Novel gypsum based plasters with phase change material impregnated lightweight aggregates for energy efficient retrofitting

Abstract

This study developed a novel gypsum plaster comprised of high energy storage phase change material (PCM) loaded granules to reduce the amount of energy used in buildings. Changes in the mechanical and thermal properties of gypsum plasters are reported and compared with PCM-loaded cement mortars. Analysis of the energy consumption through simulation showed the amount of PCM-loaded granules and their location in the building material have a significant impact on the effectiveness of the PCM composites. The maximum energy savings of 293.8 kWh were achieved when PCMs granules were incorporated to cement blocks. However, maximum thermal comfort was achieved with PCM gypsum plaster.