This short book provides an update on various methods for incorporating phase changing
materials (PCMs) into building structures. It discusses previous research into optimizing the
integration of PCMs into surrounding walls (gypsum board and interior plaster products) trombe
walls ceramic floor tiles concrete elements (walls and pavements) windows concrete and
brick masonry underfloor heating ceilings thermal insulation and furniture an indoor
appliances. Based on the phase change state PCMs fall into three groups: solid-solid PCMs
solid-liquid PCMs and liquid-gas PCMs. Of these the solid-liquid PCMs which include organic
PCMs inorganic PCMs and eutectics are suitable for thermal energy storage. The process of
selecting an appropriate PCM is extremely complex but crucial for thermal energy storage. The
potential PCM should have a suitable melting temperature and the desirable heat of fusion and
thermal conductivity specified by the practical application. Thus the methods of measuring the
thermal properties of PCMs are key. With suitable PCMs and the correct incorporation method
latent heat thermal energy storage (LHTES) can be economically efficient for heating and
cooling buildings. However several problems need to be tackled before LHTES can reliably and
practically be applied.
