Thermal Performance Investigation of Phase Change Materials in Concrete Blocks Masonry

Mortars containing phase change materials (PCMs) were tested to determine their applicability to the thermal control of buildings. One mini-wall prototype was coated with mortar without PCM, whereas the three other prototypes were coated with mortar added with 5%, 10%, and 15% PCM. All specimens were subjected to visual analysis, scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy dispersive X-ray analysis, and differential scanning calorimetry. Thermal analysis was conducted using K-type thermocouples under irradiation by 1000 W halogen lamps. Compared with the other samples, the sample containing 15% PCM required more water in the mixture to achieve a good consistency. Compared with the reference mortar containing 0% PCM, specimens containing 5%, 10%, and 15% PCM showed greater thermal delay. The results of this study reveal that the use of PCM in buildings might lead to significant energy savings.

Keywords:
Thermal performance; Addition; Shrinkage; Concrete blocks; Masonry