Emerging materials and technologies for thermal energy storage in buildings

The building sector is a critical contributor to global resilience and human safety but is also a significant consumer of natural resources and conventional energy, contributing substantially to environmental degradation. This paper reviews novel materials and technologies for thermal energy storage in buildings, focusing on phase change materials (PCMs). PCMs, when integrated into building envelopes, enhance heat storage capacity, improve energy efficiency, and reduce electricity consumption for heating and cooling. Bio-based PCMs, such as polyethylene glycol combined with organic diatomite, show promise due to their enhanced thermal properties and stability. However, challenges like leakage and volume changes during phase transitions need to be addressed. Gypsum-based PCMs, lauric acid composites, and expanded perlite with fatty acids demonstrate potential in improving energy efficiency and thermal regulation in various climatic conditions. Despite the potential, further research is essential to optimize PCM compositions and encapsulation techniques to prevent leakage and enhance durability. This review highlights the significant role of PCMs in achieving sustainable and energy-efficient building solutions, emphasizing the need for continued development and application of these materials to reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions.