Thermal energy management in buildings and constructions with phase change material-epoxy composites: a review

The research has shown that combining phase change materials (PCMs) in construction materials improves thermal performance and longevity of construction. PCM absorbs latent heat of phase transition isothermally and minimizes temperature fluctuation. The leakage of phase-transformed PCM can be prevented with shape-stabilizing epoxy matrix. The water resistance, high adhesion, good mechanical properties, and chemical resistance of epoxy resin are also beneficial in building and construction materials. Epoxy resin is mainly used in fabricating PCM-impregnated aggregates, structural composites, and high-performance coatings in this sector. Increased research on epoxy composites with thermal energy storage capability in recent years and their rapid commercialization pace in the building industry demands a review of the current literature. The shape-stabilized PCM-epoxy composite preparation techniques described in the literature include blending, encapsulation, impregnation, and lamination methods. Blending and microencapsulation can incorporate maximum 75% and 30% PCM by weight in the composite. However, encapsulation provides phase transition in protected environment with uniform PCM phase size. The impregnation technique is majorly used for incorporating PCMs in concrete compositions with the epoxy adhesive layer. All the aggregates present in concrete can be replaced with PCM-impregnated aggregates. However, it lowers the compressive strength of the composite. PCM incorporation improves the thermal performance of lightweight laminates. The selection of an appropriate shape-stabilization technique depends on the functional requirements of building materials. This article will help the reader to understand the design approach and advantages of PCM-epoxy composites in building materials. The review also addresses the future direction for research in PCM-epoxy composites.