ABSTRACT
One of the most beneficial thermal storage systems is a latent heat storage system in which phase change materials (PCMs) are one of the most important types. PCMs can store more heat in smaller volume and mass than sensible heat storage materials. This chapter discusses the applications of PCMs which are used in building surfaces such as walls, ceilings, floors, and windows. It focuses on the PCM building applications that are used in building surfaces and help to decrease the loads of buildings. There are two types of PCMs: organic and inorganic. Organic PCMs have congruent melting, self-nucleation, and usually they are noncorrosive. Inorganic PCMs have a less versatile range of melting points and working temperatures, but they are compatible with the range of temperatures required for construction applications between 15°C and 70°C. A eutectic PCM is a combination of two or more compounds of either organic, inorganic, or both.
