A Review of the Performance of Buildings Integrated with Phase Change Material: Opportunities for Application in Cold Climate

Abstract

Buildings generally need serious attention in order to reduce global energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. Phase Change Materials (PCMs) that change phase just above normal room temperature are a promising means of reducing cooling-energy demand, and improving thermal comfort in buildings. This paper reviews the literature from studies of the thermal performance of different types of PCM and different ways of integrating them into buildings. Based on this review, the paper closes with an investigation of the potential for application of PCMs in passive-house standard dwellings and office buildings in the Nordic climate.