Modeling and Validation of the Enthalpy-Temperature Curve for Phase Change Materials

Abstract

Thermo-dynamical studies have proven that introducing phase change materials (PCM) to the building’s envelope could decrease the heat transfer exchange rate and maintain the inside thermal comfort for long periods. Among all types of PCM applications in the building’s envelope, the cement-plaster is the most cost-effective. The composite PCM-plaster material was formed by mixing predefined mass percentages of PCM microcapsules with local cement, sand, and water. This paper aims to establish a direct solution for the enthalpy-temperature variations for the PCM composite material. This solution will enable to study the effect of the composite material on buildings' energy loads. The obtained model has been also validated against experimentally tested samples and results were in complete agreement. This model will enable researchers to obtain the correct heat response when the envelope of the building is subjected to different external weather solicitations.