terms of the following criteria: the benefit of the application of Phase change materials (PCMs) on an annual scale based on the heating demand and the comfort level within the building, as well as the marginal benefit, the building performance, and the effect of PCM in different locations of the building
There was no identifiable case where one PCM had the most beneficial effects on either comfort or energy saving for every sequence analysed
Summary
Buildings are necessary energy sinks and constitute one of the leading sectors of energy consumption globally. The location of the country is the reason for the intense fluctuations in weather conditions from a mild winter North Island to a harsh and chilled winter South Island similar to conditions in Europe. This calls for serious concerns, especially on the South Island, where Christchurch is one of the worst affected. The 2011 earthquake resulted in massive destruction of over
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