Improving the performance of phase-change microcapsules for application in single spaces in hot climates

Purpose This study aims to design a high-performance building envelope system with a focus on evaluating energy savings considering the hot climate. Design/methodology/approach A thermal energy storage approach based on inorganic phase change material (PCM) was adopted to regulate both temperature and humidity conditions when added to building envelopes. The microencapsulation technology was used to form new PCM microcapsules by combining a humidity agent material with thermal conduction accelerating material to encapsulate an inorganic PCM. The relevant parameters of the thermophysical characteristics of the synthesized PCM microcapsules were tested and analyzed. Also, a numerical validation was done for the energy-saving evaluation of the new synthesized PCM microcapsules when used in a building envelope. Findings The study results showed that the new synthesized PCM microcapsules have high latent heat capacities and enhanced thermal conduction values. The simulation results conducted by the Conduction Finite Difference solution algorithm (CondFD) approved the efficiency of the proposed PCM compositions when added to a building envelope. Research limitations/implications Due to applying the PCM to the building envelope composition by the addition instead of the replacement method, the proposed design solutions are not suitable for improving the performance of lightweight construction. Originality/value This study provides a promising energy-efficient system for building envelopes. The study originality is represented in adding carbon nanoparticles as a shell material to overcome the low thermal conduction issue of PCMs. In addition to testing the impacts of different doses of the carbon shell material on the thermal performance of inorganic PCM microcapsules.