Energy-Efficient Buildings: Phase Change Materials Approach

Abstract

The alarming rise in temperatures in recent years has increased the energy required to maintain the thermal comfort of building occupants. Phase change materials (PCMs) can store thermal energy and reduce this energy consumption. This paper summarizes the current developments in using PCMs in building construction. We discuss the working principle, the classification of PCMs, technologies to use PCMs at a material level in construction, the current problems involving PCM usage and their possible remedies, applications of PCMs at the structural level, and the future scope of research.