Hygrothermal and Energy Performance Optimization on Bio-Based Envelope Integrated with PCM

Bio-based materials and phase change materials (PCMs) are currently being gradually noticed and emphasized as passive building envelopes. This study focuses on the effect of PCM placement and phase transition temperature on hygrothermal and energy performance. Systematic studies reveal that placing PCM with a phase transition temperature of 24-28 °C in the scenario PCM middle provides considerable results, reducing the summer temperature and relative humidity amplitude, heat load and moisture load by 5%, 0.03%, 8% and 5.8%, respectively. Besides, performance is further optimized with the scenario PCM middle of phase transition temperature of 26-30 °C, with the reductions in temperature and relative humidity fluctuations, heat load and moisture load by 88.6%, 85.4%, 69.65% and 69.63%, respectively. Overall, strategic PCM placement and phase transition temperature improve building energy efficiency and comfort, offering valuable insights for designing bio-based concrete structures.