The use of phase change materials in wood composites for thermal energy storage in buildings

In this thesis study, form-stable wood composites (FSWC-PCMs) were produced using phase change materials (PCMs) with thermal energy storage and release capabilities. In the production process, capric acid, lauryl alcohol, and methyl palmitate were used as PCMs; wood fiber served as the porous supporting material, and a starch-based adhesive was employed as the binder. The physical properties of the prepared wood composites were evaluated through leakage tests, thickness swelling, water absorption, and density profile measurements. Chemical properties were analyzed using FTIR spectroscopy, morphological characteristics were examined by SEM analysis, and thermal properties were assessed using TGA, DSC, and IDT analyses. Acoustic performance was measured using impedance tube tests, and biological resistance was evaluated through termite and mold fungi tests. Mechanical properties were determined by internal bond strength and compression resistance tests. Leakage tests revealed that a PCM loading ratio of 40% by mass was the maximum achievable without leakage. PCM-enhanced panels demonstrated high dimensional stability, with low water absorption and minimal thickness swelling. Thermal conductivity values ranged from 0.0943 to 0.1384 W/m°K, with methyl palmitate-enhanced composites exhibiting superior latent heat storage capacities. Thermal regulation performance tests conducted under laboratory and outdoor conditions indicated that the FSWC-PCMs effectively reduced indoor temperature fluctuations and improved thermal comfort. These results highlight the potential of the developed composites to decrease heating and cooling loads in buildings, thereby contributing to significant energy savings.