Energy Storage Science and Technology ›› 2017, Vol. 6 ›› Issue (2): 302-306.doi: 10.12028/j.issn.2095-4239.2017.0002

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Thermal properties of phase change materials (PCM) and their concise calculations for passive storage applications in buildings#br#

CUI Yanqi   

  1. College of Urban Construction, Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering, Guangzhou 510225, Guangdong, China
  • Received:2017-01-04 Revised:2017-01-17 Online:2017-03-01 Published:2017-03-01

Abstract: A phase-change material (PCM) is a substance that melts and solidifies at a certain temperature range with little change of temperature, whilst releasing/absorbing a certain amount of heat called latent heat. Because of some unique properties, PCMs have become a research focus in recent years. This paper provides a brief review on some important thermal properties and behavior of PCM including latent heat, phase transition temperature and heat transfer coefficient associated with the use of PCMs. A basic model of PCM is then introduced for assessing the use of PCM in buildings. Energy saving due to the use of PCM in indoor applications is then analyzed and a concise method for the calculation of the amount of PCM for interior temperature control is presented.

Key words: phase change material, latent heat, phase-transition temperature, building energy efficiency