Development of a Phase Change Material-Based Thermal Energy Storage Unit

Abstract - Phase change materials (PCMs) having a large latent heat during solid-liquid phase transition are promising for thermal energy storage applications. Thermal energy storage systems with PCMs have been investigated for several building applications as they constitute a promising and sustainable method for reduction of fuel and electrical energy consumption, while maintaining a comfortable environment in the building envelope. These compounds can be incorporated into building construction materials and provide passive thermal sufficiency, or they can be used in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems, domestic hot water applications, etc. Key Words: phase change materials; thermal energy storage; energy efficiency; building applications; construction materials