Influence of the Type of Phase Change Materials Microcapsules on the Properties of Lime‐Gypsum Thermal Mortars

Abstract

In a society with a high growth rate and increased standards of comfort arises the need to minimize the currently high energy consumption by taking advantage of renewable energy sources. The mortars with incorporation of phase change materials (PCM) have the ability to regulate the temperature inside buildings, contributing to the thermal comfort and reduction of the use of heating and cooling equipment, using only the energy supplied by the sun. However, the incorporation of PCMs in mortars modifies its characteristics. The main purpose of this study was the production and characterization of mortars with incorporation of two different PCMs. Specific properties of two PCMs, such as particle size, shape, and enthalpy, were determined, as well as the properties of the fresh and hardened state of the mortars. The proportion of PCM was 0, 10, 20, and 30% of the total mass of the solid particles. In order to minimize some problems associated with shrinkage and consequent cracking of the mortars, the incorporation of polyamide fibers and superplasticizer was tested. It was possible to observe that the incorporation of PCMs in mortars caused differences in properties such as compressive strength, flexural strength, and shrinkage. Even though the incorporation of PCM microcapsules resulted in an increase in the shrinkage, it was possible observe a significant improvement in mechanical properties.

Ranking procedure based on mechanical, durability and thermal behavior of mortars with incorporation of phase change materials

“…The selection of the mortars takes into account some previous work (10,11,(19)(20)(21). Mortars were based on the following binders: aerial lime, hydraulic lime, gypsum and cement.…”

“…The incorporation of phase change materials in mortars for coating interior walls allows us to obtain buildings with higher energetic efficiency. Therefore, it is important that the construction industry is innovative and accepts new solutions for solving problems with several years (4). These mortars can be applied not only in the construction of new buildings, but also in rehabilitation operations.…”

“…These should be supported and easily amortized by the user. It may also be noted that the economic benefits of reduced energy consumption and lag times for lower demand are evident, and can be achieved with the use of PCM (4,10,11).…”

Comportamento térmico de argamassas com incorporação de Materiais de Mudança de Fase (PCM) no clima português

“…A seleção dos materiais, tais como ligantes e microcápsulas de PCM, teve em consideração trabalhos anteriores [21][22][23]. .…”

“…As questões ambientais encontram-se relacionadas com a redução da exploração de combustíveis fósseis e com a diminuição da necessidade de utilização de equipamentos de climatização. Por ultimo, os benefícios econômicos encontram-se relacionados com a redução do consumo de energia e o desfasamento dos consumos para horas de menor procura, diminuindo desta forma os custos de operação do edifício [6].…”