Development of building materials by using micro-encapsulated phase change material

Abstract

Micro-encapsulated phase change material (Micro-PCM) could be used for high density thermal energy storage and also for PCM-building materials. Micro-PCM was prepared by in-situ polymerization at 60°C after the emulsifying step by using 5 wt% Styrene Maleic Anhydride (SMA) solution as an emulsifier. The particle size of Micro-PCM decreased and the size uniformity was improved with an increase of the mixing intensity during emulsification. The average diameter of Micro-PCM was 5-20 μm. The thermal fluctuation of PCM-building materials such as gypsum and olefin film mixed with Micro-PCM was smoother and smaller than typical building materials without PCM.