Novel Sustainable Polymer-Based Phase Change Materials (PCMs) for Mortars Based on Different Binders for the Energy Efficiency of Buildings Located in Different Climatic Regions

Abstract

A possible solution to reduce the consumption of fossil fuel and energy demand to power heating and cooling devices is represented by Phase Change Materials (PCMs). They can absorb, store and release energy according to their physical state that changes with the environmental temperature. In this work, novel eco-sustainable PCMs were developed through the form-stable method. Through this process, it was possible to create composite PCMs consisting of a natural inert matrix (i.e., a very porous stone obtained from processing waste) and an eco-friendly polymer, i.e., Poly-Ethylene Glycol (PEG). The composite PCMs were used to replace aggregates in mortars based on different binders (i.e., hydraulic lime, and cement). A complete characterization was performed on the new PCMs assessing their thermal stability and thermal efficiency. The study of the properties of the PCM-based mortars, in their fresh and hardened states, allowed to identify those with suitable mechanical properties. These latter were, then, subjected to a further investigation to assess their thermal behavior in response to different climatic loads. Encouraging results were achieved that allowed to establish the effectiveness of the novel PCMs in thermo-regulating an indoor environment.