Any substance that undergoes a physical change, such as going from a solid to a liquid or vice versa, and simultaneously absorbs and releases heat is referred to as a phase change material (PCM). Based on the phase changing temperature, this reaction usually results in the substance being either warmer or colder.
Because of this, PCMs offer heat/cooling retention and storage options, protection from adverse weather, and general energy efficiency. They are frequently used in clothes, hardware materials, and high-efficiency appliances. There are various applications of Phase Change Material, such as:
Building Applications
PCMs can be used in buildings with a narrow temperature range for thermal comfort, temperature control, and high-density heat or cold storage. Thus, if solar power is effectively stored, it may be utilized to battle the chill at night.
The potential of satisfying heating demand is made possible by using PCMs. It helps to keep a building’s temperature at a tolerable level and to store energy produced during the day.
Buildings may now have better thermal comfort and consume fewer energy thanks to the usage of micro- and macro-encapsulated PCM without considerably adding to the weight of the construction materials.
Fire And Safety Issues
Some phase change substances can float in water and are safe to use. Others include toxic substances, hydrocarbons, or other flammable materials. PCMs must thus be carefully selected and used following building and fire codes and sound technical principles.
Flammable PCMs shouldn’t be utilized in residential or other frequently used structures due to the increased risk of fire, the spread of flame and smoke, the likelihood of an explosive in containers, and liability.
Conclusion:
PCMs have yet to be extensively adopted as a technology for sustainable energy, even though there is a lot of ongoing research on the practical and efficient usage of PCMs in various domains. Few people know PCMs’ benefits; hence it is important to inform customers about PCM advantages and applications.
